Multiphase single case design exploring effectiveness of CAT
Research type
Research Study
Full title
A multiphase single case experimental design exploring the effectiveness of 16 session Cognitive Analytic Therapy with people for whom therapeutic goals remain unmet after Improving Access to Psychology Therapy (IAPT) treatment.
IRAS ID
333825
Contact name
Steve Jefferis
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
CNTW NHS Foundation trust
Duration of Study in the UK
2 years, 1 months, 1 days
Research summary
Improving Access to Psychology therapies (IAPT) services have been running in the UK since 2008; providing early intervention therapy to individuals experiencing moderate mental health difficulties. At present IAPT services largely offer Cognitive, Behavioural Therapy (CBT) targeting symptoms of anxiety and depression. There is a significant nonattendance and lack of recovery problem in IAPT services which has a substantial economic impact as well as creating an unmet need for individuals accessing the service in significant states of distress. It has been found that individuals presenting with personality difficulties respond less favorably to IAPT. Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT) is a model of therapy used in the NHS to support individuals who experience relational difficulties. This study wishes to explore the effectiveness of CAT as an additional intervention that could be provided to complement the existing IAPT service model, by testing the utility and outcomes of CAT on those who have not fully recovered after accessing IAPT interventions. A single case experimental design (SCED) has been selected as it is an appropriate method to assess the utility and outcome of treatments in early stages of development (in this case applying a well evidenced treatment, to a different population). This study will follow participants engaging in CAT therapy through Cumbria, Northumberland and Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation trust through 16 sessions of CAT. Psychometric measures will be completed pre baseline, at the start of treatment, following treatment and at 3 month follow up. Psychometric measures will also be completed on a weekly basis and individualised measures will be completed daily by the participant. A statistical comparison will compare baseline, pre, post and follow up psychometric measures within and between participants to decipher whether clinically significant and reliable change is indicated. Participants will engage in a qualitative interview at 3 month follow up.
REC name
London - Brent Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
24/PR/0523
Date of REC Opinion
29 May 2024
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion