LAUSR

. Hoarding Disorder (HD), now understood to be a stand alone diagnosis under DSM – 5 (American Psychiatric Association 2013), and is seen as a severe, enduring and often misunderstood mental health problem distinct from Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). The prevalence is reported to be 2-5% of the population. Research does suggest that Group Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (GCBT) is an effective treatment in relieving symptoms, though there are a limited number of studies. In response to an increase of referrals for HD to our tertiary service in SW London (population 1 million), we have been offering Group CBT rather than individual CBT since 2014. Home-based assessments and treatment were facilitated and delivered by 2 CBT Therapists, experienced in working with HD. This paper presents findings from 15 patients treated with GCBT derived from Steketee and Frost’s (2007) model of Hoarding. Up to 8 patients were invited to participate in GCBT, which consisted of 11 x 2 hour closed group sessions over a 6 month period. Measures were taken at assessment, midway and discharge. Treatment resulted in a significant improvement of 31.2% in HD symptoms, measured using the Saving Inventory Revised (SI-R; Frost, Steketee & Grisham 2004). Improvements were also noted in symptoms of depression (37.1%) and functioning (36.2%) using Becks Depression Inventory and Sheehan Disability Scale. These results compare favourably with similar studies using GCBT for HD. The attrition rate was 6.6%. Qualitative feedback from patients indicate a positive experience in reducing shame and social isolation, and in providing peer support and learning.