Daniëlle van Duin1,2,3, Hans Kroon2,3, Wim Veling4, Jaap van Weeghel1,3; 1Phrenos Center of Expertise, 2Trimbos Institute, 3Tilburg University, 4University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen
Background: Young people with psychosis have similar vocational ambitions as their healthy peers. However, psychosis and related problems make their vocational participation lower (Hendriksen et al, 2012). Individual Placement and Support (IPS) can improve vocational functioning in this group. However, 40-50% motivated to participate vocationally cannot succeed when offered IPS. Cognitive impairments may be one obstacle (McGurk et al., 2004). Cognitive remediation (CR) has demonstrated improvement in cognitive functioning for first episode psychosis (FEP). Some studies also indicate the efficacy of CR in daily functioning, provided that CR is combined with psychiatric rehabilitation to boost effects (Wykes et al, 2011; McGurk et al, 2007). The present multisite-study investigated whether CR can enhance the effect of vocational rehabilitation using IPS in competitive employment and mainstream education for FEP. Method: Seventy-three people with FEP either received IPS-enhanced with computerized CR (Circuits), or IPS in combination with an active control intervention (computer games). Follow-up assessments were conducted at 6 and 18 months to see whether patients improved vocationally (hours worked in regular employment or education), in cognitive functioning, symptoms, empowerment and self-stigma. Results: Preliminary results of the study will be presented.
