Smartphones are one of the most ubiquitous devices of the last few years. On a college campus like Murray State University, this rings even truer. Phones now hold a wealth of information and tools at the user’s fingertips, from internet browsers to music to dating and lifestyle applications.
Dr. Michael Bordieri of the MSU Department of Psychology says there are even thousands of apps for something most people wouldn’t expect: therapy. He speaks with Tracy Ross on Sounds Good about the recent trend.
Bordieri says these apps represent a shift in how the world views therapy. What used to be hour-long sessions now include flexible and creative treatment for those struggling with psychological issues.
He says while traditional therapy has its place and no one has yet created a perfect virtual therapist, smart phone applications could make a difference for patients suffering from low-intensity issues or for those looking to add onto prior treatment.
Speaking on the science behind these applications, Bordieri says it can be tricky.
“It’s not clear that what’s popular or what’s advertised matches what the evidence says,” Bordieri said.
He cites an example from 2013. A study that examined more than 1500 apps created for depression found just 32 of them were backed by studies.
However, Bordieri says there is evidence that supports the benefits of therapeutic apps. For an example, preliminary data from a smoking-cessation app called SmartQuit looks promising.
Then there are apps from the National Institute of Health and the Department of Veterans Affairs designed to help veterans with psychological issues. There’s promising data here as well.
Bordieri says it’s difficult to identify which psychological ailments respond better to app treatment, as there isn’t sufficient evidence just yet. That question could be answered in the next few years.
Overall, Bordieri says testing these therapeutic apps is a priority. If successful, they can drastically widen the reach of psychologists, as anyone can download an app compared to scheduling an in-person session. In conjunction with traditional therapy sessions, this could shape mental healthcare going forward.
