An Investigation of the Effectiveness of Automated, Evidence-based Treatment.
Stephanie Richardson: Principal Investigator today (July 7th, 2022) announced a research opportunity related to the effectiveness of automated, evidence-based treatment for the fear of flying. This research will examine the ability to bridge the gap between individuals who suffer from fear of flying and low-cost, easily accessible treatment in Alaska.
Richardson states, “As many as 22,000 Alaskans experience fear of flying that interferes with decisions that they would otherwise make such as going on vacation, accepting a job that requires travel, and obtaining medical care in a location outside of their home community. Research has, however, found that mental health treatment can have a 90% effectiveness. Only 23% of individuals with fear of flying, however, engage in treatment. There are many reasons for this, including cost, time demands, and anxiety about treatment. This research examines the effectiveness of a treatment intervention that has the potential to bridge this gap.”
Alaska residents, who are at least 18 years of age, and are interested in participating in this six-week research project, can learn more at www.FlyAlaskaMentalHealth.com.
About Stephanie Richardson: Raised in Alaska, Stephanie knows the enjoyment of the geographical beauty, economic potential, and the community of the State. She also, however, knows that the winters can get long, and it can be challenging if family and friends live thousands of miles away. Alaskans, therefore, depend on travelling on airplanes. Her passion is to work to reduce the impact of Specific Phobia of Flying for Alaskans so that individuals can fly to sunshine in the dark winter, visit family and friends, and enjoy life without panic related to flying. Stephanie is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Doctor of Psychology candidate at Alaska Pacific University.
