Visualization of Experience Sampling Method Data in Mental Health: Qualitative Study of the Physicians' Perspective in Germany.

Abstract

Although the integration of self-monitored patient data into mental health care offers potential for advancing personalized approaches, its application in clinical practice remains largely underexplored. Capturing individuals' mental health outside the therapy room using experience sampling methodology (ESM) may bridge this gap by supporting shared decision-making and personalized interventions. This qualitative study investigated the perspectives of German mental health professionals regarding prototypes of ESM data visualizations designed for integration into a digital mental health tool. Semistructured interviews were conducted with clinicians on their perceptions of such visualizations in routine care. Using reflexive thematic analysis, 3 key findings emerged (1) ESM and ESM data visualizations were seen as valuable tools for enhancing patient motivation and engagement over the course of treatment; (2) simplicity and clarity of visual formats, particularly line graphs, were preferred for usability; and (3) practical concerns, such as workflow integration challenges centered on time constraints (psychotherapy session duration 50 min) and need for patient psychoeducation materials, influenced perceived utility. Challenges, including the risk of cognitive overload from dense data representations (eg, ESM mood-in-context visualizations), were raised. These findings underline the importance of designing digital tools that align with clinical needs while addressing potential barriers to implementation by exploring the opportunities and challenges associated with ESM visualizations.