Work

Relating Therapy for distressing voices: A treatment protocol

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: PURPOSE: To present a treatment protocol for Relating Therapy-a novel psychological intervention which supports adults to respond assertively to their distressing voice hearing experiences. METHOD: This paper reports the background to the development of Relating Therapy. Thereafter, the four phases of the therapy are described: (1) exploring the hearer's relational landscape and identification of patterns of relating; (2) selection of a difficult relationship and a specific conversation, and re-scripting of the conversation; (3) introduction to and engagement with roleplays and (4) reflection, consolidation and preparing for the continuation of learning. Implementation issues are discussed, and the evidence base is reviewed. RESULTS: The findings from preliminary evaluations of Relating Therapy suggest that a definitive randomised controlled trial is feasible. Current evidence suggests that Relating Therapy is an acceptable and safe intervention that has the potential to generate benefits for hearers. CONCLUSION: Learning to respond assertively may be beneficial to some adults who are distressed by hearing voices. A definitive randomised controlled trial is warranted to evaluate the clinical and cost-effectiveness of Relating Therapy and to explore the mechanisms through which any benefits might be generated.

Source: Psychology and Psychotherapy Theory Research and Practice

DOI: 10.1111/papt.12595

Authors: Mark Hayward, Matthias Pilny, Tania Lincoln

Institutions: University of Sussex, Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, Universität Hamburg

Language: English

Topic: Schizophrenia research and treatment

Subfield: Psychiatry and Mental health

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,070