Expert Evaluation
Program Quality
3.5 out of 5
Pros
Fun and simple app/ free.
Cons
Lack of some engaging features.
Summary
Booster Buddy is a fun and simple app most suitable as a supplement for ongoing treatment for teenagers struggling with mental health difficulties (including psychotic symptoms, depression, substance use, and anxiety). Booster Buddy is designed to be used as a daily check-in with small achievable assignments; however, given the difficulties it targets, this design makes the program less suitable as a standalone. Subsequently, the program attempts to refer users to seek professional help or support from others when needed. The “booster buddy” animated figure is cute and easy to relate to. The presence of this character creates a calming and friendly reach-out experience for the user. The information and the tasks are delivered in a non-judgmental manner – making the program friendly to use. On the downside, some aspects of user engagement (e.g., narration, videos, etc.) are missing from the mostly text-based information.
Notes for Clinicians
As mentioned, Booster Buddy is best suited for teenagers. The app provides some features relating to ongoing treatment (e.g., medication reminders, a crisis management plan, etc.), which makes it suitable as an adjunct to treatment. The therapist can integrate in-session reviews of activities conducted through the app, analyze its mood tracker, and assist in the initial set-up of the “crisis plan”.
Evaluation date:
Tuesday, November 1, 2016