Group-Based Worry Intervention for Persecutory Delusions: an Initial Feasibility Study

Behav Cogn Psychother. 2018 Sep;46(5):619-625. doi: 10.1017/S1352465818000383. Epub 2018 Jun 20.

Abstract

Background: A one-to-one cognitive behavioural therapy intervention targeting worry significantly reduces both worry and persecutory delusions (Freeman et al., 2015).

Aim: To adapt this intervention for group delivery and conduct a feasibility trial within routine clinical practice.

Method: Thirteen participants were randomized to a weekly 8-session worry intervention group (n = 7) or wait-list control (n = 6).

Results: All but one participant completed measures at all time points. Participants attended an average of six therapy sessions.

Conclusions: Recruitment, retention and therapy uptake were feasible. Observed treatment effects were in the expected direction, but may be diluted compared with one-to-one interventions.

Keywords: cognitive behavioural group therapy; persecutory delusions; worry intervention.

Publication types

  • Randomized Controlled Trial

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Anxiety / psychology*
  • Anxiety / therapy*
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy*
  • Delusions / psychology*
  • Delusions / therapy*
  • Feasibility Studies
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Psychotherapy, Group*
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Waiting Lists
  • Young Adult