Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy in Veterans With Schizophrenia

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy in Veterans With Schizophrenia

This is a study comparing the benefits of two types of individual psychotherapy (cognitive-behavioral therapy for psychosis and supportive therapy) in symptomatic Veteran outpatients diagnosed with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder. Treatment lasted approximately 6 months, with outcome data on symptoms, functioning, and distress levels collected at baseline, post-treatment, and 6 months post -treatment follow-up.

This is a randomized controlled trial comparing 6 months of participation in one of two active treatments, cognitive-behavioral therapy for psychosis or supportive therapy in symptomatic Veterans diagnosed with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder who are still symptomatic. Assessments of clinical status and social functioning were obtained at baseline, end of treatment, and 6 month follow-up. We hypothesized that participation in the cognitive-behavioral therapy would lead to greater reductions in symptoms and distress about symptoms, and more improvements in social functioning.

Inclusion Criteria:

• outpatients with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder in proximity to the West Los Angeles VAMC
• at least one month since last hospitalization
• stable antipsychotic medication with persisting psychotic symptoms with at least minimal distress
• competent to sign informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

• in other individual psychotherapy
• presence of organic brain disease
• mental retardation
• illness that would prohibit regular attendance in therapy
• substance dependence diagnosis in the past 6 months.