Mentalization-Based Group Therapy for Adolescents

Efficacy of Mentalization-Based Group Therapy for Adolescents: A Pilot Randomised Controlled Trial

This is a prospective parallel group design of group-based Mentalization-Based Therapy for Adolescents (MBT-A) through a pilot randomised controlled trial comparing group-based MBT-A plus treatment as usual (TAU) to TAU alone. As a pilot study, we aim to determine: the effectiveness of our recruitment strategies; compliance with protocol/procedures; trends towards reduced self-harm.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Self-harm behaviour in the past 6 months
• In receipt of treatment from local Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services
• Competent and willing to provide written, informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Severe learning disability or pervasive developmental disorder
• Acute psychotic episode
• Eating disorder in the absence of self-harm.
• Non-English speaking
• Current involvement in other ongoing treatment research