Applying the Project ECHO Model to Support Implementation and Sustainment of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Psychosis

Project Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes (ECHO) is a teleconsultation model that leverages technology to sustain specialized interventions in underresourced settings. We present the application of the ECHO model to longitudinal training and consultation for community behavioral health providers learning to deliver cognitive behavioral therapy for psychosis, an evidence-based psychotherapy for individuals with psychotic disorders that has poorly penetrated the US mental health system. Our evaluation suggests that the ECHO model supports continuous professional development for practitioners, most of whom had indicated inadequate preparation for their role. We observed improved learner and select patient outcomes.