Online metacognitive training for distressing beliefs in psychosis

Effects of the Online MCT Group on Persecutory Delusions and Cognitive Biases in Clients with First Episode of Psychosis.

Not applicable Interventional City, University of London · NCT06703827

This study tests whether an online training program can help people with psychosis, especially those who feel persecuted, by improving their beliefs and thoughts over 10 weeks of group sessions.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment72 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 65 Years
SexAll
SponsorCity, University of London Academic / other
Locations1 site (Maidstone, Kent)
Trial IDNCT06703827 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study explores the effects of an online metacognitive training (MCT) program on individuals experiencing psychosis, particularly focusing on those with persecutory delusions. Over a period of 10 weeks, participants will engage in weekly 90-minute group sessions that address cognitive biases linked to their symptoms. The program aims to improve participants' beliefs and perceptions through structured workshops and homework assignments, with assessments conducted before and after the intervention. Participants will be recruited from an Early Intervention in Psychosis service in Kent.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18-65 with a diagnosis of a first episode of psychosis or related disorders and who exhibit specific delusional symptoms.

Not a fit: Patients currently hospitalized, under 18, or with severe cognitive impairments or substance use disorders may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this training could significantly improve the management of distressing beliefs in patients with psychosis.

How similar studies have performed: While cognitive behavioral approaches have shown mixed results, the use of online metacognitive training is a novel approach that has not been extensively tested in this context.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
New inclusion criteria (after amendment):

* participants who have a diagnosis of a first episode of psychosis, schizophrenia spectrum, affective disorder with psychotic symptoms;
* all participants will need to score 3 or above on PANSS delusions (PANSS, Kay et al., 1987)
* are of age 18-65 years;
* are conversant in English and able to read in English;

New exclusion criteria (after amendment)

* current inpatient admission;
* below 18 years of age;
* moderate to severe learning disability;
* severe organic impairment;
* severe substance use disorder;
* inability to speak and write fluently in English (hindering their ability to complete standardized assessments and fully participate in the intervention).
* currently taking part in any other interventional research study.

Where this trial is running

Maidstone, Kent

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 Psychosis
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.