Usability and Acceptance by Therapists and Users of an Internet-Based Intervention Based on the Unified Protocol in Argentina.

Abstract

Latin American countries face a significant mental health gap, characterized by an increasing prevalence of mental disorders and limited access to evidence-based treatments. Internet-based interventions hold promise for bridging this gap. In Argentina, there are currently no locally developed internet-based interventions. To address this gap, our research team recently developed an Internet-Based Unified Protocol Intervention (IUPI), a transdiagnostic intervention adapted from the Unified Protocol. This study aimed to evaluate its usability and acceptability in the local population, a necessary step for its subsequent implementation.

Methodology: A mixed-methods study was conducted with 20 professionals and 10 users who tested IUPI for 2 weeks. The System Usability Scale, an ad-hoc questionnaire, and focus groups were conducted.

Results: Usability scores indicated good usability for both professionals (M = 71.37 SD = 19.61) and users (M = 73.75 SD = 2.60). Both groups expressed willingness to use and recommend the platform. Thematic analysis revealed the perception that these interventions can enhance access to treatment. On the other hand, barriers such as connectivity issues, limited resources, and perceived lack of warmth and support were described.

Discussion: This is the first usability study of an internet-based intervention in Argentina. Findings are promising for cultural adaptation and broader implementation, potentially increasing access to psychotherapeutic treatments.