Patients’ experiences of a computerised self-help program for treating depression – a qualitative study of Internet mediated cognitive behavioural therapy in primary care

AbstractObjective: The objective of this study was to explore primary care patients’ experiences of Internet mediated cognitive behavioural therapy (iCBT) depression treatment.Design: Qualitative study. Data were collected from focus group discussions and individual interviews.Setting: Primary care.Method: Data were analysed by systematic text condensation by Malterud.Subjects: Thirteen patients having received iCBT for depression within the PRIM-NET study.Main outcome measures: Analysis presented different aspects of patients’ experiences of iCBT.Results: The informants described a need for face-to-face meetings with a therapist. A therapist who performed check-ups and supported the iCBT process seemed important. iCBT implies that a responsibility for the treatment is taken by the patient, and some patients felt left alone, while others felt well and secure. This was a way to work in privacy and freedom with a smoothly working technology although there was a lack of confidence and a feeling of risk regar...