Effectiveness and acceptability of an online trauma stabilisation group in a secondary mental health setting

Abstract

Trauma informed care continues to be promoted in healthcare policies, with psychoeducation groups providing a time-efficient intervention towards this aim. Although evidence for the effectiveness of trauma psychoeducation groups is mixed, they are considered an important facet of the first phase of trauma treatment. This study evaluated an online trauma stabilisation group piloted in a secondary mental health service. Nineteen participants referred for trauma therapy attended a nine-week intervention that aimed to increase understanding of trauma responses and strategies to manage responses. No significant differences were found in pre- and post-intervention scores, with negligible effect sizes. Reliable change was demonstrated in a small number of participants. The intervention was largely acceptable to participants. Recommendations are provided to increase the effectiveness and acceptability of the intervention.