Meta-analysis of culturally adapted cognitive behavioral therapy for anxiety and depression

In this meta-analysis, we synthesized 42 between-group studies (N = 4114) evaluating the effectiveness of culturally adapted cognitive behavioral therapy (CA-CBT) on reducing depression and anxiety severity when compared to waitlist/control groups and active alternative treatments. Separate random-effects meta-analyses revealed moderate-to-large effect sizes in favor of CA-CBT on depression and anxiety when compared to active alternative treatments and waitlist/control groups. Independent random-effects models revealed evidence of publication bias and indicated influential moderating effects on anxiety. Implications for counselor practice are discussed.