To what extent do clinical psychologists working in early psychosis routinely explore trauma with their clients?

The study explored the extent to which a sample of clinical psychologists in Early Intervention Psychosis (EIP) services routinely investigated trauma with clients.

Method

A novel vignette-semi-structured telephone interview approach was used. To avoid limiting conceptualisations of these phenomena, for example, by solely considering trauma as a contributory or aetiological factor in psychosis, the study was designed to allow wider exploration of relationships and other key factors.

Results

The majority of the sample reported routine investigation of severe adversity, abuse, or trauma (AAT) with clients, assuming broad definitions. Assessment procedures were collaborative and client-led. An appropriate context was deemed necessary before trauma was explored, including engagement and a psychologically safe environment. The overall findings highlighted explicit investigation of, broadly defined, trauma-related issues within heterogeneous approaches to working with psychosis.

Discussion

While trauma was one key factor, links with psychosis were complex in practice. Participants appeared to operate within a more complex understanding of psychosis than researchers may sometimes be willing to promote.