CBT Benefits People With Severe Schizophrenia

People with severe schizophrenia who have been isolated, withdrawn, and considered extremely difficult to treat can benefit from cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), according to a study published online October 3 in the Archives of General Psychiatry. Treatment consisted of weekly, goal-directed CBT therapy sessions focused on engaging the patient, establishing a therapeutic rapport, and stimulating interest and motivation in achieving long-term, measurable goals, such as improved relationships, living in independent housing, or holding a job.

The study was headed by Paul Grant, Ph.D., of the University of Pennsylvania, and the senior investigator was Aaron Beck, M.D., the father of cognitive therapy, who turned 90 years old this year.

To read more about the study and Beck's other achievements, see Psychiatric News at http://pn.psychiatryonline.org/content/46/14.1.2.full.

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