Morita therapy

What is Morita Therapy? 

Morita therapy is a treatment approach developed by Shoma Morita and is most commonly used in some Asian countries, including Japan and China. Morita therapy focuses on mental health from a collective perspective, rather than the perspective of the individual, removing the preoccupation with symptoms and instead focusing on constructive behaviours. While some Morita therapy programs have been updated and shortened (~4 weeks), the original Morita therapy guideline is divided into four phases: a) 7 days of isolated bed rest, with no access to any form of entertainment, b) 4 to 7 days of light work within a treatment facility in addition to monitored diary writing and therapist appointments where the therapist pays strategic inattention to symptoms, and uses contingency management to focus on daily activities, c) a longer period of work (1-2 months) with increasing engagement in more demanding tasks within the treatment facility, and gradual collaboration with other patients, d) preparation for daily living outside the treatment facility (1-4 weeks), which may include commuting to school or work from the facility.

What is the evidence for Morita therapy?

When compared to standard care, moderate to low quality evidence suggests improved negative symptoms in the short term with Morita therapy. Low quality evidence is unable to determine the benefits of Morita therapy over standard care for other symptoms or for functioning. When compared to rehabilitation, moderate quality evidence suggests Morita therapy may be beneficial for symptoms, insight and general functioning.

September 2020

Last updated at: 4:36 am, 11th September 2020
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