Relaxation training for tension headache: Comparative efficacy and cost-effectiveness of a minimal therapist contact versus a therapist-delivered procedure

Authors

• Steven J. Teders, State University of New York Albany
• Edward B. Blanchard, State University of New York Albany
• Frank Andrasik, State University of New York Albany
• Susan E. Jurish, State University of New York Albany
• Debra F. Neff, State University of New York Albany
• John G. Arena, State University of New York Albany

Abstract

This study compared the clinical utility and cost-effectiveness of a standard, therapist-delivered relaxation treatment of tension headache to a comparable procedure administered with minimal therapist contact and based chiefly at home. Both procedures were highly effective and nearly equivalent for reducing headache complaints, as assessed by measures of headache index, intensity, frequency, and of medication consumption. The minimal contact, home-based treatment was shown to be more cost-effective when relating total amount of therapist contact to headache improvement. These findings suggest that the home-based relaxation treatment may constitute a viable, low-cost alternative to the more typical, but expensive, clinic-based procedures in the treatment of tension headache. © 1984 Association for Advancement of Behavior Therapy. All rights reserved.

Publication Title

Behavior Therapy

Recommended Citation

Teders, S., Blanchard, E., Andrasik, F., Jurish, S., Neff, D., & Arena, J. (1984). Relaxation training for tension headache: Comparative efficacy and cost-effectiveness of a minimal therapist contact versus a therapist-delivered procedure. Behavior Therapy, 15 (1), 59-70. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0005-7894(84)80041-6