Outpatient Group Psychotherapy With Chemically Dependent and Cluster-B Personality Disordered Male Clients (From Chemical Dependency Treatment: Innovative Group Approaches, P 81-96, 1997, L. Donald McVinney, ed. -- See NCJ-170450)

• NCJ Number: 170455
• Author(s): D C Greene; L D McVinney
• Date Published: 1997
• Length: 16 pages
• Sale Source: Haworth Press, Inc
• Publication Type: Program/Project Description
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: DCC.

Annotation

This paper discusses the dynamics and interventions specific to group work with chemically dependent and personality disordered men in outpatient treatment.

Abstract

The model of group treatment presented combines interpersonal approaches with cognitive-behavioral strategies. it differs from traditional interpersonal treatment by adopting an initially directive therapeutic style with clearly defined limits and norms; introducing psychoeducational material on addictions, relapse prevention, and recovery; and by incrementally advancing a more exploratory and open-ended approach once sobriety and group cohesion have developed. Structuring the boundaries of the group and establishing behavioral limits for group members are essential to effective group treatment with personality disordered and chemically dependent male clients. Self constructs are maintained through feedback loops that require therapeutic interruption and analysis if clients are to benefit from or even remain in group treatment, increase in awareness of their interpersonal behavior, and fortify their commitment to recovery. Interventions focus on anger, group cohesion, dependency/counterdependency, and expanding schemata and strategies. 41 references