Approach
This list was generated by a clinical psychology doctoral candidate as part of dissertation research on mental health apps. Apps from the Apple App Store and Google Play Store were reviewed to determine if they meet the following requirements:
- Interactive rather than strictly educational design
- Based on a modality with research support
- Treat a diagnosable adult mental health disorder
- Average rating of three or higher
- Available in the US
Apps meeting these requirements were scored (out of 35 possible points) using the below criteria. The two highest scoring apps per disorder category were classified as "best in class." Here are the scoring criteria that were used:
- Strength of alignment with a research-supported modality
- Amount of precautions taken to protect the user’s privacy
- Whether data can be shared with a mental health provider
- Whether skills can be practiced on the app
- If the app can be understood
- Ease of use
- Degree of satisfaction
The requirements and criteria selected are supported by research. This list of "best in class" apps was published September 2015 with the goal of helping mental health professionals and those in need of mental health support to make informed decisions when it comes to choosing a high quality app.
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Contact information:
Alicia Brown, M.A. brownalicia.2012@gmail.com
