Objectives: 

The main goal of this project is to develop and conduct preliminary acceptability testing for an eHealth treatment based on a combination of education and cogni-tive behavioural therapy for functional cognitive symptoms. We will develop a protocol for the inclusion of a diagnostic tool for FD patients characterized by functional cognitive symptoms into memory clinics for identification of patients based on our recent review. Using a participatory design, this ESR will develop an education package for use with general practitioners on how to explain and discuss diagnosis of FD characterized by functional cognitive symptoms. Finally, we will run a small n=20 feasibility study using the developed intervention in a routine clinical setting.

Expected Results: 

1. Diagnostic protocol for use in memory clinics to identify FD patients presenting with functional cognitive symptoms
2. A platform and treatment package for the online delivery of guided treatment that has been tested for feasibility and acceptability
3. To have demonstrated feasibility of trial design and have preliminary results to aid power calculations for a future larger trial

Planned secondments and research visits: 

1. Aarhus University Hospital (AUH), Research Clinic Functional Disorders (Dr. Frostholm), Aarhus, Denmark; Start: Month 15; Duration: 4 months; Aim: gain expertise in complex intervention development and participatory design
2. DaySix (DS), Edinburgh, UK (Dr. Lowe); Start: Month 32; Duration: 6 months; Aim: learn how to develop a product based on research ideas