Evaluation of the learning platform TF-CBT Web for psychotherapeutic practitioners: Online training for evidence-based treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder in children and adolescents

Abstract

Background: Web-based training can be an effective way for psychotherapists to acquire knowledge about interventions. Manualized trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT) to treat posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in children and adolescents is currently the intervention with the best evidence base. A web-based training program designed to promote the dissemination of TF-CBT is TF-CBT Web. A cost-free German language version has been available since 2018 and comprises 12 learning modules. Objective: The aim of this article is to describe which target group uses such a form of continuing education, based on the characteristics of psychotherapists who have registered with the German TF-CBT website. It was investigated whether participation in the training program leads to a gain in knowledge of the contents and how users evaluate the opportunities and barriers of this learning platform. Material and methods: Users of the training program provided demographic information at the time of registration and completed a knowledge test on the content of the module before and after all 12 modules. After completion, perceived opportunities and barriers could be given in a free text feedback. Results: The comparison of means showed a significant increase in knowledge by completing the 12 training modules (d = 0.18–1.16). Of the users 38% completed the learning program. Overall, the learning program and the materials provided were rated positively. Conclusion: Using the example of TF-CBT Web, the results support the effectiveness of web-based training programs for dissemination of knowledge in the field of psychotherapeutic treatment methods. Future research should evaluate the actual implementation of the methods taught into clinical practice.