Search

Tom Andersen's reflecting team approach invited family members to hear the dialogues between professionals in response to their stories. This study aimed to explore intersubjective reflexivity during reflecting team group supervision, by observing resonances between group members. Twelve hours of reflecting team group supervision was transcribed and analyzed using Systemic Functional Linguistics. Hallidayan transitivity analysis of selected sections of interaction focused on mental processes, and Martin and White's appraisal framework was used to explore the “engagement” between different voices at play in the conversations. We found the use of physical metaphor to express reflective experiences, multi‐voiced expressions to expand perspectives and possibilities, and dialogical patterns of relating between group therapy participants. Understanding dialogism from a linguistic perspective may offer insights into how reflective dialogues work and support understanding of fidelity for approaches which engage reflecting teams. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Following acute coronary syndrome (ACS), up to 40% of patients report elevated depressive symptoms which is associated with a two-fold increase in mortality risk due to behavioral and biological mechanisms. Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) delivered via synchronous group videoconferencing could help reduce depressive symptoms. Objective: To guide MBCT adaptation for ACS patients for a future clinical trial, this qualitative study aimed to explore ACS patients' (1) symptoms after ACS, (2) needs for behavioral health treatment, (3) perspectives on mindfulness intervention and group videoconference delivery, and (4) willingness to self-collect dried blood spots in a research study. Methods: We compared ACS patients with and without depressive symptoms to highlight particularly relevant treatment topics for patients developing depression following ACS experience. From 2/2019-11/2019, we conducted semi-structured individual telephone interviews with N = 23 patients after ACS (N = 13 with and N = 10 without elevated depressive symptoms; 63.4 (SD = 8.5) years, 87% male, 96% non-Hispanic white, 7.1 (SD = 7.5) years since ACS). In qualitative content analyses, four independent coders coded each interview. Results: Participants with depressive symptoms experienced emotional, physical, social, and health behavior problems, while those without depressive symptoms made positive health behavior changes and struggled with anxiety symptoms. Both groups were interested in a behavioral health treatment for emotional and social support. Most were willing to participate in a mindfulness group via videoconferencing; some preferred in-person, but accessibility and convenience outweighed these cons. Almost all were willing to self-collect dried blood spots and some were already familiar with this technique. Conclusion: ACS patients, especially those with depressive symptoms, need help managing a multitude of quality of life concerns that can be targeted with an adapted MBCT approach. A videoconference-delivered MBCT approach is of interest. Suggestions for adapting MBCT to target the needs of ACS patients are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of a virtually delivered psychoeducational skill-building intervention for ADRD caregivers. Methods: A single-arm, pre-posttest pilot study design was employed to evaluate the intervention. Four 90-min group-based weekly sessions were combined with four individual coaching sessions via Zoom. Intervention components covered topics designed to reduce caregiver stress and distress, and a VR experience to help caregivers understand dementia. Data was gathered via REDCap pre- and post-intervention and through post-intervention interviews via Zoom. Results: Results (N = 20) from individual interviews, surveys, and treatment implementation strategies suggest strong feasibility and acceptability. Key change exploration indicated medium effect sizes and statistical significance in preparedness for caregiving (t(19) = 2.69, p =.015, d = 63), communication (t(19) = 2.45, p =.024, d = 0.55), and a medium effect size for the mindful attention awareness scale (t(19) = 0.48, p = (0.637, d = 0.54). Further, participants reported their perceptions of improvement in outcomes such as the ability to care, increased understanding of memory loss, and confidence. Conclusions: Through Alzheimer's Eyes is a feasible and acceptable intervention that blends technology with skill-building strategies to help caregivers manage their stress and distress regardless of their location. Clinical Implications: There is potential for interventions including VR to assist family caregivers in managing caregiving challenges and improve well-being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Type 2 diabetes is an endocrine disease, the management of which is considered one of the necessities of medical science. Therefore, in recent years, improving the psychological security (PS) of these patients has been the focus of therapists. Group cognitive behavioral therapy (GCBT) is one of the common methods to... [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most substance use begins in adolescence. Both childhood trauma and associated post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) increase risk for early substance use, which is associated with greater eventual severity of substance use disorders (SUDs). When co-occurring, PTSD and SUD can reinforce and exacerbate each other, necessitating integrated treatment approaches. To systematically review existing literature on interventions for prevention or treatment