title: Psychological and theological dynamics in an inpatient psychiatric chaplaincy group.
abstract: This article describes the structure and goals of chaplaincy groups in an inpatient psychiatric setting. The article also explores their therapeutic benefits for patients and offers a theological framework for thinking about the conversations that unfolded in these groups. The article focuses in particular on the value of discussion and reflection in a group setting, the significance of receiving and answering questions, and the experience of participating in a simple ritual to name hopes.
authors.affiliation: Phelps Hospice, Phelps Memorial Hospital Center, 701 North Broadway, Sleepy Hollow, NY 10591, USA. johirschmann28@gmail.com
authors.forename: Jo
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Hirschmann
mesh_terms: D002604:Chaplaincy Service, Hospital / Q000379:methods*; D006757:Hospital Units / Q000458:organization & administration; D006778:Hospitals, Psychiatric / Q000458:organization & administration; D006801:Humans; D007297:Inpatients / Q000523:psychology*; D001523:Mental Disorders / Q000523:psychology* / Q000628:therapy; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D011369:Professional-Patient Relations; D012068:Religion and Medicine; D029181:Spirituality