REFLECT: Group compassion-focused cognitive behavioral therapy for core beliefs in psychosis
Official title: REFLECT: A Novel Group-Based Compassion-Focussed Cognitive Behavioural Approach to Core Beliefs in Psychosis
Run by University of Toronto · NCT07569471 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This 6-week online group program will test whether compassion-focused CBT that targets core beliefs helps adults with schizophrenia-spectrum psychosis.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 38 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Toronto Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Scarborough Village, Ontario) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | March 31, 2026 |
| Main results expected | August 30, 2027 |
| Study ends | January 30, 2028 |
| Registry record updated | May 6, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07569471 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Adults (18+) with a self-reported schizophrenia-spectrum diagnosis, current psychotic symptoms, engagement with outpatient care, and access to a smartphone/tablet/computer with internet are ideal candidates.
✕Probably not a fit
People without current delusions or psychotic symptoms, those not in outpatient care, those already receiving CBT for psychosis, or those without internet-capable devices are unlikely to benefit from this program.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
REFLECT is an open-label, proof-of-concept pilot testing a 6-week, technology-supported remote group intervention focused on core beliefs thought to underlie psychotic symptoms. Participants join weekly online group sessions and complete between-session exercises using personal devices. Primary outcomes are feasibility and safety, with a key clinical outcome being change in maladaptive core beliefs; secondary outcomes include positive and negative symptoms, personal recovery, and cognitive biases. The trial is run through the University of Toronto Scarborough and uses self-reported diagnosis and symptom thresholds for eligibility.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the approach could reduce maladaptive core beliefs and lead to improvements in symptoms and personal recovery for people with psychosis.
How similar studies have gone: Traditional CBT for psychosis has shown modest benefits, but targeted compassion-focused, core-belief group interventions delivered remotely are relatively novel with limited prior evidence.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. Above the age of 18. 2. Diagnosis of SSD (i.e., Schizophrenia, Schizophreniform, Schizoaffective Disorder, or Delusional Disorder), confirmed based on self-report. 3. Have current symptoms related to psychosis (as determined by a score of 2 or higher on the SAPS). 4. Engaged in current outpatient treatment for psychosis (e.g., medication management by psychiatrist or general practitioner, case management, community mental health treatment, etc.). 5. Has or has access to personal technology (e.g., smartphone, tablet, or laptop/computer) with access to wifi or cellular data. Exclusion Criteria: 1. Not capable of providing informed consent (see Consent Procedures). 2. Does not have an SSD diagnosis. 3. Does not experience current delusions. 4. Not currently involved in outpatient treatment. 5. Is currently receiving CBTp. 6. Does not own or have access to personal technology (e.g., smartphone, tablet, or laptop/computer) with access to wifi or cellular data.
Where it's running
-
University of Toronto Scarborough
Scarborough Village, Ontario, Canada Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Micheal W Best, PhD — University of Toronto
- Study coordinator: Jessica D'Arcey, PhD Candidate
- Email: jessica.darcey@mail.utoronto.ca
- Phone: 647-689-6098
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.