In-patient group psychotherapy: a survey of staff and patients

An in-patient psychotherapy group was started in an acute female psychiatric ward. Staff and patients were asked to fill in a questionnaire about the group. The response rate was 65% from patients and 58% from staff. The commonest diagnosis was depression. Most patients who attended the group found it helpful. They most frequently valued not feeling alone and being able to talk to others. Staff confidence was low and staff resistance could have contributed to the group being discontinued.