Preferred treatment outcomes in psychological therapy for voices: a comparison of staff and service-user perspectives

Abstract

As access to psychological therapy for voice-hearing continues to increase, it is important to understand what treatment outcomes may be particularly valued by those who coordinate, administer, and engage with such interventions.

Methods Self-report cross-sectional questionnaires were distributed amongst samples of transdiagnostic voice-hearers and multidisciplinary mental health staff to identify and contrast opinions on the importance of different treatment outcomes for therapeutic work with voices.

Results Responses were received by 89 service-users and 176 staff members. Both groups showed many similarities in their view of desirable treatment goals, although service-users were more likely to prioritise a clinically focussed view of recovery (voice cessation), while staff emphasised a more psychosocial view (to live the life one wants to while hearing voices).

Discussion Study limitations and implications for clinical practice are discussed, including the value of collaborative goal setting when supporting clients who experience distressing voices.