Barriers to Accessing Psychotherapy for People with Psychosis from a Psychotherapists' Perspective: An Exploratory Study

Introduction: In current German guidelines for the treatment of people with schizophrenia, the highest level of evidence is given for cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). However, past research indicates that only a small fraction receives such treatment. Methods: In order to identify barriers for people with psychosis on the part of therapists, the present study asked 215 psychotherapists in an online survey regarding their views on the indication of and difficulties in obtaining approval for psychotherapy, their training regarding the treatment of psychotic disorders, and suggestions for improving the accessibility of psychotherapy for people with psychosis. Results: Insufficient training regarding the treatment of psychotic disorders was reported as the biggest obstacle. However, approval for psychotherapy was considered more difficult by some respondents. Discussion: Key improvements for further psychotherapy training are discussed, including symptom-specific CBT approaches to delusions or hallucinations. (c) 2023 S. Karger AG, Basel