Disseminating Behavioural Activation for Depression via Online Training: Preliminary Steps

Background: Despite the availability of evidence-based treatments for depression, large gaps exist between empirical research and clinical practice. Aims: To make preliminary steps toward the dissemination of Behavioural Activation (BA) via online training by examining clinicians' interest in learning BA via online training and the effects of a preliminary version of BA online training. Method: In study 1, practising clinicians (n = 540) completed a survey that assessed attitudes towards learning BA using an online training format. In study 2, we conducted a small, pilot randomized controlled trial (n = 46) to examine preliminary efficacy of teaching BA principles and treatment strategies with a precursor version of BA online training. Results: Study findings suggest that clinicians have interest in learning about BA via online training and that clinicians participating in BA online training evidence high satisfaction and significant gains in self-efficacy using BA and knowledge of BA terms and concepts. Conclusions: These results support the importance of efforts to disseminate BA and the viability of online training as an easily accessible and affordable training option.