Grant: Planning and Dissemination Grants - Institute/Initiative Community Support

The STAR (Study of Trauma And Recovery) trial investigated whether a tailored Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for psychosis (TF-CBTp) reduces post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms in adults who also experience distressing psychosis. Results indicate this specialized therapy is safe, highly accepted by participants, and effective. This planning grant would support planning a study to research the implementation and effectiveness of this therapy in Canada. Why the Study is Needed: People living with psychosis frequently experience high rates of trauma and PTSD, which can severely worsen psychotic symptoms like delusions and hallucinations. Historically, many mental health professionals have avoided trauma-focused therapies for psychosis patients out of concern that directly addressing past traumas could make their psychiatric symptoms worse. The STAR protocol is a 9-month, manualized therapy specifically designed to integrate standard psychological interventions for both PTSD and psychosis. The Measurement: Researchers measured PTSD symptoms, psychosis severity, emotional well-being, and cost-effectiveness at baseline, 4 months, 9 months, and 24 months to see if the therapeutic gains endured over time. Key Findings: Effectiveness: The STAR trial study confirmed that TF-CBTp effectively and significantly reduces post-traumatic stress symptoms for individuals struggling with co-morbid psychosis. Safety: The research dismantled the concern that trauma-focused therapy causes destabilization, proving it is a safe and acceptable treatment for this complex population. Real-World Benefit: Patients in the trial reported gaining critical insight into their symptoms and practical, manageable coping strategies to navigate their trauma memories.