Scope

Test the feasibility and tolerability of delivering a package of diagnostic and treatment tools entirely remotely to individuals with chronic psychosis using iPads; explore whether CLIMB improves social cognition, social functioning, and quality of life.

What we did

Individuals with schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder are recruited and enrolled remotely. They complete a battery of clinical and neuropsychological assessments before and after 6 weeks of CLIMB. The CLIMB package includes personalized social cognition training, group tele-therapy, and peer-to-peer secure social networking

Results

The study was launched in July. The first cohort of participants has just completed the protocol. Preliminary evidence suggests that this approach is feasible and yields significant clinical and neuropsychological improvements

Implications

This study will generate knowledge about the feasibility of, and the best strategy for, engaging individuals with psychosis in remote interventions. Findings from this project will be used for a randomized clinical trial that will determine the efficacy of CLIMB improve negative symptoms, real world functioning and quality of life in individuals with schizophrenia. If successful, this approach would enhance the delivery of healthcare services to underserved clinical populations and have significant public-health relevance.

More information

For more information about Dr. Bruno Biagianti's project, please visit: http://www.slideshare.net/BrunoBiagianti/climb-45524874 or contact a study staff member at: [email protected]