Family-Focused Therapy for Psychosis
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests a treatment called Family Focused Therapy, which involves families in therapy sessions to help young people at high risk of developing psychosis. The goal is to determine if this approach can effectively reduce the risk of psychosis over time. The trial compares two care methods: the experimental Family Focused Therapy for Clinical High Risk Youth (FFT-CHR) and an enhanced care routine that includes psychoeducation. Ideal participants are youth who have recently experienced an increase in mild psychosis symptoms, have a family history of psychosis, or show brief psychotic episodes, and have a parent or guardian willing to participate in therapy sessions. As an unphased trial, this study offers participants the chance to contribute to innovative research that could shape future psychosis prevention strategies.
Do I have to stop taking my current medications for the trial?
The trial protocol does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. However, you must be willing to taper individual therapy to monthly sessions by the start of treatment.
Do I need to stop taking my current medications to join the trial?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. However, it does mention that participants must be willing to reduce individual therapy sessions to once a month by the start of treatment.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's treatments are likely to be safe?
Research has shown that Family Focused Therapy for Clinical High Risk Youth (FFT-CHR) is generally well-tolerated. In studies with young people at high risk for developing psychosis, no major negative effects have been reported. This therapy involves family members in the treatment, helping to create a supportive environment for the participant. The absence of serious side effects in previous research suggests that FFT-CHR is a safe option for those considering joining the trial.12345
Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about Family Focused Therapy for Clinical High Risk Youth (FFT-CHR) because it offers a unique approach to supporting young people at risk of developing psychosis. Unlike standard treatments for psychosis, which often focus on medication and individual therapy, FFT-CHR involves the entire family in the therapy process, aiming to improve family communication and problem-solving skills. This holistic approach not only addresses the individual's needs but also strengthens the family unit, potentially reducing stressors and improving long-term outcomes. By involving family members, FFT-CHR seeks to create a supportive environment that can help prevent the progression of psychosis.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for psychosis?
Research has shown that Family Focused Therapy for Clinical High Risk Youth (FFT-CHR), one of the treatments in this trial, can help young people at high risk of developing psychosis. Studies have found that FFT-CHR can improve symptoms and daily life. For example, one study found that young people who participated in family education had better results than those who did not. Another study with youth showing early signs of psychosis also reported positive outcomes, indicating that involving families in therapy can significantly impact. Overall, evidence supports FFT-CHR as a promising way to reduce the risk of psychosis in young people. Participants in this trial may receive FFT-CHR or Enhanced Care, which serves as an active comparator.23467
Who Is on the Research Team?
David J Miklowitz, Ph.D.
Principal Investigator
University of California, Los Angeles
Kristin Cadenhead, MD
Principal Investigator
University of California, San Diego
Scott Woods, MD
Principal Investigator
Yale University
Jean Addington, Ph.D.
Principal Investigator
University of Calgary
Andrea M. Auther, Ph.D.
Principal Investigator
Zucker Hillside Hospital at Hofstra / Northwell Health
Barbara A. Cornblatt, Ph.D., M.B.A.
Principal Investigator
Hofstra University / Northwell Health
Daniel Mathalon, MD
Principal Investigator
University of California, San Francisco
Holly K. Hamilton, Ph.D.
Principal Investigator
University of California, San Francisco
Carrie E. Bearden, Ph.D.
Principal Investigator
University of California, Los Angeles
Michelle Friedman-Yakoobian, Ph.D.
Principal Investigator
Harvard Medical School/Massachusetts Mental Health Center
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for English-speaking youth aged 13-25 at high risk for psychosis, who have a parent or guardian involved in their life and can consent to treatment. Participants must show early signs of psychosis but cannot have a full psychotic disorder, severe substance abuse issues, or intellectual impairment.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive Family Focused Therapy (FFT-CHR) or Enhanced Care (EC) for 6 months, including family and individual sessions
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment, with assessments at 6-month intervals
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Enhanced Care (EC)
- Family Focused Therapy for Clinical High Risk Youth (FFT-CHR)
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of California, Los Angeles
Lead Sponsor
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
Collaborator