Optimizing Treatment Engagement Processes in CBT for Anxiety and Related Disorders

This book focuses on how to effectively support treatment engagement for patients with anxiety and related disorders. The text begins from the premise that individuals already face numerous logistical, environmental, and systemic barriers to evidence-based psychotherapy. Furthermore, among anxious populations, the very symptoms that require treatment—namely, avoidance and fear-based cognitions--can deter treatment seeking. Thus, it is critical to understand how best to support treatment engagement once access barriers are overcome. Summarizing the state of the research and integrating practical application, this volume lays out the ways to maximize patient engagement and optimize treatment outcomes in cognitive behavioral treatments for the range of anxiety and related disorders. Readers will gain theoretical understanding of the treatment engagement process, knowledge about common barriers to treatment, and clinical strategies for optimizing engagement in care.


With an evidence-based and culturally responsive perspective.. this book is a comprehensive collection of scientific findings, expert guidance, and practical strategies to navigate barriers to care and ensure that individuals receive effective care. It is an essential resource for clinicians and researchers who are committed to enhancing treatment engagement and outcomes.

       — Cassidy Gutner, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Department of Psychiatry, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine

Optimizing Treatment Engagement Processes in CBT for Anxiety and Related Disorders is the “bridge” clinicians need to effectively implement exposure-based therapies.  It should be on the shelf of anyone who treats anxiety.

         — David Tolin, Ph.D., ABPP, Director, Anxiety Disorders Center, The Institute of Living, Adjunct Professor of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine

A valuable addition to the literature, this text provides a comprehensive framework for supporting and engaging patients in cognitive behavioral therapy…it will be beneficial for both established clinicians and trainees who are delivering evidenced-based psychotherapies for anxiety...

       — Sabine Wilhelm, Ph.D., Chief of Psychology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Donovan-Chien Family Professor in Psychology at Harvard Medical School