Read and summarize "Effectiveness of Audiologist-Delivered Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Tinnitus and Hyperacusis Rehabilitation: Outcomes for Patients Treated in Routine Practice".
Aazh, H., & Moore, B. C. J. (2018). Effectiveness of Audiologist-Delivered Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Tinnitus and Hyperacusis Rehabilitation: Outcomes for Patients Treated in Routine Practice. American Journal of Audiology, 27(4), 547–558. https://doi.org/10.1044/2018_aja-17-0096
This paper, authored by one of my former professors and providing valuable insights as an audiologist, addresses the high prevalence of mental health issues among tinnitus and hyperacusis patients. Many of these individuals require referral to mental health services but face practical challenges such as long waiting times and a lack of expertise in tinnitus and hyperacusis rehabilitation among mental health specialists (This is one of the reasons why I decided to start my virtual therapy sessions).
To address these challenges, audiologists have begun providing cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), a psychological intervention to modify unhelpful cognitions and behaviors, to tinnitus and hyperacusis patients. While previous research has shown the effectiveness of CBT delivered by psychologists, there needs to be more studies on audiologist-delivered CBT.
Hence, a study was conducted at the Tinnitus and Hyperacusis Therapy Specialist Clinic (THTSC) in the United Kingdom to evaluate the outcome of audiologist-delivered CBT.
The study involved 68 patients who underwent six weekly sessions of CBT, focusing on exploring the impact of tinnitus and hyperacusis on their lives and modifying negative thoughts and behaviors. The CBT sessions were individually tailored and guided by client-centered counseling and motivational interviewing principles. Patients' progress was assessed using various self-report questionnaires before and after the intervention.
This paper served as the catalyst for my decision to offer online services.
Results showed significant improvements in tinnitus and hyperacusis handicap, tinnitus loudness, annoyance, effect on life, and insomnia severity after the CBT sessions. Comparison with previous research on CBT for tinnitus and hyperacusis suggests that audiologist-delivered CBT may yield similar or even superior outcomes in a shorter duration.
In conclusion, audiologist-delivered CBT holds promise as a feasible and potentially effective intervention for managing tinnitus and hyperacusis. By integrating psychological therapies into audiological rehabilitation, patients can receive comprehensive care tailored to their specific needs, ultimately improving their quality of life.
