Studying a Short Virtual Cognitive Therapy to Reduce Alcohol and Cannabis Use in Young Adults with Early Phase Psychosis

What this Trial Is About

Psychotic disorders affect a significant number of people globally, including many young individuals in Canada, often starting in youth or early adulthood. These disorders can lead to difficulties with thinking, relationships, and overall well-being, and also result in high economic costs. Early intervention services have shown benefits, but substance misuse, especially alcohol and cannabis, can interfere with treatment effectiveness. This research focuses on early phase psychosis EPP patients who misuse substances and explores a therapy aimed at reducing this misuse. The study compares a therapy called Action-Based Cognitive Remediation ABCR with standard early intervention care, which includes one psychoeducation session about substance use impacts. ABCR involves 16 virtual therapy sessions over 2 months, using computer-based exercises, real-life simulations, and group discussions to improve cognitive skills like attention, memory, executive function, and social cognition. Participants choose whether to receive ABCR or continue with usual care. Data is collected at the start, after 2 months, and 3 months post-therapy. Participants will share information about their demographics, clinical status, substance use, and cognitive functioning through questionnaires and tests. Researchers will monitor changes in alcohol and cannabis use, psychotic symptoms, mental health, and cognitive abilities. Medication use and healthcare resource use will also be recorded. The study aims to assess whether ABCR helps reduce substance misuse and improve overall functioning during and after the therapy, with participation lasting about 5 months.

Effects of Action-Based Cognitive Remediation on Substance Misuse in Early Phase Psychosis