Abstract
Background and Objectives: Many individuals with anxiety difficulties present with co-occurring anxiety disorders yet no evidence-based guidelines exist on how to treat this presentation. The present study investigated how Australian psychologists approach treating co-occurring anxiety disorders. Methods: A total of 169 psychologists practicing in Australia undertook an online survey consisting of open-questions relating to the treatment of DSM-IV anxiety disorder diagnoses and reported practice in relation to two clinical vignettes. Participant responses were coded using a directed content analysis approach. Results: The majority of psychologists reported utilising cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) interventions in the treatment of single and co-occurring anxiety disorders but not specific evidence-based treatment guides or protocols. The majority of the psychologists surveyed reported that they adopt a transdiagnostic approach to addressing co-occurring anxiety disorders. Conclusions: Psychologists typically do not follow a specific treatment guide in the treatment of anxiety disorders and judge a transdiagnostic approach incorporating CBT techniques as the best way to treat comorbidity. More effort may be needed to disseminate evidence-based interventions for anxiety disorders and for authors of empirically supported treatments to provide clear guidelines regarding treating co-occurring anxiety disorders.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 480-490 |
Number of pages | 11 |
Journal | Australian Psychologist |
Volume | 52 |
Issue number | 6 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - Dec 2017 |
Keywords
- anxiety/anxiety disorders
- cognitive behaviour therapy
- comorbid
- evidence-based treatment
- psychological therapy
- transdiagnostic