Exploring therapy processes with people experiencing psychosis
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Exploring how people experiencing psychosis make use of understandings and strategies developed during the joint activity of therapy
IRAS ID
118201
Contact name
Robert Medcalf
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Canterbury Christ Church University, Salomons Campus
Research summary
Family Intervention (FI) and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for psychosis (CBTp) have been shown to reduce depression and relapse rates and improve psychotic symptoms and social functioning (Gamble, 2007; Kingdon & Hansen, 2007). As a result, these psychological interventions have demonstrated how they can each be a cost effective treatment choice, and are recommended in UK clinical guidance (NICE 2003, 2009, 2011). However, routine delivery remains limited and there is a need for adequate CBTp training, organisational support and competent supervision (Jolley et al., 2012). Further research is needed to explore what processes are helpful in therapy for psychosis, as this may provide valuable insight to aid such training. Process research explores variables such as client behaviours, therapist behaviours, the interactions between the two, and the mechanisms through which client change is achieved (Lambert & Hill, 1994 in Llewelyn & Hardy, 2001). It is suggested therefore that information pertaining to active processes within therapy between the client and therapist is best obtained by detailed qualitative analysis (Osatuke et al., 2011). In line with this view, this research will utilise Grounded Theory (GT) in exploring how therapy might be used by the person experiencing psychosis; in particular how people might assimilate, ‘internalise’ or ‘make their own’ any understandings and strategies developed during therapy. Sixteen participants will be selected for semi-structured interviews. 8 pairs of psychologists and clients will be recruited through South London And Maudsley (SLAM) NHS Foundation Trust services. Each participant will be interviewed at one time point towards the end of the treatment course that they are currently involved in. The main aim of this research is to contribute to the further development of individual psychological therapy for psychosis through a more detailed analysis and conceptualisation of the processes involved in therapy in psychosis.
REC name
London - Stanmore Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
13/LO/0792
Date of REC Opinion
30 Jul 2013
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion