Delivering computerized Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for child and adolescent depression and anxiety

Although the first computerized cognitive behavioral therapy (cCBT) programs for children were developed over a decade ago, there is comparatively little evidence to detail their efficacy. Systematic reviews consistently conclude that cCBT is promising although little is known about efficacy with younger children, in low- and middle-income countries, or about the role of moderators such as therapist guidance, age, symptom severity, and program adherence. Well-designed, appropriately powered trials comparing the longer-term benefits of cCBT with active interventions in routine care are needed. This will help to clarify how cCBT should be provided to improve access for children and young people to evidence-based interventions.