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This is the second of two papers that present a small, randomized control trial of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) within a group setting for the treatment of auditory hallucinations. In the previous paper, a method was described for an eight-session CBT group. Assessments were undertaken measuring control, power, frequency, and symptoms of distress and anxiety on commencement and on completion of the group. This second paper details the experience of the group and reports on the outcomes of the assessment measures. The study concludes that group CBT was helpful in the treatment of auditory hallucinations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents a small, randomised control trial of cognitive behavioural interventions within a group setting for the treatment of auditory hallucinations. In a sample of 20 voice hearers, 10 were randomly allocated to an eight-session cognitive behavioural therapy group, and 10 underwent psychiatric 'treatment as usual'. Baseline assessments were undertaken. Measures of control, power, frequency and symptoms of distress and anxiety, were recorded on assessment and on completion of the group. The groups achieved a significant reduction in frequency of auditory hallucinations and in the beliefs about the power of the voice. Satisfaction measures also suggested that the group participants valued the group and benefited from the structured sessions. Universality, the recognition that other people experience very similar problems, was one of the most beneficial factors of the intervention. This study suggests that group cognitive behavioural therapy was helpful in the treatment of auditory hallucinations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]