Effectiveness of group cognitive behavioral therapy for Hoarding Disorder: Evaluation of outcomes

Abstract

Limited research suggests that Group Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (GCBT) is an effective treatment in relieving symptoms of Hoarding Disorder (HD), although interventions have often included more than 15 sessions with high attrition rates. This study presents findings from 24 patients with HD referred to a specialist mental health tertiary service in southwest London treated with GCBT in clinical practice. GCBT consisted of 11 or 12 × 2 h closed sessions over a 6-month period for a maximum of 9 individuals per group. Twenty (83%) patients completed the GCBT treatment. Results demonstrated highly significant improvements in hoarding symptoms, symptoms of depression and overall levels of functioning. By treatment end, completing patients evidenced a 32% improvement in severity of hoarding behaviors as assessed by the Savings Inventory-Revised, with 42% achieving clinically significant change. Qualitative feedback from patients indicate a positive experience in reducing shame and social isolation and in providing peer support and learning. The treatment results are consistent with similar studies describing GCBT for HD and suggest this is an effective therapy model that can be successfully implemented as part of treatment provision in routine clinical practice, with potential cost benefits for service delivery compared with individual home-based sessions.