GiVE: external pilot randomised controlled trial
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Guided self-help CBT intervention for Voices Evaluated (GiVE): external pilot randomised controlled trial using a wait-list control condition.
IRAS ID
151273
Contact name
C Hazell
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Sussex
Duration of Study in the UK
2 years, 4 months, 30 days
Research summary
Access to psychological treatments is consistently poor for those with more severe mental health problems. One of the key barriers to access is a lack of resources, including therapist time. One method of addressing this barrier is by reducing the time burden on therapists by developing and delivering therapies that are low intensity (require less contact time).
This study aims to trial a new low intensity psychological intervention for those who hear distressing voices (verbal auditory hallucinations), specifically guided self-help cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). This intervention will be compared to a wait list control group, within a randomised controlled external pilot.
The intervention will require participants to engage in some self-help with support from a clinical psychologist. Questionnaire measures will be used to monitor any changes in a wide variety of symptoms from pre to post intervention for all participants. The outcomes being measured reflect the targets of the interventions; for example self-esteem, beliefs about voices and the nature of their relationships. In addition those who receive the intervention will be invited to take part in an interview; in which they will be asked about their experiences of the intervention as well as any changes that might have occurred.
The primary implication of these results will be to develop and inform a definitive, large scale trial of the intervention. If found to be effective, guided self-help CBT for distressing voices could help to increase access to psychological therapies for this population by increasing the number of patients that can be seen within the therapist’s limited available contact time.REC name
North West - Preston Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
15/NW/0575
Date of REC Opinion
15 Jul 2015
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion