PSYMS-UM: MIP: Statewide implementation of Online Psychotherapy for Michigan Seniors

This project builds on previous work from FY23 and enters its final year in FY24. The initiative proposes a statewide implementation of Empower@Home – a novel web-based cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) program for depression, anxiety, and social isolation among low-income and disabled seniors in Michigan. The target population served is diverse older adults with mobility difficulties in Michigan who suffer or are at high risk for mental health problems like depression, anxiety, and social isolation. We anticipate that the majority of the target population is older adults currently receiving Medicaid waiver services or are otherwise eligible for Medicaid. This project is a collaboration among the University of Michigan researchers, MDHHS (most notably MI Choice Waiver), and the dozens of community agencies that administer the benefits of these MDHHS programs or otherwise serve the target population (for example, Senior Resources, Region 2 Area Agency on Aging, and Northern Care Management).