Outcomes From Remediation and Behavioural Intervention Techniques
This research trial is studying how effective different types of therapy are for people dealing with conditions like schizophrenia. These therapies include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Psychosis (CBTp), which helps with thought patterns, and Cognitive Remediation (CR), which builds brain skills. The main goal is to understand if one therapy works best on its own, or if combining them is more helpful for improving things like daily life and overall well-being. Researchers also want to find out what factors might predict who will respond best to which treatment. This is important because while current treatments help with symptoms, they don't always fully improve quality of life and community involvement.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This important study is looking into new ways to help people living with conditions like schizophrenia and psychosis. We know that current treatments are good at managing many symptoms, but sometimes people still find it difficult to fully participate in daily life and feel their best. This trial aims to improve that.
The researchers are focusing on two types of talking therapy: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Psychosis (CBTp) and Cognitive Remediation (CR). CBTp helps people understand and change unhelpful thought patterns that can be part of psychosis. CR is like 'brain training' and aims to improve mental skills such as memory, attention, and problem-solving. This study wants to see how well these therapies work, either on their own, or when used together. They believe that combining these therapies might be even more effective than using just one because they help in different ways.
One of the main goals is to understand *who* benefits most from each type of therapy. For example, will certain people do better with CBTp alone, others with CR alone, and some with both? By figuring this out, doctors can offer more tailored and effective treatments in the future. The study is also one of the largest of its kind, looking at these types of therapies for schizophrenia, which means the results could make a big difference.
Key takeaways
- This study is testing new ways to help people with conditions like schizophrenia live fuller lives.
- It involves different types of talking therapy and 'brain training'.
- Researchers want to find out which therapy, or combination, works best for different people.
- The goal is to improve daily activities, quality of life, and overall well-being.
- This is one of the largest studies of its kind, aiming to make future treatments more personalised.
Who may be eligible?
To be considered for this study, you need to be an adult between 18 and 65 years old. You should also have been diagnosed with a condition that falls under the schizophrenia spectrum of disorders. It's important that you can read, write, and speak English, as the therapies and assessments will be in English.
However, there are reasons why someone might not be able to join. For instance, if you have certain brain conditions that affect your development or thinking, you would not be able to take part. Also, if you’ve already had CBT, or similar brain training (Cognitive Remediation), in the past six months, you wouldn't be eligible for this particular study, as they are looking at people new to these therapies or within a specific timeframe.
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 between 18 and 65 years old?
- Have you been diagnosed with a schizophrenia-spectrum disorder?
- Can you read, write, and speak English?
- Do you *not* have certain brain-related developmental or thinking problems?
- Have you *not* received CBT or similar 'brain training' in the last 6 months?
What does participation involve?
The specific details of what taking part involves are not fully described in the summary, but typically, studies like this would involve several clinic visits. You might undergo various assessments, such as talking to researchers about your experiences, filling out questionnaires, and taking part in tasks that test your thinking skills. You would then receive one of the study therapies: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Psychosis, Cognitive Remediation ('brain training'), or a friendly 'befriending' chat. Your progress would be monitored over time, likely with follow-up appointments and assessments. The total duration of participation isn't specified but usually involves multiple sessions over several weeks or months.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (2)
- University of Toronto ScarboroughVerified postcodeScarborough Village, Canada· Recruiting
- Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences (Ontario Shores)Verified postcodeWhitby, Canada· Recruiting
Common questions
What is CBT for Psychosis (CBTp)?
It's a type of talking therapy that helps people understand and manage difficult thoughts and feelings often experienced with psychosis.
What is Cognitive Remediation (CR)?
This is like 'brain training' that helps improve mental skills such as memory, attention, and problem-solving.
Will I get medication in this study?
This study focuses on talking therapies (CBTp and CR), not medication. Your current medication is usually continued as normal unless discussed with your doctor.
Why is 'Befriending' mentioned as an intervention?
Befriending is often used in studies as a control or comparison group, providing support without the specific therapeutic elements of CBTp or CR, to understand the unique effects of those therapies.
How long will the study last if I join?
The exact duration isn't specified here, but studies involving these types of therapies typically involve several weeks or months of regular sessions and follow-up assessments.
How to find out more
Hanna Hamzai, HBSc
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
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