Efficacy of a single-session psychoeducational intervention delivered in CBT and metaphorical therapy format: A pilot study

Psychoeducation is an important therapeutic process that aims to empower individuals to manage their mental health challenges. This pilot study explored the efficacy of a single-session psychoeducational approach, comparing traditional Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) with a novel Metaphorical Therapy (MT). Participants (N = 35) underwent either a single psychoeducational session of CBT or MT. Results indicated that both CBT and MT groups demonstrated increased knowledge and agency following the intervention, with no significant differences between conditions. Participants expressed high satisfaction with the session and the single-session format facilitated the development of a therapeutic alliance. Overall, this study found that brief psychoeducational interventions exhibit positive outcomes, and that MT is comparable to CBT. Future research is needed with larger sample sizes and extended intervention durations to comprehensively assess treatment efficacy and changes in symptom burden, and to further the evidence base for MT.