Cognitive Enhancement Therapy (CET) comprises three integral components: individual psychotherapy, computerized neurocognitive training in pairs, and skills group. Among these, mastering the remediation of neurocognition through computerized training poses a notable challenge for clinicians, particularly in integrating this technology into their clinical practices.
As a senior CET supervisor, I find this challenge intriguing and somewhat paradoxical. Clinicians routinely use various technological devices in both their professional and personal lives, such as desktops, laptops, tablets, smartphones, and even video game consoles. They leverage these tools for tasks ranging from sending emails and writing clinical notes to preparing presentations and even unwinding with video games during downtime. Despite their proficiency and familiarity with contemporary technology, I have found that clinicians often exhibit anxiety, hesitancy, clumsiness, and fear when asked to incorporate this expertise into traditional psychotherapy techniques like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for Psychosis or Interpersonal Therapy. The same concerns can arise in relation to the technology component of CET.
Common responses during supervision sessions include expressions like "I am afraid of breaking the software" or "I am nervous about using the software, and I will break my patient's cognitions." Addressing these concerns necessitates a three-pronged approach to training and supervision:
- Building Clinical Confidence: Focus on hands-on practice, continuous education, embracing challenges, and reflective experiences. By consistently engaging with technology, clinicians can enhance their skills and decision-making, fostering confidence in its application.
- Challenging Automatic Beliefs: Clinicians often harbor automatic beliefs, such as the fear of breaking software. Encourage them to intentionally explore and potentially "break" the software to dispel these unfounded fears. Simultaneously, supervisors can work on fostering self-awareness, reframing negativity, promoting positive affirmations, and encouraging constructive problem-solving.
- Dispelling False Myths: Eliminate misconceptions that technology cannot be a valuable part of treatment. Supervisors should emphasize hands-on experiences and highlight the practical benefits of integrating technology into traditional approaches, fostering a deeper understanding and confidence in combining the two seamlessly.
By addressing these aspects, clinicians can overcome apprehensions and integrate technology effectively into their therapeutic practices, ultimately enhancing the quality and efficacy of Cognitive Enhancement Therapy.
Luis R. Sandoval, Ph.D.