Title: Which evidence-based psychotherapies are offered by early psychosis services in the United States and Canada?
Davidson, Kyla
Davidson, Kyla
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Abstract
Abstract: Background: Historically, individuals experiencing psychosis have had inadequate access to evidence-based psychotherapy (EBP) (e.g. Burgess-Barr et al., 2023). Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for psychosis (CBTp) is a standard of care in both the US and Canada (APA, 2020; Norman et al., 2017; SAMHSA, 2021). Canadian guidelines also recommend Cognitive Remediation Therapy (CRT) and Social Skills Training (SST) (Norman et al., 2017). However, the evidence base supports a broader range of psychotherapeutic interventions for this population. To inform efforts to improve access to EBPs, more needs to be learned about psychotherapy offered within early psychosis programs, which are a focus of government funding. The overarching aim of this study was to characterize CBTp use within early psychosis programs in the US and Canada. A sub-aim, described on this poster, was identifying other EBPs offered in these services. Method: A structured questionnaire was distributed to early psychosis program leaders via national listservs. Results: All program respondents (Canada N = 28; US N =48) endorsed offering CBTp. Family interventions were the next most frequently reported (85% U.S. and 100% Canadian programs). Respondents endorsed offering a range of other EBPs. Approximately half of programs across Canada and the U.S. reported offering other cognitive-behavioral therapies or SST. 50% of Canadian programs offered CRT. Only 15% U.S. and 0% Canadian programs offered trauma-related interventions. Conclusion: Respondents providing CBTp also offered a range of EBPs for psychosis. Family interventions were most commonly offered, commensurate with early psychosis guidelines (e.g., Addington, 2018). Half of Canadian programs offered CRT and/or SST in line with national guidelines. Despite the relevance of trauma to psychosis, overall, respondents did not offer trauma-related interventions. These findings will inform efforts by the North American CBTp Network Early Psychosis Working Group to improve access to CBTp and related therapies.
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Date
1/1/2026
Student Status
Junior (Graduating in 2027)
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Poster
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Program/Major
Psychological Science and Business
College/School
College of Arts and Sciences
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Clinical Science