Psychological Therapies for Schizophrenia and Other Primary Psychotic Disorders: Toward Precision, Personalization, and Real-World Impact

For many decades, psychological therapies were largely withheld from people with schizophrenia and other primary psychotic disorders (SPD). This was due, to a predominantly biological view of these conditions and concerns that addressing psychotic symptoms through psychological methods could harm patients by excaberating psychosis. Since the 1950s, however, psychological treatment approaches have evolved considerably, becoming evidence-based and now recommended by best practice guidelines for individuals with SPD. Nevertheless, there is a need for continued research to improve therapeutic outcomes for this population. This editorial introduces the themed issue "Psychological Therapies for Schizophrenia and Other Primary Psychotic Disorders: Toward Precision, Personalization, and Real-World Impact." The issue brings together innovative work at the intersection of translational science, personalized care, and ecological validity. The contributions highlight advances in mechanism-based interventions, understanding individual trajectories and treatment responses, and the integration of daily-life assessment and intervention through digital and mobile technologies. Collectively, this themed issue illustrates the energy and creativity with which the field is addressing the evolving needs of individuals with SPD. However, unresolved challenges remain. These efforts include the broad and accessible implementation of evidence-based approaches, as well as the active involvement of individuals with lived experience of psychosis in the development, evaluation, and implementation of new interventions.