My Cosmos: Development and Usability of a Gamified Digital CBT Platform
Overview
My Cosmos is a mobile-first, gamified digital cognitive–behavioural therapy (dCBT) platform designed to enhance engagement and support self-regulation in anxiety and depression treatment. Initial usability studies with university students and mental health professionals indicate the platform is intuitive, engaging, and valuable as a blended-care tool complementing traditional therapy.
Background
Digital cognitive–behavioural therapy (dCBT) is an effective treatment for anxiety and depression, but sustaining user engagement remains a challenge limiting its real-world impact. Gamification and extended reality elements have potential to improve motivation and skill transfer but are rarely integrated within clinically grounded frameworks compatible with clinician workflows. My Cosmos was developed to embed first-, second-, and third-wave CBT approaches within a gamified, modular structure, supported by a clinician dashboard to facilitate blended care. This approach aligns with evolving regulatory and clinical standards emphasizing integration, safety, and evidence-based digital therapeutics.
Data Highlights
Participant Group
Number
Assessment Tools
Feedback Highlights
University Students
124
SUS, MAUQ, UTAUT2
Described platform as intuitive, engaging, emotionally supportive; useful for self-regulation and structured reflection
Mental Health Professionals
19
SUS, MAUQ, UTAUT2
Moderate but positive evaluations; valued support for homework, progress monitoring, continuity; emphasized clear onboarding and data protection communication
Key Findings
My Cosmos integrates first-, second-, and third-wave CBT approaches within a gamified, transdiagnostic digital platform.
The program assigns users to Anxiety, Depression, or Mixed tracks based on baseline clinical scores (PHQ-9, GAD-7, SF-36).
Usability testing with 124 students showed the platform is intuitive, engaging, and supports emotional self-regulation and reflection.
Mental health professionals (N=19) viewed the platform positively for blended care, highlighting its utility for homework support and progress monitoring.
Both user groups agreed the platform should complement, not replace, traditional therapeutic relationships.
Clear onboarding processes and transparent data protection communication were identified as critical for clinical integration.
Clinical Implications
My Cosmos offers a promising tool to enhance engagement and adherence in digital CBT by embedding gamification within a clinically grounded framework. Its design supports blended care models, enabling clinicians to monitor progress and integrate digital homework effectively. Clear onboarding and data governance are essential to maximize clinician and patient acceptance.
Conclusion
The development and initial usability evaluation of My Cosmos demonstrate its potential as an engaging, clinically compatible digital CBT platform. Ongoing optimization and forthcoming clinical trials will clarify its effectiveness and role within mental health care pathways.
Related Resources & Content
My Cosmos Development Team 2024 -- My Cosmos: A Clinically Grounded Gamified Digital CBT Platform - Development, Protocol, and Initial Usability Insights
