An investigation of the competencies involved in the facilitation of CBT-based group psychoeducational interventions.

Background: Whilst the delivery of low-intensity group psychoeducation is a key feature of the early steps of the Improving Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT) programme, there is little consensus regarding the skills and competencies demanded.

Aims: To identify the competencies involved in facilitating CBT-based group psychoeducation in order to inform future measure development.

Method: A Delphi study in which participants ( = 36) were relevant IAPT stakeholders and then an expert panel ( = 8) review of the competencies identified within the Delphi study to create a shortened, more practical list of competencies.

Results: After three consultation rounds, consensus was reached on 36 competencies. These competencies were assigned to four main categories: group set-up, content, process and closure. A further expert review produced a shortened 16-item set of psychoeducation group facilitation competencies.

Conclusions: The current study has produced a promising framework for assessing facilitator competency in delivering CBT-based group psychoeducational interventions. Weaknesses in the Delphi approach are noted and directions for future measure development research are identified.