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Adjuvant psychotherapy in early-stage bipolar disorder: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Thomas J Stamm1,2, Julia C Zwick3, Grace O'Malley4
1Department of Clinical Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Brandenburg Medical School Theodor Fontane, Neuruppin, Germany. thomas.stamm@mhb-fontane.de.
Trials
|October 14, 2020
Summary
This study investigates group psychotherapy for early-stage bipolar disorder, aiming to reduce relapse and improve functioning. Results will inform evidence-based adjuvant care for patients.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Clinical Psychology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Bipolar disorder is a chronic illness with high relapse rates, often beginning in adolescence or early adulthood.
- Limited evidence exists on psychotherapy effectiveness during early stages of bipolar disorder.
- Early, tailored interventions may improve prognosis for bipolar disorder.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the effectiveness of group psychotherapy in preventing relapse in early-stage bipolar disorder.
- To assess the impact of group psychotherapy on global adaptive functioning.
- To evaluate changes in neuropsychological functioning following group psychotherapy.
Main Methods:
- A multicenter randomized controlled trial (RCT) involving 300 patients with bipolar disorder.
- Comparison of Specific Emotional-Cognitive Therapy (SECT) against an active control, Emotion-Focused Supportive Therapy (EFST).
- 48-hour group therapy sessions delivered monthly over 4 months, with assessments at baseline, 6, 12, and 18 months.
Main Results:
- The study aims to determine the effects of SECT versus EFST on relapse rates.
- It will assess differences in global functioning between the two groups.
- Neuropsychological functioning changes will be compared at the 18-month follow-up.
Conclusions:
- The study will establish an evidence base for group psychotherapy as an adjuvant treatment for bipolar disorder.
- Findings will guide the integration of accessible group psychotherapy into routine psychiatric care.
- This research addresses the need for effective interventions in the critical early stages of bipolar disorder.
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