Are low-intensity CBT interventions effective and meaningful for the Latino community in the UK?

Abstract

In the UK, low-intensity cognitive-behavioural therapy (LICBT) is offered as cost-effective intervention for anxiety and depression in primary care. Whilst research with Latino migrants in the USA highlights the suitability of CBT interventions with this group, these findings may not be generalisable to the UK, due to different sociopolitical circumstances. This mixed-method study explores the effectiveness and meaning of an LICBT group-intervention for Latino migrants in London. Eight participants attended a four-week workshop on anxiety management in Spanish, and pre- and post-intervention scores in CORE-OM, PHQ-9 and GAD-7 were compared. Additionally, focus groups about the intervention were thematically analysed. Although not statistically significant, a trend towards decreasing anxiety levels was identified (p = 0.06). Three of the four themes generated from participants' analysis of their experience are summarised and discussed. These include positive aspects of the intervention and its limitations. Whilst valuing LICBT interventions, participants considered further input necessary. Potential clinical implications as well as recommendations for further research are discussed.

Keywords:

• low intensity CBT
• Latinos
• psychotherapy
• culture

Acknowledgements

The authors are grateful to all community organisations who assisted with the recruitment and facilitation of the groups (i.e., IRMO, LAWRS and MRC) and the people who took part in the study.

Notes on contributors

Dr Jose E. Lopez completed his doctorate in Clinical Psychology at the University of East London. He currently works as a Clinical Psychologist in a primary care psychology service and coordinates the mental health provision of a London-based Latin American community organisation.

Dr Melinda Rees is a Team Manager in iCOPE – the Increasing Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT) Service in Islington, London. She completed her DClin Psy at the University of East London 11 years ago and has also studied CBT at Postgraduate level at Oxford. She has a particular clinical interest in trauma and has worked in Primary Care across many cultural groups.

Dr Maria Castro is Senior Lecturer and Academic Tutor for the Professional Doctorate in Clinical Psychology at the University of East London. Previously, she was an NHS Clinical Psychologist in Older People's Services. Maria's core interests are in ethical, creative and collaborative praxis, particularly with people and communities largely marginalized.

Notes

1. This last theme, not included in this article, will be published in future work.