Experiences of a transdiagnostic group, the Take Control Course, for clients with common mental health problems: A qualitative study

Abstract

ObjectivesDespite the promising effectiveness findings for transdiagnostic groups, studies have not explored clients' experiences. There is a risk that clients could perceive that the content of transdiagnostic groups is not sufficiently tailored to their specific problems. Our aims were to examine whether a brief transdiagnostic group, the Take Control Course (TCC), was acceptable to participants and to explore participants' perceptions of psychological change.MethodsQualitative data were collected via 12 semistructured, in‐depth interviews. Data collection and thematic analysis were concurrent and iterative.ResultsThree superordinate themes were identified: “Style and format,” “Control and flexibility,” and “Change.” The flexible group format was appreciated, as participants felt able to engage at their own pace and adapt relevant aspects. Greater clarity regarding what was within participants' control reduced distress and enabled effective pursuit of valued goals. Participants described significant (predominantly gradual) changes, including substantial improvements within relationships.ConclusionsThe transdiagnostic format did not prevent participants experiencing the TCC as individually relevant. The flexibility and consistent theoretical framework seemed to contribute to this. The results indicated that greater consideration of control and mindfulness allowed greater cognitive flexibility, an ability to reprioritize and let go of unhelpful habits, which better enabled participants to meet their goals. Implications for group therapy include (a) clearly explaining the format of such groups to clients and (b) providing flexibility in the way the group is delivered where possible. Additional qualitative studies of transdiagnostic groups are required to establish if themes generalize to other transdiagnostic groups.

Experiences of a communication‐skills course for care partners of people living with dementia, empowered conversations: A qualitative framework analysis

“…This is the first qualitative study to examine an intervention for care partners of people living with dementia from a non‐CBT framework and indicates that perceived control could influence how care partners respond to stress and difficulties (Forgeard et al., 2011; Morris, Mansell, Amos, et al., 2016; Morris, Mansell, & McEvoy, 2016). Care partners developed a range of strategies and understandings that enabled them to communicate better with the people they were supporting, enhanced well‐being and relationships, as well as developing social networks.…”

“…The interview schedule was developed based on previous qualitative research with similar aims (e.g. Finucane & Mercer, 2006; Morris, Mansell, Amos, et al., 2016) and through discussions within the research team. The length of the interviews ranged between around 30 and 60 min, and all interviews were digitally recorded and transcribed verbatim (manually by an external transcription company).…”

The Psychological Pathway to Suicide Attempts: A Strategy of Control Without Awareness

“…The new framework is informed by the principles of Perceptual Control Theory (PCT) ( Powers, 1973 ), a transdiagnostic framework for understanding psychological well-being and distress ( Mansell et al, 2012 ; Alsawy et al, 2014 ). PCT has already been applied with good effect to various areas of mental health, including psychosis, bipolar disorder, and phobias ( Mansell, 2007 ; Mansell et al, 2014 ; Healey et al, 2017 ; Morris et al, 2018 ; Griffiths et al, 2019a , b ). Studies on these mental health problems have supported hypotheses guided by PCT, that loss of control and goal conflict increase individuals’ distress.…”