Evaluation of a computer-assisted cognitive remediation program for young people with psychosis: A pilot study

BACKGROUND: People with psychosis have a range of neuropsychological impairments that impact their functional abilities and rehabilitation outcomes. We designed a Computer-Assisted Cognitive Remediation (CACR) program to help young people with psychosis to restore their cognitive function. The program combines the drill-and-practice approach and the strategic approach to remediation, with sixteen sessions of computerized cognitive training, two sessions of psychoeducation, and four session of coaching on applying cognitive skills to daily life. METHOD: This was a randomized, single-blind, controlled study in which the outcomes of the CACR program were compared with outcomes of a treatment-as-usual (TAU) control group. Pre-intervention and post-intervention measures were compared. RESULTS: When compared with the control group, the intervention group had significant increases in their MCCB neurocognitive composite scores, and specifically in the areas of verbal learning and speed of processing at posttest. They also had significant increases in their secondary outcome measures of mental well-being and perceived occupational competence. There were no significant differences in functional status between the two groups at post-test. CONCLUSIONS: The CACR program was effective in improving overall cognitive function and in the specific domains of verbal learning, speed of processing, and effect sizes were small. Participants also experienced positive changes in mental well-being and perceived competence.