of SUDs among adolescents (aged 10–24) with a history of trauma, with or without PTSD, we searched databases (PubMed, PsycInfo, CINAHL, Cochrane CENTRAL) using search terms related to substance use, trauma, adolescents, and interventions. Searches identified 8134 unique articles, 68 of which prompted full-text screening. Authors extracted data, applied the Effective Public Health Practice Project Quality Assessment Tool to evaluate the evidence, and synthesized findings. Thirty three articles met eligibility criteria, including 13 RCTs. Twenty studies (10 RCTs) evaluated interventions for substance use and co-occurring problems among youth with a history of trauma, predominantly via individual therapy based on cognitive-behavioral principles, although group therapy, case management, and other approaches have also been studied. Interventions with exposure-based components were infrequent but had robust results and minimal adverse outcomes. Thirteen studies examined differential response of youth with a history of trauma to standard SUD treatments, compared to youth without a history of trauma, with mixed findings. Youth with a history of trauma face elevated risk of SUDs and may respond differently to SUD treatments. Several promising interventions have been recently developed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: This study evaluates the effectiveness of music therapy on anxiety caused by stuttering in children aged 4 to 12 years in Yazd City, Iran. Materials and Methods: This is an experimental study with a pre-test/post-test design and a control group. The statistical population of the study consisted of 4-12-year-old children with stuttering referred to speech therapy centers in Yazd City, Iran, who were selected based on available sampling and divided into two equal groups, experimental and control, using a simple random method. The instrument of this research included the Spence children's anxiety scale, parent version (SCAS-P). Children with anxiety in the experimental group underwent music therapy for ten 1-h sessions. To analyze the data, the SPSS software, version 24, was used and the significance level of the tests was considered 0.05. The statistical method of covariance analysis was used to analyze the research data. Results: Based on the results of the analysis of covariance between the two control groups and the music therapy experiment, there was a significant reduction in the average level of anxiety (P<0.001, F=157.045) of children in the post-test stage. Conclusion: Music therapy is effective in reducing the anxiety level of children with stuttering; therefore, it can be considered a complementary method to reduce children's anxiety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Subacromial impingement syndrome (SIS) is a prevalent cause of shoulder pain and dysfunction. This study investigates the impact of virtual reality (VR) therapy on shoulder function, joint dysfunction, and pain in SIS patients, comparing its effectiveness to traditional rehabilitation methods. Materials and Methods: Over 50 weeks, 288 participants with SIS were recruited and divided into two groups: an experimental group (EG) receiving VR-augmented therapy and a control group (CG) undergoing conventional rehabilitation. Recovery was assessed using the Painful Arch Test and Simple Shoulder Test (SST) at key intervals (T0, T1, T2, and T3). Statistical analysis was conducted to evaluate recovery times and functional improvements. Results: The EG showed significantly faster recovery with a mean duration of 6.04 weeks compared to 7.01 weeks for the CG (p = 0.0041), as determined by the Welch Two Sample t-test. The 95% confidence interval (0.3137 to 1.6330) confirmed the reliability of these findings. The VR group demonstrated sustained functional improvements, as evidenced by narrower interquartile ranges and more stable SST scores over time, particularly by Session 18, indicating reduced variability and faster recovery compared to the CG. Conclusion: VR therapy significantly accelerates recovery in SIS patients, offering faster and more consistent outcomes compared to conventional rehabilitation. These findings highlight the potential of VR as a non-invasive and effective treatment for improving shoulder function in SIS. Further research is warranted to explore its long-term efficacy and potential for personalized rehabilitation programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: Tobacco smoking represents a major cause for preventable death and morbidity. Results from non‐randomized studies suggest that smoking cessation therapy in a residential setting might be a new viable way to facilitate smoking abstinence. We aimed to test the effects of residential multicomponent group therapy for smoking cessation compared with outpatient group therapy. Design: Prospective parallel‐group open‐label randomized superiority trial, with assessments at baseline, 6 and 12 months. Setting: Recruitment throughout Germany via media advertisements. Participants: Adult smokers (≥10 cigarettes/day) randomly assigned to residential (n = 157) or outpatient (n = 158) therapy. 