Sussex researchers pioneer groundbreaking new therapy trial
It works by having therapists accompanying patients in every day situations as they happen
Researchers in Sussex are leading a national trial testing a pioneering form of therapy.
Known as "Social Recovery Therapy", it works by having therapists accompanying patients in every day situations as they happen, rather than talking them through in an office.
350 people who are living with psychosis will receive up to 16 sessions over 9 months, across NHS Trusts in Sussex, Norwich, Cambridgeshire, and Greater Manchester.
Professor Mark Hayward, Director of Research for Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, said:
"Traditionally, therapy has been provided within NHS consulting rooms and has focused on reducing symptoms.
"This study has the potential to be a game changer because it focuses on the recovery goals that matter most to people and takes therapy out onto the streets, where learning can feel more immediate and meaningful.
"Rather than simply talking about challenges, therapists help people build confidence and independence in real-life situations.
"I'm excited to see what we learn from offering therapy in this much more personalised way."
The therapy will be delivered by trained psychological practitioners already working within community mental health teams, which is hoped to make it easy to adopt across the NHS if the trial is successful.
Sam Robertson, Lead for Public Involvement in Research at Sussex Partnership Foundation Trust added:
"A key benefit of this study is that the relationship between the participant and therapist is driven by the participant, and the therapy will take place where the participant wants it to take place.
"It is a different and equal working relationship between therapist and participant."
The study is running until 2030.