Virtual Training for Mental Illness
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
The trial aims to test a virtual training program for psychotherapists to enhance their skills in managing the therapeutic alliance (relationship with the patient) and addressing diversity issues. By offering this training online, the researchers aim to make it accessible to therapists unable to attend in-person workshops, particularly those outside major cities. The trial will compare three groups: therapists receiving virtual training, those receiving traditional training, and those with no additional training. Eligible participants include licensed therapists in North America who are open to taking new patients, as well as patients who have recently started therapy and can commit to six sessions over six months. As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity for patients to contribute to innovative research that could improve therapy accessibility and effectiveness.
Do I need to stop my current medications to join the trial?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It focuses on psychotherapy, so it's best to discuss your medications with the study team or your therapist.
What prior data suggests that this virtual training program is safe for psychotherapists?
Research has shown that virtual training programs can be safe and effective for mental health care. Studies have found that these online methods can achieve results as good as or even better than traditional in-person methods. For example, digital literacy training has helped individuals with serious mental health issues improve their skills without negative effects.
In terms of safety, virtual training programs typically focus on teaching skills and knowledge without involving physical procedures. This makes them generally easy to manage, as they don't require medication or medical procedures. Since this study examines a virtual training method, the risks are likely low, especially compared to more traditional medical treatments.
Although specific data on the safety of this particular virtual training program is limited, its nature suggests it is quite safe.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about the Virtual Training Program for mental illness because it offers a new way to provide professional development asynchronously. Unlike traditional therapy methods, which typically involve synchronous, in-person sessions, this program allows for flexible learning that participants can fit into their schedules. Additionally, it includes consultation, which means participants still receive personalized guidance despite the program's virtual nature. This innovative approach has the potential to make mental health training more accessible and convenient, potentially reaching a broader audience and enhancing the skills of mental health professionals in a more efficient manner.
What evidence suggests that this virtual training program is effective for improving therapeutic alliance and patient mental health outcomes?
Research has shown that online mental health training can effectively improve well-being. Studies have found that virtual training programs can reduce anxiety and boost confidence. For instance, after a short online course, participants reported feeling less anxious and having higher self-esteem. Another study discovered that online relaxation and education improved mental health, with benefits lasting up to 12 weeks. e-Learning in therapy also makes mental health support more accessible and affordable, which is promising for therapists.
In this trial, participants will join one of three groups: the Virtual Training Program, an asynchronous virtual training professional development program including consultation; Training as Usual, involving synchronous virtual workshop professional development including consultation; or No Training, where participants will receive therapy as usual. These findings suggest that virtual training could help therapists improve patient care by better managing relationships and understanding diverse needs.678910Who Is on the Research Team?
Giorgio A Tasca, PhD
Principal Investigator
University of Ottawa
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for licensed psychotherapists in North America and their patients with mental illness. It aims to improve therapists' skills virtually, focusing on therapeutic alliance issues, including those related to diversity. Therapists living outside urban areas who may lack access to advanced training are especially encouraged.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Training
Therapists complete either a self-paced virtual course with consultation or a synchronous virtual workshop with consultation
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after training
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Virtual Training Program
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Ottawa
Lead Sponsor
Sinai Health System
Collaborator
University of Toronto
Collaborator