51.8% female; mean age 53.2 years; mean years of smoking 34.4. Intervention and Comparator: Residential 9‐day smoking cessation group therapy comprising six daily therapy sessions and supportive interventions for cessation and daily structure embedded in the routines of a somatic rehabilitation center, compared with weekly outpatient smoking cessation group therapy (3–7 weeks) provided in routine care courses close to the participants' places of residence, both including at least 9 h of behavioral therapy. Measurements Co‐primary outcomes were self‐reported continuous 6‐ and 12‐month abstinence (hierarchically ordered). Primary analyses were conducted in the therapy‐uptake population including participants who started therapy with sensitivity analyses in the intention‐to‐treat population of all randomized participants. Findings Intervention uptake rates were 87.3% (n = 137) in the residential and 60.1% (n = 95) in the outpatient group. In the therapy‐uptake population, abstinence rates were 46.7% in the residential versus 26.3% in the outpatient group at 6 months (odds ratio [OR] = 2.46, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.39–4.33, P = 0.0019) and 39.4% versus 24.2% at 12 months (OR = 2.04, 95% CI = 1.14–3.64, P = 0.017). Biochemically validated abstinence rates at 12 months were 33.1% in the residential versus 17.4% in the outpatient group (OR = 2.35, 95% CI = 1.22–4.51, P = 0.011). In the intention‐to‐treat population, self‐reported and biochemically validated abstinence rates at 12 months were 34.4% in the residential versus 14.6% in the outpatient group (OR = 3.08, 95% CI = 1.77–5.34, P < 0.0001) and 28.6% versus 10.3% (OR = 3.48, 95% CI = 1.85–6.52, P = 0.0001), respectively. Conclusions: Residential therapy exclusively for smoking cessation is feasible and effective and could be a beneficial new treatment for smokers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Yalom's therapeutic factors (TFs) have been a focal point in therapeutic literature for over three decades. However, their specific application in group therapy for substance use disorders (SUD) remains underexplored. This review paper is divided into two primary sections. The first section offers a comprehensive review of the literature on TFs in general group therapy, highlighting empirical findings. The second section delves into the application of TFs in group therapy for SUD, with particular emphasis on 12-step programs and motivational interviewing groups. The paper concludes by discussing the implications for future development and enhancement of group therapy practices through the perspective of TFs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pediatric-type low-grade glioma (PLGG) encompasses a heterogeneous group of WHO grade 1 or 2 tumors and is the most common central nervous system tumor found in children. PLGG extends beyond pediatrics, into adolescents and young adults (AYA, ages 15–40). PLGG represents 25% of all gliomas diagnosed in AYA with differences in tumor location and molecular alterations compared to children, resulting in improved outcome for AYAs. Long-term outcome is excellent, though patients may suffer significant morbidity depending on tumor location. There are differences in treatment practices with radiation used to treat PLGG in AYAs more often than in children. Most PLGG in AYA harbor an alteration in the RAS/MAPK pathway, with limited insight into response to targeted therapy in this age group. This review discusses the epidemiology, current therapeutic approaches, and challenges in the management of PLGG in AYA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Low-intensity psychological interventions may be a cost-effective, accessible solution for treating depression and anxiety in patients with long-term conditions, but evidence from real-world service settings is lacking. This study examined the effectiveness of low-intensity psychological interventions provided in the Improving Access to Psychological Therapies programme in England for patients with and without long-term conditions. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on patients (total N = 21,051, long-term conditions n = 4024) enrolled in three low-intensity psychological interventions, i.e. Internet-delivered cognitive behavioural therapy (iCBT), guided self-help (GSH), and psychoeducational group therapy (PGT) within a Talking Therapies service from 2016 to 2020. Primary outcomes included pre–post-treatment changes in depression (Patient Health Questionnaire-9) and anxiety (Generalised Anxiety Disorder-7). Results: Overall, both cohorts significantly improved on all outcomes post-treatment, with large effect sizes. Patients with long-term conditions experienced a greater reduction in depression while those without experienced a greater reduction in anxiety, but these differences were marginal (< 1 score difference on both measures). No difference between the cohorts was shown when comparing the differential effectiveness across interventions, but those engaging in iCBT showed greater reduction in depression and anxiety than those in GSH and PGT, while those in GSH improved more than PGT. Conclusions: Low-intensity psychological interventions, particularly iCBT, were effective in treating depression and anxiety in patients with long-term conditions in a real-world service setting. Our large-scale study supports the continued and increased implementation of low-intensity psychological interventions for this subpopulation via integrated care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this scoping review is to evaluate the effectiveness of mindfulness training in improving functioning in adolescents (aged 12–19 years) diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Previous research has demonstrated that psychological interventions improve functioning in a myriad of domains for individuals diagnosed with ADHD, such as attention training, interpersonal relationships, and social skills. Mindfulness-based interventions (MBI) are indicated as an intervention in attention training. It maybe argued that group based MBI programmes should begin early, for children and adolescents at a time that is critical in their development. Methods and reporting are in line with the PRISMA extension for scoping reviews, the protocol is preregistered in the (Open Science Framework register). The study outcomes included attention, impulsivity, and relationships of adolescents with ADHD. Findings demonstrated preliminary evidence for the use of group-based mindfulness interventions with adolescents continues to be nascent. Although studies reported positive results, the evidence of its effectiveness for adolescents with ADHD is inconclusive, due to limited studies available and the limitations of the study design. This scoping review provides a panorama of MBI for ADHD adolescents. Plain language summary: This review explores group mindfulness-based programmes for adolescents with attention deficit hyperactive disorders. It provides a useful summary for clinicians. