Group treatment of auditory hallucinations

Abstract

Background: Cognitive–behavioural therapy has been shown to be effective in reducing psychotic symptoms, but few patients have access to these services. Group cognitive treatment may provide a less costly service with similar benefits.Aims: To explore the effectiveness of group cognitive–behavioural therapy on insight and symptoms, particularly auditory hallucinations.Method: Twenty-one DSM–IV diagnosed patients with schizophrenia with treatment-resistant, distressing auditory hallucinations were referred to a group programme consisting of six sessions of cognitive treatment following a strict protocol which emphasised individual power and control as well as coping strategies.Results: There were significant changes in all three main outcome measures following treatment; those changes were maintained at follow-up and were greater than changes over the waiting-list period. Specifically, there were changes in perceived power and distress as well as increases in the number and effectiveness of the coping strategies.Conclusions: Group treatment for auditory hallucinations needs further investigation but does look promising and may provide a less costly alternative to individual cognitive treatment.