Schizophrenia can be accompanied by hallucinations in any of the sensory modalities. In 70% of the cases they are auditory in nature, and in 50% of those cases visual hallucinations are also experienced at some point. Other types of hallucination are less prevalent. But whatever the sensory modality in which they are experienced, hallucinations can be such a burden that they require expert treatment. Treatment usually consists of psychoeducation, medication, psychosocial interventions, psychotherapy, and in some instances transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) or electroconvulsive therapy (ECT).
The present article will focus on medication, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), TMS, and ECT. We will summarize the existing literature and offer recommendations for the treatment of hallucinations in schizophrenia. more