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the effectiveness of a 3-session group intervention for parents who had received a diagnosis of autism for their child within the past month. The intervention group (N = 41) was compared to Treatment-as-Usual (N = 40): one meeting with a social worker after the diagnosis feedback meeting. Parental stress was evaluated in both groups within a week and then a month after the diagnosis. The findings indicate an increase in the experienced parental stress for the comparison group on all six indices, while in the intervention group there was an increase only on two indices. That is to say, the intervention reduced stress that occurred in the first month after the diagnosis. Further analyses revealed that parent satisfaction with the group intervention was the single most important variable in predicting stress reduction. We argue that parent support groups immediately after their child's diagnosis are effective and important, and probably superior to a single post-diagnosis meeting. Plain language summary: In this study, we looked at a program for parents whose child was recently diagnosed with autism. We compared a group of parents who went through a 3-session program with another group who had just one meeting with a social worker after getting the diagnosis. We checked how stressed these parents felt one week after the diagnosis and one month later. The results showed that the stress increased for the group with only one meeting, but for the group in the program, the stress increased only in a few areas. This means the program helped reduce stress in the first month after the diagnosis. We also found that parents who liked the group program were less stressed. This suggests that support groups for parents right after the diagnosis are helpful and important to reduce stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Cognitive remediation therapy (CRT) can be used as an adjunct treatment for adolescents with severe and complex anorexia nervosa (AN) requiring inpatient treatment. However, there has been only one study on CRT for adolescents with AN in Japan. This study explored group CRT as an adjunct to inpatient treatment for Japanese adolescents with severe and complex AN requiring inpatient care. Methods: Thirty-one adolescents with AN underwent group CRT. Neuropsychological (set-shifting and central coherence) and psychological assessments (motivation, self-esteem, and depressive symptoms) were measured before and after the intervention. Weight and AN symptoms were measured before and after the intervention and at follow-up, and the adolescents completed post-intervention and follow-up questionnaires. Results: Set-shifting led to medium to large effect size improvements. Medium effect size improvements in central coherence and depressive symptoms were also observed. The feedback from the adolescents was mainly positive, and the treatment completion rate was high. The patients also reported that the skills learned through group CRT could be applied in daily life. Conclusion: Group CRT may be beneficial for adolescents with severe and complex AN who require inpatient care. Plain language summary: Why was this study done? Cognitive remediation therapy (CRT) can be used as an adjunct treatment for adolescents with severe and complex anorexia nervosa (AN) requiring inpatient treatment. However, there has been only one study on CRT for adolescents with AN in Japan. This study explored group CRT as an additional inpatient treatment for adolescents with severe and complex AN requiring inpatient care in Japan. What did the researchers do? A total of 31 adolescents with AN underwent group CRT. Cognitive function and psychological parameters (motivation, self-efficacy, and depressive symptoms) were measured before and after group CRT. Body mass index and AN symptoms were evaluated before and after group CRT and at follow-up. The adolescents completed post-therapy and follow-up questionnaires. What did the researchers find? Cognitive function and depressive symptoms improved after group CRT. The feedback from the adolescents was mostly positive, and 29 of the 31 adolescents completed group CRT. Many adolescents also reported that they used the skills learned through group CRT in their daily lives. What do the findings mean? Group CRT may be beneficial for adolescents with severe and complex AN who require inpatient care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Faecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) is a novel therapy in the field of gastroenterology which has been studied at current times with greater curiosity. Methods: FMT was applied as an adjunct to symptomatic treatment in Canine Parvovirus (CPV) affected dogs for a period of 8 days once daily from the day of presentation. The results were compared with a similar group suffering from CPV infection