MIP: Statewide implementation of online psychotherapy for Michigan seniors

This project expands the reach from previous work from FY22. 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 (including MI Choice Waiver, Home Help, Adult Services Program, and possibly Aging & Adult Services Agency), and the dozens of community agencies that administer the benefits of these MDHHS programs or otherwise serve the target population (for example, Senior Alliance, Region 2 Area Agency on Aging, Reliance Community Care Partners). Implementation of the program will be statewide as our community partners cover most of the state, including the upper peninsula.