Doctorate in Clinical Psychology: Main Research Portfolio

: 1) Relapse Prevention Interventions for Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: A Systematic Review; 2) Utilising reflective practice sessions to support the implementation of Structured Clinical Management (SCM) within Recovery Teams in Gloucestershire Health and Care NHS Foundation Trust (GHC); 3) A Qualitative Exploration of Individuals’ Experiences of Partaking in a Blended Relapse Prevention Intervention for Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD).

Abstract

Objectives: Relapse in Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a significant clinical issue, yet there is a lack of research investigating relapse prevention (RP)interventions. Notably, no qualitative studies on this topic exist. The current qualitative study aimed to explore the experience of participants who engaged with a coproduced, novel blended RP intervention for OCD.

Design: Semi-structured interviews were undertaken with participants to gain an understanding of their experience of the RP intervention.

Methods: Eight participants who engaged with the intervention took part in the current study. The interview data was analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA).

Results: Five Group Experiential Themes were identified relevant to participants’ experience of the RP intervention: (1) The Need for Ongoing Support after CBT for OCD, (2) Positive Features of the RP Intervention, (3) The Importance of Connection,(4) Impact of the RP Intervention, and (5) Barriers and Room for Improvement.

Conclusions: The findings of the current study suggest that the RP intervention was experienced as beneficial with it supporting the post-therapy transition and fostering connection between those with OCD. Further research in this area is required to support the development of RP interventions that meet the needs of individuals with OCD.

Date of Award	10 Sept 2025
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	University of Bath
Supervisor	Josie Millar (Supervisor) & Josh Valoroso (Supervisor)