Integrated group psychotherapy for the treatment of depression in the elderly

Depressive disorders in the elderly are common, and demonstrate a high prevalence, morbidity and chronicity. Psychosocial interventions, notably group psychotherapy can play an important role in the acute and maintenance phases of treatment. Synthesis of the contributions made by developmental, psychodynamic and cognitive-behavioral group approaches, into an integrated model of group therapy, reflects an ever-increasing trend in the psychotherapy field towards the development of applicable and effective clinical interventions. In this model, the overarching principle is the implementation of a group therapy intervention that addresses the objectives of stabilization and restoration of the individual’s sense of self, increased interpersonal competence and acquisition of cognitive and behavioral skills to aid in coping with depression and demoralization.