Narrative Enhancement and Cognitive Therapy for Bipolar Disorder
Trial Summary
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It seems likely that you can continue your usual treatment, as the study compares the new therapy to treatment as usual.
What data supports the effectiveness of the treatment Narrative Enhancement and Cognitive Therapy for Bipolar Disorder?
Research suggests that cognitive-behavioral therapy, which shares elements with Narrative Enhancement and Cognitive Therapy, can improve mood symptoms and increase self-control in people with bipolar disorder. Additionally, schema therapy, another similar approach, may help reduce emotional reactivity and improve quality of life for those with bipolar disorder.12345
How is the treatment Narrative Enhancement and Cognitive Therapy (NECT) different from other treatments for bipolar disorder?
Narrative Enhancement and Cognitive Therapy (NECT) is unique because it focuses on improving personal narratives and cognitive processes, which can help patients with bipolar disorder better understand and manage their condition. Unlike standard cognitive therapies, NECT emphasizes enhancing personal stories and self-perception, which may be particularly beneficial for those who struggle with self-identity and emotional regulation.46789
What is the purpose of this trial?
The goal of this pilot clinical trial is to assess the feasibility of conducting a full-scale study to learn if a new youth-adapted Narrative Enhancement and Cognitive Therapy (NECT-Y) reduces self-stigma in youth living with bipolar disorder or multiple mental health conditions. The main questions it aims to answer are:* What is the feasibility of conducting a definitive clinical trial in terms of recruitment success, study retention/compliance, treatment retention/compliance, and absence of serious adverse events?* Can facilitators deliver the adapted NECT-Y intervention with fidelity?* What is the acceptability of the newly adapted NECT-Y intervention among youth participants and facilitators?Researchers will compare NECT-Y to treatment as usual (TAU).Participants will take part in a virtual 14-week NECT-Y group intervention or receive TAU. They will also complete questionnaires at three time points (baseline, post-treatment, and follow-up).
Research Team
Lisa Hawke, PhD
Principal Investigator
Centre for Addiction and Mental Health
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for young people with bipolar disorder or multiple mental health conditions who experience self-stigma. They must understand and agree to the study's procedures, have not started new psychotherapy in the last month, and haven't had a recent hospital visit for mental health.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive the NECT-Y intervention or Treatment as Usual (TAU) for 14 weeks
Post-treatment Assessment
Participants complete post-treatment assessments and questionnaires
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment, including a 3-month follow-up assessment
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Narrative Enhancement and Cognitive Therapy
Narrative Enhancement and Cognitive Therapy is already approved in United States for the following indications:
- Reducing self-stigma in adults with mental health challenges
- Reducing self-stigma in youth living with bipolar disorder or multiple mental health conditions
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Centre for Addiction and Mental Health
Lead Sponsor
University of Toronto
Collaborator
Lawson Health Research Institute
Collaborator
Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR)
Collaborator
London Health Sciences Centre Research Institute OR Lawson Research Institute of St. Joseph's
Collaborator
London Health Sciences Centre Research Institute and Lawson Research Institute of St. Joseph's
Collaborator
London Health Sciences Centre OR Lawson Research Institute of St. Joseph's
Collaborator