maintained only on symptomatic treatment. Result: Response to FMT was evaluated on the basis of time taken for resolution of diarrhoea, time of hospitalization, scoring of clinical parameters, recurrence of gastroenteritis within 2 months post therapy of the two groups. Furthermore, adverse events and retention time of the transplant after the procedure were noted. It was observed that the 66.67% (4/6) dogs of FMT treated group had a quicker resolution of diarrhoea (mean 48 hours); FMT treated dogs had better clinical scores compared to symptomatic therapy group (score of 1 or clinically insignificant vs 4 or mildly diseased), lesser recurrence of diarrhoea 2 months post therapy in FMT treated group (16.67% vs 50%). Post FMT one case showed low grade fever (n=1) and epistaxis (n=1) respectively which resolved within 24 hours. The mean retention time of the transplant improved from (20.83±2.39) minutes to (140±12.66) on Day 7th of the trial (p<0.01). Faecal Microbiota Transplantation as an adjunct therapy might aid in early resolution of diarrhoea in acute diarrhoea in dogs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Novel psychological approaches are needed to improve psychological symptoms following stroke. Positive psychology for stroke recovery can support people to shift their focus from disabilities and stimulate engagement with positive thinking and personal strengths. The aim of this pilot study was to evaluate feasibility and acceptability of a single-session character strengths-focused positive psychotherapy group for patients on acute stroke wards (N=19). Feasibility was measured through adherence to session components and participant engagement. Acceptability was measured with self-reported Likert scale mood scores pre- and post-session (0-10). Nine sessions were delivered with high adherence to session components (72.82%). Mean mood scores were significantly higher post-session (M=7.62, SD=1.75) than pre-session (M=5.95, SD=2.80), Z=2.961, p=0.03, with large effect (d=0.85). Findings indicated that the intervention was feasible and acceptable. Qualitative feedback indicated that patients found the intervention helpful and enjoyable. This preliminary pilot study highlights the potential of positive psychotherapy on acute stroke wards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accessible Summary: What is known about the subject: Treatment groups in Mental Health Service is cost‐effective, increases patients´ self‐understanding and stimulate changeResearch shows that people with mental illness have different barriers to attend group sessions which often originates from a lack of trust in other people, but it is known that the possibility to build gradual trust among the participants encourages attendance. What the paper adds to existing knowledge: This study is based on the experience from outpatients and illuminates how discovery groups from the Tidal Model can be used as introductory sessions to build gradual trust among people with mental illness before engaging in a person‐centred group intervention.The study fills a research gap in methods to create a safe and trusting environment in treatment groups for people with mental illness working with recovery‐oriented person‐centred interventions. What are the implications for practice: This study emphasizes the importance of meeting concerns about social interactions in persons with mental illness when joining treatment groups. It presents a recovery‐oriented method which meets this requirement and is easy to implement in practice. Introduction: Recovery‐oriented interventions delivered individually or in groups are more and more common within mental health nursing. However, persons with mental illness may be cautious about engaging in groups. Therefore, it is important to provide a trusting basis in the group to allow for the best opportunities to promote engagement, attendance and impact of treatment. Aim: The aim was to explore how discovery group sessions were experienced as introductory sessions from the perspectives of participants and facilitators before engaging in a person‐centred group intervention. Method: A qualitative interview study was conducted, involving four group facilitators and 16 participants with mental illness from five completed groups. Data were analysed with Ricoeur's theory of interpretation. Results: The findings showed that the two discovery group sessions were experienced as useful and meaningful to all and created a safe atmosphere and a trusted relationship among group participants and facilitators. Discussion: Feeling safe and sharing experiences and emotions contribute to the relational climate in a group. Implication for practice: Addressing concerns about social interactions in persons with mental illness is important in group treatment. This study proved that engaging patients in designing or adapting interventions for mental health services is important to improve quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Depressive disorders are a worldwide leading cause of health-related burden, and a subgroup of depression patients fail to respond to available psychopharmacological treatments, a condition called Treatment Resistant Depression (TRD). While evidence suggests that both traditional and group (IPT-G) Interpersonal Psychotherapy interventions are efficient treatments for depression, few studies have evaluated the effect of IPT on TRD. Qualitatively analyze an IPT-G intervention conducted with TRD patients using a deductive, theory informed approach, to explore how TDR patients understand, contextualize and apply IPT's problem-areas throughout the course of the treatment. 