iCBT is a great tool that psychologists can use with their clients

I have been reviewing iCBT for my mobile apps blog for psychologists for some times now, and I must admit that i am impressed. The iPhone application is very user friendly and I suspect the iPad version is even easier to navigate. From a clinical viewpoint, the app is appropriate for individuals struggling with anxiety, depression and a host of other problems where cognitive distortions are a the core of the persons difficulties.

This is a good tool for psychologists or other therapists using cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) in their practice. It allows clients to continue their therapy outside the clinic. In my opinion, it reinforces the gains obtained during sessions and facilitates generalization. This app is not a miracle cure! It is designed to make individuals work on their difficulties. It works best when the individual knows about CBT or when directly working with a therapist. In fact, this app is based on a popular book by Dr. David Burns (Feeling good handbook), which can be found in many book stores for approximately $15.00.

When you first start the application you are automatically brought to the iCBT events page. This is where you can help your clients put their thoughts into words. An example is provided. It reads, "I said something negative about my boss to a coworker, now Im sure Ill get fired". Once you click on the event, a new page appears. The client is then able to label and rate the intensity of his or her feelings and write down negative thoughts. The rationalize button will bring up all the negative thoughts associated with the original event. Clicking on these will bring you to a final page, where the client will be prompted to go through a list of distortions such as, "A mental filter, blind to the positive, negative labelling etc.". A definition of each distortion is provided by pressing, "description".

Sylvain Roy about iCBT, v2.1.1