Motivational Interviewing in Patients with Acute Psychosis: A Feasibility Study

Psychotic disorders are among the top causes of disability worldwide. Guidelines emphasize the need for psychotherapeutic approaches in the acute phase of this illness. Motivational interviewing (MI) is highly suitable for establishing a therapeutic alliance wherein the patient's intrinsic motivation can be strengthened to adhere to therapy. This pilot study investigated the feasibility and impact of MI for patients with acute psychosis.

A feasibility study was conducted, comparing MI and supportive counseling. The sample included 20 inpatients, who all received 4 therapy sessions. In line with CONSORT guidelines for pilot and feasibility studies, we measured various feasibility outcomes. Clinical outcomes were assessed using linear regression models, with baseline values used as covariates.

The recruitment target (N = 24) was achieved at 83% in a reasonable timeframe (8 months), with a retention rate of 83% and a completion rate of 71%. The eligibility rate (82 %) was high, the consent rate (48%) was moderate, and both the dropout rate 17% and the missing data rate (0.3%) were low. Regarding the clinical outcomes, a group difference was found for the severity of psychotic symptoms, with an advantage for MI (b = -12.0, 95% CI: [-18.7, -5.2], P < 0.01), although the small sample size must be kept in mind.

The study demonstrated the feasibility and acceptability of a clinical trial with MI for patients with psychosis in an inpatient setting. MI could offer benefits, particularly in terms of reducing psychotic symptoms.