A case study of psychodynamic group psychotherapy for bipolar disorder.
BACKGROUND
This study examines the effectiveness of long-term outpatient psychodynamic group psychotherapy for individuals with bipolar disorder who may have psychiatric comorbidity.


METHODS
The Integrative Outpatient Model (IOM) includes psychoeducation regarding illness, illness management, and exploration of dynamic and interpersonal issues.


RESULTS
At one-year follow up, group members had significantly less depressive symptomatology and were less likely to be in a mood episode, compared to controls. There were no between-group differences in manic symptoms or global assessments of functioning. For group-treated patients, the number of days well per week improved significantly; there were no significant improvements in the control group.


CONCLUSIONS
This pilot study indicates that psychodynamic group psychotherapy is feasible as a component of treatment for bipolar disorder diagnoses. The results suggest benefits on depressive, but not manic symptoms. The 73% retention rate suggests that further study of this treatment is warranted, especially in the cases of patients for whom pharmacotherapy alone is not sufficient.
Gonzalez
Jodi M
JM
University of Texas Health Science Center, Department of Psychiatry, 7703 Floyd Curl Drive, San Antonio, Texas 78229, USA. gonzalezjm1@uthscsa.edu
Prihoda
Thomas J
TJ
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001714:Bipolar Disorder / Q000628:therapy*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D019964:Mood Disorders / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000523:psychology; D010865:Pilot Projects; D011615:Psychotherapy, Group / Q000379:methods*