Schizophrenia: An exploration of an acceptance, mindfulness, and compassion-based group intervention

Abstract

ObjectiveThis study aimed to develop and apply a brief (five‐session) group‐based intervention called Compassionate, Mindful and Accepting approach to Psychosis (CMAP) for patients diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia.MethodsThe intervention was based on three major approaches: the mindfulness framework adapted for psychosis with the proposed modifications for meditation work, the rationales from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Compassion‐Focused Therapy adapted to psychosis. The intervention was in group format, with one therapist (five 1‐hr sessions). Five patients (male, single, between 22 and 35 years old, Caucasian) completed the intervention. Participants completed self‐report measures at baseline (1-week prior to intervention) and post‐treatment (1-week—additionally the Satisfaction with Intervention Questionnaire).ResultsThe intervention seemed acceptable for all participants. For illustration of potential benefits of this approach, pre‐post results are presented and discussed for two patients. Overall, there was improvement in both patients, although in different measures. Both patients’ conviction in paranoid delusions decreased, while an increase in acting with awareness was observed.ConclusionsAlthough preliminary, the results are in line with previous research in psychosis. Future directions and clinical implications are discussed.