Cognitive behavioural therapy increases re-employment of job seeking worker's compensation clients

Abstract

Introduction: The aim of this study was to determine whether cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) would enhance employment outcomes in worker's compensation clients who were seeking employment.

Methods: Participants were randomly assigned to a standard job search assistance group that met for 4 hours/week for four weeks, or to a group that received standard job search assistance for 4 hours/week for the first two weeks and CBT for 4 hours/week for the next two weeks. Depression, Anxiety and Stress scores were measured prior to and on completion of the intervention, and employment outcomes were assessed at four- and ten-week follow-up.

Results: Affective states decreased and employment was found more rapidly after CBT than after standard job search assistance.

Conclusion: These findings indicate that CBT has a useful role in the rehabilitation of people on worker's compensation who are seeking employment.