Sustained, multimodal outpatient group therapy for chronic psychotic patients

Twelve predominantly psychotic patients who were at high risk for relapse and rehospitalization participated in a treatment regime that combined medication and supportive and insight-oriented group therapy. The group was studied over a 44-month period during which the same psychiatrist was present. None of the 12 group members required rehospitalization during the study period, and the quality of life and level of functioning significantly improved for most of them. Factors that possibly contributed to the patients' responses are addressed.