Expert Evaluation
Program Quality
3.3 out of 5
Privacy Explanation
Almost Transparent
Pros
Variety of active chat groups/ Basic features (including chat groups) are free/ Mood tracker can be helpful as a supplement to treatment.
Cons
As a self-help program, tools are presented in a sporadic manner, with no A-to-Z guidance/ Web-based app is lacking in usability.
Summary
Pacifica’s design is suitable for teenagers and young adults who are dealing with mild to moderate distress. The program’s strength lies in the combination of active chat groups and tools to assist with the coping process. Specifically, the various topics for group chats along with a youth-oriented community create a welcoming experience. As a self-help program, tools are presented in a sporadic manner, with no A-to-Z guidance. As a result, the program can be somewhat confusing and more suitable as a supplement to ongoing treatment. In our evaluation, the web-based program was lacking in some usability aspects compared to the mobile app.
Notes for Clinicians
Pacifica could be helpful as a supplement to treatment for teenagers struggling with mild to moderate distress. The clinician can take part in analyzing the daily mood tracker during therapy sessions. In addition, the app can provide “in-between” support through the use of chat groups related to the patient’s specific mental health difficulty.
Evaluation date:
Wednesday, February 15, 2017