10 IPT-G sessions were analyzed using Framework Analysis. Sessions were video recorded and transcribed verbatim, and participants' accounts were coded with predetermined, conceptually derived codes that were based on the three main problem areas identified in IPT. Following IPT's main problem areas, three themes were generated: "Mechanisms of change—Improving communication"; "Acceptance of loss"; and "Finding new roles—depression, role transition, and reclaiming life conditions." Our analysis suggests that patients with TRD can benefit from IPT-G. Depression is seen as a chronic condition that deeply affects the lives of patients, and IPT-G was seen as a way of promoting change and regaining control. However, we identified that patients to whom IPT-G did not achieve the same effect in terms of symptom reduction have greater difficulty in acquiring and generalizing new interpersonal skills, and often were immersed in severe family or marital interpersonal disputes. Plain language summary: Six patients with treatment-resistant depression were enrolled in a 10-session Group Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT-G). After intervention, two participants did not show improvement in depressive symptomatology, while four did. Qualitative analysis showed that patients with intense, hard-to-solve interpersonal disputes were identified in the group that did not improve symptomatically, and reported having greater difficulties to engage with IPT-G techniques. Patients who improved progressively found more adaptive ways of dealing with interpersonal disputes, particularly through employing ITP strategies in communication. The findings suggest that solving difficulties in interpersonal relationships may be associated with improvement in depressive symptoms in patients with treatment-resistant depression, suggesting effective change mechanisms and intervention for this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High-conflict separated parents (HCSPs) refer to parents who are divorced or separated and are engaged in ongoing conflict. While a large percentage of married couples conclude with divorce and subsequently engage in extended conflict, there is a lack of clinical research and training for therapists aspiring to address this population. As such, this article provides an overview of HCSPs, a framework to understand risk factors associated with high-conflict families, and reviews short-term and long-term negative effects on children and families. This paper also discusses therapeutic intervention strategies known in the literature and predictors of treatment success. Individual therapy, family therapy, group therapy, and parenting coordination strategies are also discussed. Additionally, clinical guidelines and practical tools are shared, as a way to provide structure during what can be a fluid and complex experience. Intervention pathways are described in detail from assessment to intervention to resolution. A case example, based on clinical experience, is also used to illustrate to early-career therapists how one may navigate a case. A review of the literature highlights the need for increased research and training for therapists encountering this complicated and understudied population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Previous research has identified loneliness as a significant social stressor among the older adult population, and highlights the scarcity of empirical research on the efficacy of group play therapy as a method for addressing loneliness in this demographic. This study aimed to explore the impact of group play therapy on reducing feelings of loneliness among older individuals. Methods: A randomized clinical trial was carried out in 2018 on 60 older adult participants from two governmental health centers in Mashhad, Iran. The intervention group received adult‐centered play therapy for 12 sessions over 6 weeks, with each session lasting 60 min. The therapy protocol combined traditional and modern games, structured into three stages: warm‐up, working and closing. The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) scale was used to measure feelings of loneliness at baseline and after the intervention. Data analysis was carried out using SPSS version 21. Results: There was a significant decrease in feelings of loneliness in the intervention group compared with the control group (P < 0.001). Additionally, a significant difference in feelings of loneliness was observed within the intervention group between baseline and follow up (P < 0.001). Conclusions: Group play therapy, involving a combination of traditional and modern games, can reduce feelings of loneliness among older adults. This method can promote healthy aging and improve mental health issues, such as loneliness, among older people. These findings can be utilized in healthcare centers and nursing homes for older adults. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; 24: 1067–1076. