The management of schizophrenia: cognitive behavioural therapy

Over the past decade advances in the management of schizophrenia in the community have involved increasing emphasis on the psychosocial dynamics of care, coordinated through a care programme approach, and the introduction of new medication. In particular, the use of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) has been shown to be an effective means of tackling symptoms associated with schizophrenia (Jones et al, 1998). While some of the techniques used in CBT may be too advanced for untrained therapists to use, the approach described in this article may be used by registered mental health nurses and community professionals. This approach includes medication adherence, coping strategies, questioning style, the prevention of patient relapse and dealing with relatives.