Cognitive Behavioural Relating Therapy (CBRT) for voice hearers: a case study.

BACKGROUND There has been a recent focus on the interpersonal nature of the voice hearing experience, with studies showing that similar patterns of relating exist between voice hearer and voice as between voice hearer and social others. Two recent therapeutic approaches to voices, Cognitive Therapy for Command Hallucinations and Relating Therapy, have been developed to address patterns of relating and power imbalances between voice hearer and voice. AIMS This paper presents a novel intervention that combines elements of these two therapies, named Cognitive Behavioural Relating Therapy (CBRT). METHOD The application of CBRT is illustrated through a clinical case study. RESULTS The clinical case study showed changes in patterns of relating, improved self-esteem and reductions in voice-related distress. CONCLUSIONS The outcomes provide preliminary support for the utility of CBRT when working with voice hearers.