Compassion-Focused Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Psychosis

(REFLECT Trial)

This trial aims to determine if Compassion-Focused Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (REFLECT), a special type of group therapy, can assist people with psychosis by altering core beliefs that might influence their condition. Conducted online over six weeks, the therapy includes weekly sessions and home practice. It targets individuals with schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, or similar conditions who are already receiving outpatient treatment. Participants need access to technology such as a smartphone or computer with internet connectivity. The trial will assess the safety, feasibility, and effectiveness of this therapy in improving symptoms and personal recovery. As an unphased trial, it presents a unique opportunity to explore a promising therapy that could enhance personal recovery and symptom management.

The trial does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. However, since participants must be engaged in current outpatient treatment, which can include medication management, it seems likely that you can continue your current medications.

Research has shown that Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for psychosis (CBTp) is generally safe and well-tolerated. Studies have found that CBTp can help reduce symptoms like hallucinations and delusions, suggesting that the therapy does not cause significant harm to participants.

Compassion-focused therapy, an important part of this trial, is also considered safe. Previous research indicates it can improve emotional well-being and reduce stress without major side effects. Using these therapies together in a group setting aims to enhance safety and provide emotional support.

Compassion-Focused Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for psychosis is unique because it integrates skills and strategies specifically designed to foster self-compassion within the traditional CBT framework. Unlike standard treatments for psychosis, which often focus primarily on medication and symptom management, this approach aims to address the emotional and psychological needs of individuals by enhancing their self-compassion. Researchers are excited because this method has the potential to improve mental health outcomes by reducing self-criticism and enhancing emotional resilience, offering a more holistic approach to managing psychosis.

Research has shown that Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for psychosis (CBTp) can reduce symptoms like delusions and hallucinations. Studies indicate it has a small to medium impact on improving overall symptoms of psychosis. Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT) also shows promise by boosting self-kindness, decreasing self-criticism, and enhancing treatment outcomes. These therapies address the core beliefs contributing to psychosis, aiming to change negative thought patterns. Overall, both CBTp and CFT can lead to meaningful improvements for people experiencing psychosis. In this trial, all participants will undergo a six-week group intervention that integrates these therapies within a CBTp framework.³⁴⁶⁷⁸