Groundwork for the treatment of voices: Introducing the coping-with-voices protocol

Abstract

In this chapter, we provide an introduction to the Coping-With-Voices Protocol, a treatment method for voice hearers developed at the Voices Clinic of the University Medical Center Utrecht. The therapy's principal focus lies on the improvement of coping techniques, and each of its constituent parts aims to quickly and simply reduce the distress caused by the voices. The Coping-With-Voices Protocol can be applied by nurses, physicians, and psychologists, although it works best when the same professional can also offer further treatment (in the form of medication, cognitive-behavioral therapy, or both), thus benefitting from the working alliance established during this first treatment step.