Past Research Studies
CBT Peer Support
The CBT-Peer Support program is a treatment intervention that combines both the methods of Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and Peer support. This program is facilitated by a trained Peer support worker with lived experience of a psychosis diagnosis and FEP intervention. The objectives of CBT-Informed Peer Support are three-fold. 1. To support FEP patients in their recovery through individualized assessment and treatment 2. Assess and measure outcomes of different types of recovery and their impacts. 3. Create social inclusion and support through discussion.
vCBTp
In the face of COVID-19, many clinics transitioned from in-person to virtual methods of treatment delivery, impacting the accessibility of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Psychosis (CBTp). While CBTp has proven effective in reducing symptoms and enhancing community functioning through traditional in-person approaches, this trial sought to evaluate its clinical effectiveness when administered virtually. By investigating the outcomes of virtually delivered CBTp, we aim to assess its potential to continue providing valuable support and relief to individuals experiencing psychosis symptoms.
Motivation and Activity Levels in Daily Life.
This study investigates how motivation fluctuates in daily life and how it is related to different activities (e.g., school, socializing, work, etc.). If you are between the ages of 18-35 and your psychosis started in the past 5 years, you may be eligible to participate. This study involves completing two online meetings and filling out short surveys on your smartphone for one week. We'll ask you questions about your activities and mental health. The total you may earn, depending on your participation, is $160.
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Navigating Hypothetical Situations Study
In this study, we are examining how individuals with schizophrenia interact with others in a variety of social contexts. You will be asked to complete questionnaires about how you navigate social situations, cognition, insight, etc. You will then be asked to engage in a short interview about your personal and social performance as well as your symptoms.
Neurocognitive and Neurophysiological Effects of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Psychosis
In this pilot study we are examining the effects of 6 months of cognitive behavioural therapy for psychosis (CBT-p) on
neurocognitive abilities (such as attention, memory, and problem-solving) and neurophysiology (measured through
electroencephalography; EEG). The results of this study will inform the mechanisms by which CBT-p produces effective treatment results so that we can improve the delivery of CBT-p.
Mechanisms of Executive Function Training for Schizophrenia-Spectrum Disorders
Executive Function Training (ET) is a form of cognitive remediation developed by Dr. Best and his colleagues that is briefer and more efficient than traditional forms of cognitive remediation. ET improves neurocognitive abilities (such as attention, memory, and problem-solving) and community functioning in only 4 weeks. This study attempts to determine the components of ET that are responsible for these improvements in order to make the treatment even more effective.
Social Decision-Making in Psychosis
The purpose of this study is to investigate how people with psychosis make social decisions in the context of a computerized game. This study involves playing an online game with another person and filling out a number of questionnaires. This study will help us to better understand how psychosis affects social decision-making so that we can develop more effective social treatments.
Self-Schemas in Psychosis
The purpose of this research is to examine beliefs that people have about themselves and about other people including brain activity that is associated with these beliefs. Using an implicit association test, these beliefs are examined while people wear a portable EEG headset. This research will help inform our understanding of self-schemas that are associated with psychosis so that they can be treated using psychological treatments.
Examining the Role of Failure and Success Experiences on Task Persistence and Neurocognition in Schizophrenia
Sylvia's M.A. thesis study will focus on uncovering psychological mechanisms associated with neurocognition in
schizophrenia. The study will examine how experiencing failure or success effects subsequent persistence and neurocognitive performance in individuals with schizophrenia-spectrum disorders. Additionally, it will examine a hypothesized model in which contextual cognitive-affective factors, including motivation, defeatist performance beliefs, and mood, act as mediating variables that impede persistence and impair neurocognitive performance.