An open label study of cognitive behavioral therapy for individuals with at-risk mental state: Feasibility and safety in a Japanese clinical setting
Poster C14, Saturday, October 22, 11:30 am - 1:00 pm, Le Baron
Yumiko Hamaie1, Koichi Abe2, Emi Sunakawa1, Noriyuki Ohmuro1, Masahiro Katsura1, Hiroo Matsuoka1,2, Shimako Nishiyama3, Naohisa Tsujino4, Toshifumi Kichimoto5, Michio Suzuki3, Masafumi Mizuno4, Kazunori Matsumoto2,6; 1Department of Psychiatry, Tohoku University Hospital, 2Department of Psychiatry, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 3Department of Neuropsychiatry, University of Toyama Graduate School of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Science, 4Department of Neuropsychiatry, Toho University School of Medicine, 5Department of Psychiatry, Nara Medical University, 6Department of Preventive Psychiatry, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine
Background The importance of psychological intervention for individuals with at-risk mental state (ARMS) has been globally acknowledged, and the effectiveness of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) has been indicated. We designed an open-label pilot study and attempted to explore the feasibility of CBT for ARMS in Japan. Methods Participants were recruited from four university hospitals that provide services for individuals with ARMS. CBT was provided by trained therapists in addition to standard psychiatric treatment, and was limited to a maximum of 25 sessions over 6 months. The main outcome was the total score on the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS). Secondary outcomes included scores on the PANSS and Global Assessment of Functioning (GAF), depression, and social functioning. Participants were monitored at 3, 6, and 12 months following initial assessment. Results Thirteen individuals completed the CBT intervention and follow-up. There was significant improvement in the scores on the PANSS, the GAF, depression, and social function at 6 months, and the improvements persisted at the 12-month follow-up. One (7.7%) participant transited to psychosis; however, the transition rate was lower compared to that reported in previous studies. Conclusion We confirmed the feasibility and safety of the provision of CBT for ARMS as a part of the adequately resourced service. Although, there are few experienced CBT therapists in Japan, development of a training and supervision system for therapists and the procurement of financial resources to employ them seems critical for the dissemination of a CBT-based approach for ARMS.
Topic Area: Psychosocial Interventions