Behavioral activation in a smartphone based platform for depression (TOTEM) and the potential usefulness for occupational therapists

Abstract

Behavioral activation is a core part of cognitive behavioral therapy, a popular evidence-based treatment for depressive complaints. Research showed that solely providing behavioral activation can also be effective, sometimes even as effective as complete cognitive behavioral therapy programs. The rise of technology allows for behavioral activation to be delivered via smartphone-based platforms. While already proven effective, more work needs to be done to tailor such technologies toward the target population and provide timely care when needed most. The technology should not be used as a stand-alone tool but to support caregivers. While the use of activities in therapy is nothing new for occupational therapists, behavioral activation as a core part of cognitive behavioral therapy is usually linked to the practice of psychologists or behavioral therapists. Nevertheless, research has indicated the merits of combining occupational therapy with behavioral activation. For instance, to increase self-management in clients with long-lasting functional limitations. The TOTEM-platform (currently in development) is presented as a tool that aims to provide behavioral activation in a blended care format to people with light to moderate symptoms of depression. As co-creation is an essential part of the TOTEM development process, the potential use of TOTEM in occupational therapy will be discussed with the audience. This allows the identification of specific requirements for the successful implementation of TOTEM in occupational therapy that can be considered during the development process.