Mental health nurses’ perspectives on cognitive behavioural therapy for individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia: A qualitative study
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Background: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is an effective intervention for promoting personal recovery in people with schizophrenia. In Saudi Arabia, there is a shortage of healthcare professionals trained to deliver CBT. Mental health nurses are well-positioned to address this gap and provide effective CBT interventions for people with schizophrenia. This qualitative study aimed to explore mental health nurses’ perspectives on the proposed cognitive behavioural therapy intervention for individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia and identify potential barriers to its implementation, using semi-structured interviews and focus groups. Methods : Three face-to-face focus groups with 19 mental health nurses from a hospital in Saudi Arabia were conducted and analysed using framework analysis. Results : Three themes emerged: (1) Acceptability–Nurses acknowledged cognitive behavioural therapy’s value in promoting recovery for schizophrenia; (2) Barriers–Challenges included unclear roles in mental health nursing policy, dominance of the medical model, and patient engagement issues; and (3) Facilitators– Mental health nursing management, availability of training opportunities, and family involvement were pivotal for successful implementation. Conclusions : Mental health nurses are supportive in delivering cognitive behavioural therapy for schizophrenia but face barriers such as limited training, lack of role clarity, and organisational challenges. Clear policy frameworks, targeted training, and collaborative approaches are essential for successful implementation. This study underscores the need to revise mental health nursing policies and provide culturally relevant cognitive behavioural therapy training to address schizophrenia care gaps. These measures can enhance the recovery of individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia and clarify the scope of mental health nursing practices. Clinical trial number : Not applicable
