GROUP CBT FOR PEOPLE WITH SCHIZOPHRENIA: A PRELIMINARY EVALUATION

Abstract
Individual cognitive behavioural interventions for psychosis are rapidly developing and are being shown to be effective. This paper examines the application of these interventions on a group basis. The nature of the group, treatment outcome and potential benefits of using this format are described. After the group intervention, all patients were less depressed, most had higher self-esteem and greater knowledge of schizophrenia, and half the group felt better able to cope with their symptoms. Patients reported feeling less isolated and two of the four group members stated a preference for group over individual treatment.