Efficiency of computerized cognitive behavioral therapy versus clinical intervention for the treatment of major depression

  Introduction: In recent years computerized therapies like computerized cognitive behavioral therapy have helped the therapists. Some advantages of these interventions are reducing the costs and time and spreading the use of psychiatrist interventions as well. Thus, the aim of this study was to explore the efficiency of cognitive behavioral therapy in three methods of web-based intervention, software package and clinical intervention in comparison with untreated in major depression.   Materials and Methods: The sample consisted of 68 students who were selected using availability sampling from students with major depression criterion who were seeking treatment at online and presence consultation center of University of Mohaghegh Ardabili (Iran), and then randomly assigned in three experimental groups and one control group. The instrument consisted of beck depression inventory and structured clinical interview for DSM disorders.   Results: The results of this study showed that in comparison to three different methods of cognitive behavioral therapy (web-based intervention, software package and clinical intervention) supported the more effective role of clinical intervention.   Conclusion: Computerized therapies present effectiveness learning experiences and result in increasing fast access of therapists and patients to determined therapeutic goals. Results of this research indicate that computerized cognitive behavioral therapy is a feasible and effective intervention in treatment of major depression.