Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy in Veterans With Schizophrenia

This is a randomized controlled trial comparing 6 months of participation in one of two
active treatments, cognitive-behavioral therapy for psychosis or supportive therapy in
symptomatic Veterans diagnosed with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder who are still
symptomatic. Assessments of clinical status and social functioning were obtained at baseline,
end of treatment, and 6 month follow-up. We hypothesized that participation in the
cognitive-behavioral therapy would lead to greater reductions in symptoms and distress about
symptoms, and more improvements in social functioning.

Inclusion Criteria:

- outpatients with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder in proximity to the West
Los Angeles VAMC

- at least one month since last hospitalization

- stable antipsychotic medication with persisting psychotic symptoms with at least
minimal distress

- competent to sign informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

- in other individual psychotherapy

- presence of organic brain disease

- mental retardation

- illness that would prohibit regular attendance in therapy

- substance dependence diagnosis in the past 6 months.