Am J Psychiatry 1977; 134:130-133
Copyright © 1977 by American Psychiatric Association
Whom to refer for group psychotherapy
H Grunebaum and W Kates
The authors believe that group psychotherapy is a useful modality in terms
of both economic use of resources and manpower and effective treatment for
many common problems. Three major indications for group therapy are
inappropriate patterns of interpersonal relationships, the tendency to act
immediately on feelings, and the potential or existence of a transference
that impedes individual therapy. Patients in these categories who are also
in crisis or have a neurotic problem for which the development of a
transference neurosis is indicated may require individual therapy instead
of or in addition to group therapy. The attitude of the referring physician
is crucial; he/she must provide support during the transition and must
believe that group therapy can substantially benefit the patient.
