Lessons learned: evaluating the implementation of a yoga-cognitive behavioral therapy group

Abstract

There is a significant need for those with depression and anxiety to have complementary treatment options to help treat the multifaceted symptoms of these illnesses. Evaluating programs for the complementary treatment of depression and anxiety is essential for organizations to measure the outcomes of their programs and to offer quality comprehensive care to clients. This project evaluated the outcomes of a yoga-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy group started at a community mental health center in Montana using the CDC's Guide to Effective Evaluation as a guideline. The yoga-CBT group did not show any positive results in either BDI or GAD-7 scores, and a discussion of limitations of this program was had with stakeholders. Despite the number of limitations, lessons were learned about effective implementation of programs at the community mental health center.