The most effective and frequently used method of psychotherapy for mental illness, including schizophrenia, is CBT – cognitive behavioral therapy. Many American and European societies recommend this therapy, considering it progressive and most effective.

Methods of psychotherapy for schizophrenia

This therapy option involves combining a cognitive and behavioral approach. Cognitive – primarily a change in the characteristics of the patient’s perception of the nature of the disease. It aims to change in a positive way both the patient’s thinking and the basic patterns of his behavior.

During the session, the patient receives explanations regarding the specifics of the relationship between the manifestations of the disease and the response to it. In such classes, the correct attitude to the disease is formed, and the basic rules for managing mood and behavior are taught.

Behavioral psychotherapy explores the relationship between emotions, behavior and thinking. In these classes, the patient’s behavior is analyzed when modeling certain situations. Further, the psychotherapist forms a certain set of rules, due to which it is possible to properly correct the patient’s behavior.

How does psychotherapy for schizophrenia work?

Clinic psychotherapist Moscow provides a phased treatment of schizophrenia. This method of treatment is carried out in several stages:

1) The patient develops a certain attitude towards the delusional ideas that arise. At this stage, the specialist reduces the brightness of the delirium, and also teaches the patient to be critical of this manifestation of the disease. Thanks to the classes, the patient develops a certain critical attitude towards delirium, which leads to the realization of mistakes and certain changes in behavior.
2) Formation of a strong motivation for treatment, as well as work on the awareness of the disease. Depending on how the patient emerges from psychosis, the patient realizes that he was sick. There comes an understanding that most of the thoughts were generated precisely by the disease. Some patients still refuse to believe in the presence of the disease – they can hide behind the ability to see the world in a special way or even with religion.
3) The work of a specialist is aimed at developing the patient’s ability to control a stressful state and, as a result, emotions.
4) Work on the formation of the skill to plan, immersion in the basics of time management.
5) Work on building relationships in the family. Thanks to this stage of psychotherapy, it is possible to reduce the level of stress to which the patient is exposed, being surrounded by relatives and friends who are little oriented in the features of the course of the disease.