None listed
Conditions
Brief summary
This clinical trial will look at which of the two therapies works best in improving thinking skills (e.g. memory and attention) which influence real world functioning. The two therapies are Cognitive Symptom Management and Rehabilitation Therapy (Cogsmart) and Computerised Interactive Remediation of Cognition – Training for Schizophrenia (CIRCuiTS). Cogmsart is a group therapy that aims to improve real world thinking skills for functioning. CIRCuiTS is a computerized program with modules including tasks of a wide range of cognitive functions. It also includes “bridging” were participants in the group reflect on how the program relates to thinking skills needed in real world functioning. What are the possible benefits of taking part? We cannot guarantee or promise that you will receive any benefits from this clinical trial; however your participation will help us better understand if Cogsmart and CIRCuiTS are effective in improves thinking skills that help in every day functioning for people who suffer from psychosis. What does participation in the study involve? This clinical trial will randomise participants in a 1:1 design, which means there is an equal chance of being in either the Cogsmart or CIRcuiTS group. Step 1 Screening Process To determine Initial study eligibility you will partake in a screening interview which will take approximately 30 minutes. Step 2 Contact You will be asked to attend group sessions either once a week for 12 weeks, with each session lasting approximately 2 hours, or twice per week for 12 weeks, with each session lasting approximately 1 hour. You will also be asked to attend three sessions as an individual. At each individual session a clinical trial research assistant/psychologist will conduct a series of clinical assessments. This will involve asking questions about your thinking and problem solving skills, thoughts, symptoms, and relationships.
Interventions
The primary goal of addressing cognitive deficits is to improve real world functioning. Cogsmart ( Cognitive Symptom Management and Rehabilitation Therapy) will be delivered once a week for 2 hours for 12 weeks. It is a manualised cognitive compensatory training program that focusses on the use of strategies to improve real world cognitive functioning ( Zaidman, Sofia Rae, "Pilot Testing CogSMART: A Novel, Compensatory Program of Cognitive Remediation for Psychosis developed by Elizabeth W. Twamley, PhD" (2016). Honors Theses). It will be delivered in 2hour weekly sessions for 12 weeks in groups of up to 8 participants with one facilitator who is trained as a cognitive remediation facilitator. The 12 modules are 1. Introduction to calendars;2. Prospective memory;3 Short term prospective memory;4. Conversational attention; 5. Task attention;6,7,8 Verbal learning and memory; 9,10,11. Cognitive flexibility and problem solving; 12 Skills integration, review and next steps. Participants have their own manual to assist with remembering sessions and homework practice.
Sponsors
Study design
Eligibility
Inclusion criteria
Patients will be invited to participate in the study if they meet all of the following criteria: 1. Participants can be of either gender, and of any ethnic background 2. Aged between 18 and 65 years (inclusive) 3. Fulfil the DSM V criteria for schizophrenia spectrum disorder and with impaired social functioning based on the Diagnostic Interview for Psychosis (DIP) 4. Absence of uncorrected sensory impairments 5. English literacy skills > grade 4 as per years of education 6. Agree to participate, has capacity to consent and able to follow the study instructions and procedures.
Exclusion criteria
Exclusion Criteria 1. Substance dependence (with the exception of tobacco) based on the current time point using the Diagnostic Interview for Psychosis (DIP) 2. Intellectual handicap (estimated full-scale IQ<70) 3. People who are unable to understand or communicate in English 4. English literacy skills < grade 4 as per years of education 5. Comorbid physical illnesses that would impair the participants’ ability to complete the trial.