To read the full OHTAC Recommendation Report for this topic, contact our Health Innovation team using the contact form to request a digital copy.

Cognitive behavioural therapy (or “CBT”) is a form of psychotherapy that has proven effective in treating major depression and anxiety disorders. However, it can often be difficult for people to access this therapy because of long wait times, the cost of sessions, and travel time to get to sessions. Cognitive behavioural therapy delivered via the internet is an option that may be more accessible for some people.

Internet-delivered cognitive behavioural therapy (or “iCBT”) involves following a series of structured sessions that people can access using a computer, tablet, or smartphone. It may be delivered with guidance from a regulated health care professional or without guidance, in which people work through the program on their own.

This health technology assessment looked at the safety, effectiveness, and value for money of guided and unguided internet-delivered cognitive behavioural therapy for the treatment of adults with mild to moderate major depression or anxiety disorders. We also looked at the budget impact of publicly funding internet-delivered cognitive behavioural therapy and the preferences, values, and experiences of people with mild to moderate major depression or anxiety disorders.

Ontario Health, in collaboration with the Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health (CADTH), has undertaken a health technology assessment to assess the clinical benefits, cost-effectiveness, and patient experiences with Internet-delivered cognitive behavioural therapy for major depression and anxiety disorders.