A multi?method evaluation of a compassion?focused cognitive behavioural psychotherapy group for people who self?harm

Objective This paper describes the content and multi-method evaluation of a compassion-focused cognitive behavioural psychotherapy (CBT) group for people who self-harm/injure. Method Quantitative questionnaires qualitative focus were used three participants. Reflective diary contents analysed. Results Descriptive statistics to analyse questionnaires. These demonstrated positive reductions in GAD-7 PHQ-9 scores but no significant change self-compassion scores. The Cognitions Self-Injurious Behaviour Scale some belief changes. Participants reported improved self-awareness, alternative coping emotional regulation. All participants anger, anxiety sadness their diaries; one self-hatred, another feeling dead numb. Distraction was considered useful strategy avoid or delay self-harm. Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) identified six superordinate themes: ‘The secret's out! Openness & Honesty’, ‘Care without fear: calm acceptance’, ‘Skills not Spills’, ‘We're all it together', ‘Compassion, competition nor comparison’ ‘Fear flying solo’. Conclusion Despite small number participants, combination therapy CBT appears hold future promise further research on effectiveness.