Motivational Interviewing in Patients with Acute Psychosis: A Feasibility Study

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Clinical Psychology
• Health Services Research

Background:

• Psychotic disorders represent a significant global cause of disability.
• Psychotherapeutic interventions are crucial during the acute phase of psychosis.
• Motivational interviewing (MI) can enhance therapeutic alliances and patient motivation for treatment adherence.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the feasibility and impact of motivational interviewing (MI) for patients experiencing acute psychosis.
• To assess the potential of MI in improving clinical outcomes for individuals with acute psychotic disorders.

Main Methods:

• A pilot feasibility study was conducted comparing MI with supportive counseling.
• Twenty inpatients diagnosed with acute psychosis received four therapy sessions each.
• Feasibility outcomes were measured according to CONSORT guidelines for pilot studies, with clinical outcomes analyzed using linear regression.

Main Results:

• Recruitment achieved 83% of the target within 8 months; retention was 83%, and completion was 71%.
• High eligibility (82%) and low dropout (17%) and missing data (0.3%) rates indicated feasibility.
• A significant reduction in the severity of psychotic symptoms was observed in the MI group compared to supportive counseling (P < 0.01).

Conclusions:

• The study confirms the feasibility and acceptability of conducting clinical trials involving MI for acute psychosis in inpatient settings.
• Motivational interviewing demonstrates potential benefits for patients with psychosis, particularly in reducing symptom severity.
• MI may be a valuable therapeutic approach for improving outcomes in acute psychotic episodes.