Evaluation of the impact and acceptability of Cognitive Behavioural Analysis System of Psychotherapy (CBASP) for chronic depression.

BACKGROUND

Cognitive Behavioural Analysis System of Psychotherapy (CBASP) is an evidenced based treatment model for chronically depressed patients.

AIMS

The main aim of this service evaluation was to assess the acceptability and clinical impact of CBASP for chronic depression within an Improving Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT) service.

METHOD

Routinely collected data were analysed for all patients that received CBASP treatment focussing on the recovery rates of these patients in terms of depression, anxiety and social functioning. Interviews were conducted with patients who had recently been discharged from CBASP therapist within one month of the follow-up date, explore their experiences of therapy.

RESULTS

Outcome data for 27 patients suggested substantial reduction in scoring on measures of depression and anxiety following CBASP treatment. Across all interviews it was clear that patients developed an insight and understanding of how their behaviours affect the outcome of interpersonal situations.

CONCLUSIONS

Results from this service evaluation suggest that CBASP is acceptable to service users and has a positive clinical impact in terms of IAPT recovery targets for anxiety, depression and social functioning.