Brief group therapy for psychosis in acute care

Introduction Individual cognitive behaviour therapy for psychosis (CBTp) is a recommended treatment in the acute phase and beyond. However, less is known about the effectiveness of group CBTp in acute care. This mixed methods study explored the implementation and effectiveness of brief group CBTp with inpatients. Methods This prospective trial compared inpatients who received either a four week group CBTp program or treatment as usual (TAU). Participants (n=113 at baseline) completed self-report measures of distress, confidence and symptoms of psychosis at baseline, post-intervention and one month follow up. CBTp group participants also completed a brief open-ended satisfaction questionnaire. Results Participants who received CBTp showed significantly reduced distress at follow up compared to TAU and significantly increased confidence across the study and follow up period. Qualitative analysis of the satisfaction data revealed positive feedback with a number of specific themes. Conclusion The study demonstrates that brief group CBTp with inpatients can improve confidence and reduce distress in the longer term. Participants report that the groups are acceptable and helpful