Before the 1950s, why did some therapists believe psychotherapy is unsuccessful in treating schizophrenia? people with schizophrenia who are not on medication are too far removed from reality to form the relationship needed. insurance does not cover psychotherapy for patients diagnosed as schizophrenic. excessive dopamine interferes with the process of free association that is requisite to the success of psychotherapy. schizophrenia increases the strength of most ego defense mechanisms