Cognitive behavioural therapy

• CBT

  5-20 sessions

  helps patient make sense of irrational cognitions (hallucinations, delusions) which impact their feelings and behaviours.

  challenges delusions

  normalises hallucinations
• Research evidence for effectiveness

  Jauhar et al

  reviewed 34 studies of CBT

  small but significant effects on positive + negative symptoms.
• Limitation - ethical issues

  May be manipulating their thoughts and challenging freedom of thought.
• Limitation - suitability

  Suitable for most patients but may not be appropriate for patients when they are in an acute psychotic episode
• Limitation - cure

  CBT is not a cure for Sz

  Only reduces intensity of symptoms and not a significant amount
• Strenghts - appropriateness

  • no side effects
  • available on the NHS