Interpretive group psychotherapy and dependent day hospital patients: a preliminary investigation

A small group of highly dependent day hospital patients, together with a small number of 'potential' day hospital referrals sharing similar characteristics, were treated in twice weekly interpretive group psychotherapy for between seven and nine months. At the end of treatment three of four day hospital patients had made a successful separation from the day hospital, and at nine month follow-up outcome appeared improved. Only two of the six non-day hospital patients remained in the group, the reasons for which are discussed. The method of evaluation proved manageable, although it would be more appropriate to studies involving larger numbers and possibly control interventions. It is suggested that the role of interpretive group psychotherapy in rehabilitation deserves further investigation.