The Process of Group Treatment with the Chronically Mentally Ill

Group treatment has been used with inpatient psychiatric clients for numerous years. Only since the advent of deinstitutionalization have outpatient services begun to utilize this format. Over the ears, mental health professionals have realized that traditional talk therapy approaches do not adequately address the multiple, pressing needs resented by the person with chronic mental illness. A multi-modalry approach that utilizes case management, medication, family support, and group therapy has evolved. Specifically, activity focused group therapy has been recognized as an integral treatment modality. The author presents a model of group treatment and process which underscores the value of Occupational Therapy's contribution to the treatment of the chronically mentally ill.