Effectiveness of CAT-GSH for Returning Patients
This research is investigating two types of guided self-help therapies for people in the UK experiencing anxiety or low mood: CAT-GSH and CBT-GSH. It's specifically for those who have used NHS Talking Therapies services before and are coming back for more help. The main goal is to find out if CAT-GSH is just as good, or even better, and as acceptable as CBT-GSH for these individuals. The study will also see how these therapies compare for someone returning for treatment versus someone trying CBT-GSH for the first time. Participants will pick their preferred therapy, have 6 guided sessions, and complete some forms to track how they're feeling before, during, and after their treatment.
At a glance
What is this study about?
When you're dealing with feelings of anxiety or low mood, finding the right support can make a big difference. NHS Talking Therapies services offer different ways to help. This particular study is looking into two types of guided self-help that teach you coping skills: Cognitive Analytic Therapy Guided Self-Help (CAT-GSH) and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Guided Self-Help (CBT-GSH). Guided self-help means you work through materials and exercises on your own, but with support and guidance from a therapist.
This study is especially for people who have already had therapy for their anxiety or low mood and are coming back to NHS Talking Therapies for more support. It wants to find out if CAT-GSH works just as well as, or perhaps even better than, CBT-GSH for these individuals. The researchers are also interested to see which therapy people prefer and find more helpful. They'll compare how well these newer methods work for returning patients against those trying a specific therapy for the first time.
By running this study, the researchers hope to understand which guided self-help approach might be most effective and welcomed by people who need ongoing support for their mental wellbeing. This could help NHS Talking Therapies services offer the best possible choices for everyone.
Key takeaways
- Compares two types of guided self-help: CAT-GSH vs. CBT-GSH.
- For people returning to NHS Talking Therapies for anxiety or low mood.
- Goal is to see which therapy works best and is preferred.
- You choose your preferred therapy.
- Involves 6 guided sessions and some questionnaires.
- Study aims to improve therapy choices for mental wellbeing.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for adults aged 16 and over who have previously received CBT Guided Self-Help treatment through an NHS Talking Therapies service. You need to be currently experiencing anxiety or low mood, and the service must consider you suitable for this type of low-intensity therapy.
However, you won't be able to join if you've recently had a more intensive type of therapy since your last CBT Guided Self-Help. You also can't take part if your previous treatment was at a different NHS Talking Therapies service, or if you're not fluent in English. The reason for excluding those not fluent in English is that the therapy materials haven't been translated into other languages, and there isn't money to do this.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you 16 years old or older?
- Have you had CBT Guided Self-Help at an NHS Talking Therapies service before?
- Are you currently feeling anxious or low?
- Has your NHS service said you're suitable for low-intensity therapy?
- Have you NOT had intensive therapy since your last CBT Guided Self-Help?
- Is your previous therapy from the SAME NHS Talking Therapies service?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part, the first step is a chat with an assessor from the Talking Therapies service. They'll confirm if the study is right for you. If it is, you'll receive some detailed information about the study and a consent form. You'll have at least 48 hours (or 7-14 days depending on the service) to read this carefully and ask any questions you might have. A staff member will call you to answer your questions and help you decide.
Once you've agreed to join and chosen whether you'd prefer CAT-GSH or CBT-GSH, you'll start your therapy. You will have 6 sessions, which will be weekly or every other week, with guidance from a therapist. Throughout the therapy, and at the beginning and end, you'll be asked to complete some questionnaires. These help the researchers track how you're feeling and how well the treatment is working. If you decide not to participate at any point, you'll simply receive the usual care from the Talking Therapies service.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (2)
- Tameside and Glossop NHS Talking Therapies ServiceVerified postcodeAshton-under-Lyne, United Kingdom· Recruiting
- Leeds Mental Wellbeing ServiceVerified postcodeLeeds, United Kingdom· Recruiting
Common questions
What is 'guided self-help'?
It's a way of learning coping skills for anxiety or low mood using materials, with regular support and guidance from a therapist.
What's the difference between CAT-GSH and CBT-GSH?
These are two different therapy approaches. This study is trying to understand if CAT-GSH works as well as, or is preferred over, CBT-GSH for people returning to therapy.
How long will I be in the study?
You will have 6 therapy sessions, either once a week or every two weeks, plus time for initial assessments and follow-up questionnaires.
Can I choose which therapy I receive?
Yes, if you meet the study criteria, you will be able to choose whether you'd prefer CAT-GSH or CBT-GSH.
What if I change my mind after joining?
You can withdraw from the study at any time. Your usual care from the NHS Talking Therapies service won't be affected.
How to find out more
Andrew J Laphan
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
Community discussion
Powered by our forum at community.patient.info. Please be respectful — this is not medical advice.