Lay summary
This project aims to evaluate the feasibility of delivering psychotherapy for recurrent mood disorders via teleconferencing. The intervention involves Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy (IPSRT) which has a focus on improving occupational, cognitive, social and interpersonal functioning that is often impaired following an acute mood episode and can lead to subsequent episodes. IPSRT has been found to be effective in improving functioning when delivered in-person but it is not generally available throughout New Zealand. If it is feasible to deliver it via teleconferencing its accessibility would be greatly improved. Twenty-five participants from Christchurch and Timaru regions will be randomised to either IPSRT or a control intervention, Patient-Directed Psychoeducation and the therapies will be delivered by trained therapists (nurses, social workers and psychologists). If this project proves feasible we plan to deliver the intervention at a national level.