Predictors of response to brief CBT in patients with cardiopulmonary conditions

Abstract

Objective: This study examined predictors of treatment outcome in a randomized controlled trial of brief cognitive-behavioral therapy (bCBT) for patients with a cardiopulmonary condition and comorbid, clinically significant symptoms of depression and/or anxiety.

Method: Only those who completed outcome assessments in the bCBT arm were studied (n = 132), to provide information about predictors of change in psychological symptoms. Multivariable linear regressions were conducted with baseline depression and anxiety symptoms, functional limitations, coping, self-efficacy, number of treatment sessions attended, and working alliance as potential predictors of change from pre- to postintervention on the dependent variables, depression [Patient Health Questionniare-9] and anxiety [Beck Anxiety Inventory]).

Results: Significant predictors of improvement in depression and anxiety included baseline mental health symptoms, physical health functional impairment, and self-efficacy. Coping, working alliance, and number of sessions attended were not associated with change in depression or anxiety.

Conclusion: Patients with greater physical functioning limitations and lower self-efficacy may experience less change in depression and anxiety during brief CBT. Future research should examine how to boost treatment effectiveness for patients with these characteristics. (PsycINFO Database Record

Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01149772.