Cost-Effectiveness of Individual versus Group Psychotherapy for Sexually Abused Girls

Background: Children who have been sexually abused may suffer from emotional and behavioural difficulties. Recent research found that individual and group psychotherapy have similar outcomes. In this study we compare the costs and cost‐effectiveness of the two therapies and support for carers. Methods: Subjects were recruited to two clinics in London and randomly allocated to the two treatments. The different components of each intervention were identified and costed. Results: Total mean costs of individual therapy were found to be £1246 greater than for group therapy. Costs as they would apply in routine practice were relatively unchanged. Group therapy was thus more cost‐effective than individual therapy. Discussion: Carefully considering the impact of different therapies could allow more treatment to be offered from available staff resources and budgets. However, this is a single small study and further work is required to strengthen the evidence‐base before change in practice is readily undertaken.