BRAVE Program for Early Psychosis

(BRAVE Trial)

This trial tests a new therapy called BRAVE, designed to help young adults with early psychosis manage risk factors for violence. Participants will first receive their usual care, followed by BRAVE therapy sessions. The study aims to evaluate the therapy's effectiveness in reducing violent behaviors and improving treatment engagement over time. Young adults diagnosed with early psychosis and currently in outpatient care at an early psychosis clinic might be suitable candidates for this trial. As an unphased trial, this study offers participants a unique opportunity to contribute to innovative research that could shape future treatments for early psychosis.

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.

Research has shown that the BRAVE program, a type of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), is generally safe and well-tolerated. No specific reports indicate harmful effects from the BRAVE program itself. This therapy helps individuals manage their thoughts and actions and has been successfully implemented in schools to reduce violence and enhance safety.

Researchers are excited about the BRAVE program for early psychosis because it combines standard treatment with a new, targeted approach. Unlike typical treatments that focus mainly on medication and general therapy, BRAVE integrates a manualized cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) intervention specifically designed to address risk factors for violence. This focus not only aims to manage psychosis symptoms but also helps in reducing the potential for harmful behaviors. The program's unique weekly session structure within existing early psychosis services ensures that participants receive consistent, specialized care tailored to their unique challenges.

Research has shown that cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can reduce symptoms in individuals experiencing early signs of psychosis. Programs focused on early psychosis have proven effective in lessening symptom severity and improving overall outcomes, such as maintaining school or work attendance and reducing legal issues. Studies also indicate that these early interventions can significantly decrease death rates. In this trial, participants in the "TAU + BRAVE" arm will receive the BRAVE program, which uses CBT to address risk factors linked to violence, potentially leading to safer outcomes. Early results suggest that participants in these specialized programs experience significant improvements in their conditions.¹⁴⁶⁷⁸