Compassion Focused Group Psychotherapy for attachment and relational trauma: Engaging people with a diagnosis of personality disorder

Abstract

AbstractObjectivesThe research aimed to evaluate an exploratory Compassion Focused Group Psychotherapy Programme and the impact on participants' experiences of self‐criticism, usage of services and general wellbeing. Participants included patients with a history of complex attachment and relational trauma (A&RT), who might attract a diagnosis of personality disorder.DesignThis study utilised a quasi‐experimental non‐randomised within subject controlled design for the evaluation of the efficacy of the programme.MethodsParticipants were recruited from tertiary care services. The programme consisted of a 12‐week Preparation and Engagement intervention (PEG) which was Compassionate Mind Training and Psychoeducation, followed by a 40‐week Compassion Focused Trauma Group intervention. The cohort was then followed up after 12 months during which period they received treatment as usual. A comprehensive selection of self‐report measures was administered at various points during the therapeutic process and following completion of the group interventions.ResultsThe results of the research showed that the provision of a long‐term, slow‐paced, Compassion Focused Group Psychotherapy intervention, resulted in significant changes across all measures which were maintained at 12‐month follow‐up. These significant results were maintained following intention to treat and reliable change analyses. These data were supported by a significant reduction in service usage and a significant increase in engagement in employment and education.ConclusionsThis study has identified that within Compassion Focused Group Psychotherapy, there is a therapeutic process of establishing group‐based safeness as a necessary precursor to cultivating compassion and reworking early shame‐based trauma memories.