Effectiveness and meaning of “low-intensity” cognitive behavioural interventions for Latin American immigrants in London

Growing research into the cultural validity of psychotherapeutic models reflects the current interest in the impact of culture on mental healthcare. In the UK, Low and High Intensity modalities of Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT) are offered as cost-effective interventions for anxiety and depression in primary care. Research with Latino migrants in the US highlights the broad suitability of CBT interventions to this culture. However, its findings may not be generalisable to the Latino migrant population in the UK, due to different socio-political circumstances.
This study explores the effectiveness and meaning of a Low Intensity CBT group intervention for Latino migrants in London using a mixed-methods approach. Participants attended a four-week workshop on anxiety and worry management facilitated in Spanish. Eight participants‘ pre and post-intervention scores in various outcome measures (CORE-OM, PHQ-9 and GAD-7) were compared using a repeated measures design. Additionally, seven participants gave their views on the intervention in two focus groups, information which was analysed to ascertain the themes underlying the discussions.
Scores showed a trend towards a reduction in anxiety levels, failing to reach statistical significance. However, participants‘ positive evaluation of the intervention seemed in disagreement with these modest results. Possible reasons for this discrepancy are discussed. Four themes were identified as underlying their discussions: useful CBT-specific elements, useful generic elements, intervention as basic/scope for improvement and Latino community needs. Participants acknowledged the place for Low Intensity CBT interventions, although thought further input was necessary. Therefore, they called for support at a community-level aimed at empowering the Latino community in the UK to tackle socio-political problems affecting them. These results are put in the context of previous research. Potential clinical implications as well as further research necessary on this topic are discussed.