Effects of Schema Therapy on Personality Disorders in Forensic Outpatients

The Effects of Schema Therapy in Outpatient Forensic Mental Health Care: a Single Case Multiple-baseline Study.

Not applicable Interventional Vrije Universiteit Brussel · NCT05523544

This study is testing if schema therapy can help people with personality disorders in forensic outpatient care feel better and reduce their chances of reoffending.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment8 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorVrije Universiteit Brussel Academic / other
Locations1 site (Brussels)
Trial IDNCT05523544 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the effectiveness of schema therapy (ST) in treating personality disorders (PDs) among patients in outpatient forensic mental health care. It aims to reduce recidivism risk by addressing the mental health issues associated with PDs, which are prevalent in forensic settings. The study employs a single case multiple-baseline design to assess the impact of ST, which has been previously adjusted for forensic patients to include specific schema modes. By focusing on personality functioning as outlined in the DSM-5, the study seeks to improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are patients diagnosed with a personality disorder who are willing to undergo schema therapy.

Not a fit: Patients with severe addictions, current psychosis, or those who may be involuntarily admitted to psychiatric hospitals are unlikely to benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to more effective treatment options for individuals with personality disorders, ultimately reducing recidivism and improving their quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results for schema therapy in closed forensic settings, but this approach in outpatient care is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* patients with a PD who have been diagnosed with the SCID-5-PD
* patients who will receive ST for their PD
* and are willing to sign informed consent to participate in the study.

Exclusion Criteria:

* patients with an IQ lower than 80
* patients with actual psychosis
* patients with actual bipolar problems
* patients having a severe addiction
* sex offenders
* patients who can be involuntary admitted in psychiatric hospital when they do not cooperate in treatment ("TBS met voorwaarden").

Where this trial is running

Brussels

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Personality Disorderspersonality disordersforensic outpatientschematherapy
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.