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The service user experience of SlowMo therapy: A co‐produced thematic analysis of service users’ subjective experience
Author(s) -
Greenwood Kathryn E.,
Gurnani Megha,
Ward Tom,
Vogel Evelin,
Vella Claire,
McGourty Alison,
Robertson Sam,
Sacadura Catarina,
Hardy Amy,
RusCalafell Mar,
Collett Nicola,
Emsley Richard,
Freeman Daniel,
Fowler David,
Kuipers Elizabeth,
Bebbington Paul,
Dunn Graham,
Michelson Daniel,
Garety Philippa
Publication year - 2022
Publication title -
psychology and psychotherapy: theory, research and practice
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.102
H-Index - 62
eISSN - 2044-8341
pISSN - 1476-0835
DOI - 10.1111/papt.12393
Subject(s) - paranoia , psychology , thematic analysis , randomized controlled trial , psychotherapist , patient experience , alliance , applied psychology , qualitative research , medicine , health care , social science , surgery , sociology , political science , law , economics , economic growth
Objectives SlowMo is the first blended digital therapy for paranoia, showing significant small‐moderate reductions in paranoia in a recent large‐scale randomized controlled trial (RCT). This study explored the subjective service‐user experience of the SlowMo therapy content and design; the experience of the blended therapy approach, including the triangle of the therapeutic alliance; and the experience of the digital aspects of the intervention. Design Qualitative co‐produced sub‐study of an RCT. Methods Participants were 22 adult service users with schizophrenia‐spectrum psychosis and persistent distressing paranoia, who completed at least one SlowMo therapy session and a 24‐week follow‐up, at one of 3 sites in Oxford, London, and Sussex, UK. They were interviewed by peer researchers, using a topic guide co‐produced by the Patient and Public Involvement (PPI) team. The transcribed data were analysed thematically. Multiple coding and triangulation, and lay peer researcher validation were used to reach a consensus on the final theme structure. Results Six core themes were identified: (i) starting the SlowMo journey; (ii) the central role of the supportive therapist; (iii) slowing things down; (iv) value and learning from social connections; (v) approaches and challenges of technology; and (vi) improvements in paranoia and well‐being. Conclusions For these service users, slowing down for a moment was helpful, and integrated into thinking over time. Learning from social connections reflected reduced isolation, and enhanced learning through videos, vignettes, and peers. The central role of the supportive therapist and the triangle of alliance between service user, therapist, and digital platform were effective in promoting positive therapeutic outcomes.