Cognitive and Activity Therapies for Schizophrenia
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests two therapies designed to help individuals with schizophrenia manage persistent negative symptoms, such as difficulty thinking clearly or connecting with others. Cognitive Enhancement Therapy, the first therapy, uses computer programs and group sessions to improve thinking and social skills. The second therapy, Enriched Supportive Therapy, focuses on individual counseling to manage emotions and stress. Individuals with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder who have ongoing negative symptoms for at least three months and are on stable medication may be suitable candidates. The trial takes place in Pittsburgh, PA. As an unphased trial, it offers participants the opportunity to contribute to innovative research that could enhance treatment options for schizophrenia.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications, but it requires that you have been stabilized on antipsychotic medication for the evaluation period. This suggests you may need to continue your current antipsychotic medication.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's treatments are likely to be safe?
A previous study found Cognitive Enhancement Therapy (CET) to be safe for people with schizophrenia. Research shows that CET can improve thinking and social skills. Participants in these studies found the program easy to follow, suggesting it was manageable.
For Enriched Supportive Therapy, the safety information is less clear. However, both treatments are talk-based therapies and do not involve drugs or medical procedures, generally indicating very low risk.
Overall, both treatments appear well-tolerated and aim to help with thinking and emotional skills without significant safety concerns.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial's treatments?
Researchers are excited about these treatments because they offer new ways to help people with schizophrenia improve their thinking and social skills. Cognitive Enhancement Therapy stands out by combining computer-based cognitive training with social-cognitive group sessions, helping participants understand social situations and perspectives better. This approach specifically targets cognitive deficits, which are often not addressed by standard medications. Meanwhile, Enriched Supportive Therapy focuses on teaching individuals how to manage stress and enhance their social skills through personalized supportive therapy. Both therapies emphasize skill-building and personal insight, which are unique compared to traditional medication-focused treatments.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for schizophrenia?
Research has shown that Cognitive Enhancement Therapy (CET), one of the treatments in this trial, can improve thinking skills and social interactions in people with early schizophrenia. Studies suggest that CET may reduce disability by enhancing mental abilities, which are crucial for everyday tasks and socializing. Participants in CET often notice improved planning and social skills over time.
Enriched Supportive Therapy (EST) is another treatment option in this trial. It focuses on teaching patients about schizophrenia, managing emotions, and improving social skills. Although specific data on EST alone is limited, studies often compare it with CET. The combination of learning and support in EST may help patients better manage stress and daily challenges. Together, these therapies offer promising benefits for people dealing with ongoing negative symptoms of schizophrenia.36789Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
The PACES trial is for outpatients aged 18-60 with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder, having persistent negative symptoms for at least 3 months. Participants must be stable on antipsychotic meds, have an IQ over 80, and read/speak English well. Excluded are those with cognitive impairments from medical conditions, substance use disorders, or significant medication non-adherence.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive either Cognitive Enhancement Therapy or Enriched Supportive Therapy for 18 months
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Cognitive Enhancement Therapy
- Enriched Supportive Therapy
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Pittsburgh
Lead Sponsor
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
Collaborator