Experiences of patients with chronic low back pain plus comorbid depressive symptoms in a videoconference group acceptance and commitment therapy or behavioral activation treatment for depression: a qualitative study

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Purpose To explore the experiences of patients with chronic low back pain (CLBP) plus comorbid depressive symptoms who received a remote synchronous videoconference group form of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) or Behavioral Activation Treatment for Depression (BATD). Methods A qualitative study (IMPACT-Q) was nested within a randomized controlled trial (RCT) designed to assess the efficacy and the cost-utility/cost-effectiveness of two therapies in the management of CLBP and depression. Fifty-five patients with CLBP plus depression were selected from the RCT. Twelve focus group sessions, each approximately 60–90 min long, were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed by six coders through a thematic analysis (deductive and inductive) based on a descriptive phenomenological approach. Results Patients perceived behavioral, affective, and cognitive improvements after completing group sessions. Overall, psychotherapy was perceived as a safe and non-judgmental place to express emotions and feel understood. The main barriers reported were lack of human contact and loss of social interaction. In contrast, ease of access, flexibility in the ability to connect from anywhere, avoidance of the need to travel, and savings in time and money were key facilitators to increase attendance and adherence to therapy. Conclusion This study provided support for the acceptability of videoconference-delivered ACT or BATD in patients with CLBP plus comorbid depressive symptoms.