Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Adapted Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT): Role of Therapy Process Variables

Anxiety and depression are common after a traumatic brain injury (TBI) but it is unclear whether associated cognitive impairments impede gains from psychological therapy. This study aimed to investigate 1) how therapists adapt Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) to meet the needs of people with TBI and 2) which factors impact capacity to benefit from CBT adapted for TBI. Findings identified several therapist behaviours that can help to enhance treatment effectiveness. These included comprehensive facilitation of client engagement with therapy homework and compensating for poorer executive functioning. This is the first study to evaluate CBT in-session processes with a TBI sample.