Effectiveness of a Cognitive Behavioral Coaching Program Delivered via Video in Real World Settings

Background: Many employees experience high levels of stress in the workplace, which negatively impact their productivity and well-being. Effective stress management interventions exist, but are inaccessible due to insufficient numbers of mental health providers, long waiting times to initiate care, high out-of-pocket cost of care, and stigma related to receiving psychotherapy. Introduction: The purpose of this study was to test the efficacy, in real-world circumstances, of a structured, cognitive behavioral coaching (CBC) program delivered through video or telephone. Materials and Methods: Retrospective data on 289 subjects who had sought support for emotional health through a behavioral health benefit offered through employers were examined. Changes in perceived stress and well-being over the course of the program were measured using the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) and Warwick–Edinburgh Mental Well-being Scale (WEMWBS), respectively. Rates of reliable change and satisfaction with the coaching program were also assessed. Results: Scores on both the PSS and WEMWBS improved between baseline and follow-up. Approximately 61.9% (n = 289) of participants demonstrated reliable improvement on either measure. Discussion: CBC is a promising intervention that has the potential to significantly expand access to effective and more affordable interventions for emotional health care. Conclusions: Coaching, when delivered by accredited professionals trained in cognitive behavioral theory and interventions and working in real-world settings, can be efficacious in decreasing perceived stress and increasing well-being when delivered through video or telephone.