Pilot Study of Online Compassionate Mind Training Versus Staffcare Counselling for Healthcare Workers in Occupational Health Services

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to pilot and evaluate an online compassion-based program designed to support the mental health of healthcare staff accessing psychological assessment within an Occupational Health Service. It compares this program with the usual treatment offered, which is Staffcare counselling. The study focuses on reducing burnout and stress by fostering self-compassion through Compassion Focused Therapy CFT and Compassionate Mind Training CMT. Participants are randomly assigned to one of two groups the Compassionate Mind Training CMT intervention or Treatment As Usual TAU. The CMT group receives a four-week online program led by a CMT expert, including weekly 30-minute videos, audio exercises, and reading materials to complete at their own pace. The TAU group receives standard care through Staffcare counselling, which involves six weekly counselling sessions via the Employee Assistance Programme. Participants complete online questionnaires at four points before treatment, mid-treatment, after treatment, and one month later. These assessments measure mental health, burnout, self-compassion, fear of self-compassion, and treatment credibility. Data is collected securely online. The study will monitor participant wellbeing and provide support as needed. Participation lasts through the intervention and follow-up periods, with confidentiality and anonymity maintained throughout.

A Pilot RCT Examining the Effectiveness of CMT for Healthcare Staff