While challenges have been apparent in conducting
individualized cognitive restructuring in a group setting,
and early group CBTp trials had relatively disappointing
results
on voice
and positive
symptom outcomes per
se,
more recent therapy developments such as mindfulness-based
therapies
potentially
have
better
fit
with
a
group
format.
Hence use of
groups which combine sharing
lived
experience
alongside structured
therapy
methods
may
be a means of
integrating targeted therapeutic methods with peer support which has long been proposed
by voice hearers as facilitative of personal recovery processes
(see Corstens et
al, this issue). Meanwhile, new
methods of delivery present opportunities, including the
potential for peer delivery and online media to facilitate
modeling from others with lived experience; for the therapeutic
use of
technology such as avatar representations
of voices; and for social networking to promote belonging
among persons with a private
and difficult
to understand
experience.