Characterizing the Availability and Quality of CBT for Psychosis in the United States and Canada: Results From a Survey of Early Intervention for Psychosis Programs.

INTRODUCTION

CBT for psychosis (CBTp) is an evidence-based care standard and a core element of Canadian and United States (US) early intervention for psychosis (EIP) programs. Outside of early intervention programs, fewer than 1% of Canadian and US individuals experiencing psychosis have access to this intervention. However, no empirical investigations of CBTp availability in EIP programs exist in the peer-reviewed literature.

METHODS

We investigated CBTp availability and quality among Canadian and US EIP programs using a structured questionnaire distributed to team leaders via listservs.

RESULTS

Across program respondents (Canada N = 28; US N = 48), all endorsed offering CBTp in some form (low-intensity, group-based and/or high intensity), yet few endorsed quality monitoring or ongoing supervision specific to CBTp. We report EIP program characteristics and determinants of clients being offered CBTp.

CONCLUSION

Efforts and resources to enhance CBTp delivery, including quality assurance, are a vital part of enhancing access to CBTp in EIP programs.