A proof-of-concept study of the benefits of a single-session of tinnitus instruction and counselling with homework on tinnitus

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this study was to provide proof-of-concept of a single session of tinnitus instruction and counselling with and without homework.

Design: A mixed-method design using questionnaires and thematic evaluation of qualitative data was implemented.

Study sample: Sixteen participants received instruction in a single, one-to-one counselling session; eight participants additionally undertook homework consisting of either positive visualisation augmented by sound or a workbook of written and drawing activities supporting the instruction provided in the counselling session. All participants completed questionnaires just before and 3 weeks after the intervention, half were interviewed 3 weeks following the intervention.

Results: Average tinnitus functional index (TFI) scores were 45 (SD 25) before and 29 (SD 23) following counselling, with a change of 4.8 or greater recorded in 75% and change of 13 points or greater in 50% of participants. Both counselling and counselling with homework showed similar changes in the TFI. This finding was supported by the qualitative analysis from which a model consisting of the themes of counselling benefit, content, application and homework benefit was derived.

Conclusions: This study provides proof-of-concept of a single tinnitus instruction and counselling session, based on an ecological model of tinnitus.

Keywords:

• Tinnitus
• counselling
• instruction
• therapy

Disclosure statement

Dr Searchfield is director of the University of Auckland’s Hearing and Tinnitus Clinic and Tinnitus Tunes an online subscription-based tinnitus resource. The other authors have no conflicts of interest to report.

Additional information

Funding

Monica Boone and Johanna Bensam received funding assistance from the University of Auckland, School of Population Health student research fund.