DOES SHORT-TERM GROUP-THERAPY AFFECT UNEXPLAINED MEDICAL SYMPTOMS

This paper describes an intensive time-limited group-therapy program c onducted in a busy surgical clinic by two nursing staff with the suppo rt of a consultant psychiatrist. Nineteen patients with chronic idiopa thic facial pain were recruited to the study and underwent weekly grou p therapy over 8 weeks, At the end of the study period, results showed decreases in pain, anxiety and depression scores, along with an impro vement in the patients coping skills. The findings support the use of group psychological interventions undertaken by appropriately trained nursing staff in reducing symptoms associated with chronic idiopathic facial pain. (C) 1997 Elsevier Science Inc.