An online solution focused brief therapy for adolescent anxiety : A randomized controlled trial

In this randomized clinical trial, we investigated the efficacy of an online solution focused brief therapy (SFBT) for adolescents' anxiety symptoms during the COVID-19 period. Eligible participants were between the ages of 11 and 18 years, scored a 10 or above on the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7). The results found that compared to adolescents who did not receive any treatment, the intervention yielded significant results in alleviating adolescents’ anxiety and depressive symptoms while promoting problem oriented coping strategies at immediate post-intervention. The therapeutic benefit has persisted, as shown in our results from the 1-month follow-up. •Online Solution Focused Brief Therapy is an effective early intervention for decreasing adolescents' anxiety.•Adolescent’s depressive level in the intervention group were significantly lower than those in the control group.•This study proved a longer-term intervention effect for this online program during COVID-19 pandemic.•Participants had high satisfaction towards the intervention and recognition towards their symptom reduction.