Publication date: Available online 17 August 2019
Source: Journal of Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders
Author(s): Jordana Muroff, Suzanne Otte
Abstract
Hoarding is a complex mental health and public health problem that requires innovative approaches and interventions. This article reviews the existing empirical literature on technology-supported interventions for hoarding behaviors. Such interventions include online self-help resources, videoconferencing and webcam-based individual and group treatment, “blended” face-to-face plus therapist assisted online programs, as well as virtual reality. Technology-based interventions may extend access to practitioners with expertise in hoarding, incorporate evidence-based strategies that are available anytime and from anywhere, facilitate more cost-effective services, allow for flexibility in scheduling, harness motivation, support engagement with home commitments, reduce lengthy treatment duration, and enable the delivery of sessions in the home for this home-based problem. Technology-supported interventions for hoarding have applied the specialized CBT model for hoarding developed by Dr. Gail Steketee and colleagues. Results from the reviewed studies suggest feasibility, acceptability, as well as improvement in hoarding outcomes. Additional research is needed to continue to rigorously test such interventions, and develop and test new technological advances.