Many people who are diagnosed with psychosis are having difficulties with motivation and connection (commonly referred to as “negative symptoms”) that make them the least likely to engage in psychosocial treatments. These difficulties are unlikely to improve, and may even get worse, after treatment with psychiatric drugs. Recovery Oriented Cognitive Therapy for Psychosis was developed with the intent of reaching these people. Instead of focusing on symptoms or problems, it works by connecting with the person’s interests and supporting their aspirations, helping them to recover and gain the life they want.
In a webinar on 6/26/25 (see the recording below), we reviewed the fundamentals of recovery-oriented cognitive therapy, including the basic model and research. We discussed clinical applications, providing a taste for providers interested in trying out the treatment now. We also introduced a new book designed to help individuals with psychosis find ways to recover and live well, along with how providers can use this book in their work with such individuals. The writing process behind the book was also discussed.
About the Presenter:
Aaron P. Brinen, PsyD, is a clinical psychologist in private practice, who employs evidence-based treatments to help people recover from serious mental health conditions. He is also Assistant Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, Tennessee. Dr. Brinen is a codeveloper of recovery-oriented cognitive therapy (CT-R), and has been active in adapting CT-R for different settings and training therapists from around the world.
About the book, Living Well with Psychosis: Practical Strategies for Improving Your Daily Life
While mental health is thankfully no longer a taboo topic, the experience of psychosis is still highly stigmatized. Leading psychologist Aaron P. Brinen busts myths and helps readers build the lives they want in this empowering book. An expert in recovery from serious mental illness, Dr. Brinen provides step-by-step guidance for becoming a strong self-advocate, navigating treatment options, managing symptoms that cause distress, connecting with others, and pursuing school and work goals. The brief, engaging chapters are warm and compassionate, with downloadable practical tools expressly designed to boost energy and motivation for getting out into the world. Readers can read this book cover to cover or dip into it any time they need extra support to live well and feel good.
To order the book with a 15% discount (good through 10/31/25) go to this link and in the box for “special promotional prices” enter the code “MIA2025” then click “apply.”
By the way, one misconception about “negative symptoms” is that they result from something wrong with the brain, some part of a “mental illness.” A better understanding is that they result when people get confused and demoralized, due to confusing experiences and the confusing and distressing ways others often react to their experiences, and they are related to negative beliefs that can change with more encouraging experiences. This webinar and/or this book can help you help others reorient and start having those more encouraging experiences and to reengage with life.
Looks like great seminar, but I can’t join because I’m in Australia and the time difference means 3.30am start for me. Can we access a recording. Warm regarda, Sally
Yes, I edited the post to add access to the recording