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article argues for viewing moral injury as an attachment injury. We show how Relational-Cultural Theory may be applied to treat and research moral injury. We broaden the construct of moral injury, make moral injury more culturally responsive, and outline how treatment for moral injury may be improved. The paper includes a case study to illustrate how Relational-Cultural Theory may be utilized to treat moral injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper we explore and discuss the use of mindfulness in group work. We present a definition of mindfulness along with the differences in conceptualizations of mindfulness-based group work based in Buddhist and other nonwestern perspectives compared to Western stances. A brief history of mindfulness in Western psychology is provided along with an outline of the current research on mindfulness; both correlational research and controlled studies involving specific therapeutic modalities. Future research, limitations, and the use of mindfulness with those who have experienced trauma are then presented. An exploration of existing groups that incorporate mindfulness, is followed by suggestions on where mindfulness could be integrated. Finally, the paper concludes by exploring the implications for social work and the use of mindfulness in group therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Treatment of end stage renal disease (ESRD) is based on preserving renal functions. Since renal anemia is frequently detected, we use parenteral iron treatments in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, there need to be more precise and sufficient studies on the effect of these treatments on the rate of decrease in the glomerular filtration rate (GFR). Therefore, we conducted a study comparing the rates of change in renal function in patients who had used parenteral iron for at least five years. Methods: Our study is a retrospective cohort study, and 180 patients with CKD (86 women, 94 men, mean age: 63.5 ± 11.4 years) who had been followed and treated in nephrology outpatient clinics for at least five years and met the study criteria were included in the study. Patients were divided into three groups for iron therapy: not receiving iron therapy, iron carboxy maltose (ICM), and iron sucrose (IS) parenterally. Each group consisted of 60 people. The first and last creatinine and GFR values were compared for a 5-year follow-up in each group. Results: There was no significant difference between the two groups, those using and those not using iron, regarding creatinine increase and GFR decrease rate. Additionally, no significant difference was detected in the GFR decline rates of patients using ICM and IS. Conclusions: This study reduces the concerns that correcting anemia through parenteral iron therapy in patients with CKD may harm renal function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thailand is a country with a high proportion of methamphetamine substance abuse users, and the trend is increasing. Methamphetamine is a highly addictive stimulant affecting the central nervous system. Amphetamine addicts are mostly male. Amphetamine addiction is a serious problem often caused by poor attachment in childhood, leading to stress and anxiety, and therefore requires special therapy. A psychotherapy program using mentalization-based group therapy was undertaken in our quasi-experimental study. Programs like this have met with success in several countries. We aimed to test the effectiveness of mentalization-based group therapy on the sense of coherence and self-care behavior among males undergoing recovery from amphetamine dependence at two substance rehabilitation hospitals in southern Thailand. One hospital was the experimental setting, and the other was the control setting. The participants from the two settings were purposively selected and matched by age. The experimental group (n = 32) received the program, and the control group (n = 32) received only usual care. Instruments used for the data collection were a Demographic Data Form, the Sense of Coherence Scale, and the Self-care Behavior Scale. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Chi-square statistics, paired t-tests, and MANCOVA. Results revealed that after receiving the program, the mean scores in the experimental group's sense of coherence and self-care behaviors were significantly higher than before the program and those of the control group. Advanced practice nurses with special training can apply this program among males with amphetamine dependence. However, comparing the changes in the sense of coherence and self-care behaviors with a longer follow-up is recommended for further study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This pilot proof-of-concept study examined the feasibility and acceptability of the Daily Progress System (DPS), a web-based platform designed to improve treatment engagement and retention among clients in outpatient substance use treatment. Methods: The study included adults under justice supervision in the community (probation or parole) who were clients at an outpatient treatment program (N = 30; 60% males). Participants were instructed to utilize the DPS daily for 4 weeks. Incentives were paid to participants for using the platform. At the end of the study, they completed a post-satisfaction questionnaire. Results: Of the 30 participants enrolled in the study, 28 (93.3%) completed the post-satisfaction questionnaire. Overall, they were extremely satisfied with the platform as 21/30 (70.0%) logged into the DPS on a daily basis and completed at least 15 daily surveys or more over the 30-day study period and 27/28 (96.5%) would recommend that the participating treatment program use the platform as part of treatment for other clients. Conclusions: The DPS was well-utilized and perceived as valuable by this group of justice involved, low-income, underserved, and hard-to-reach individuals. Further research is needed to refine platform content and evaluate its ability to meaningfully enhance and extend the benefits of treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dual relationships in the training and treatment of group therapists are inherent and endemic to the profession of psychoanalytic group therapy. Independently of theoretical orientation at many training institutes, senior group leaders double as training group analysts, teachers, supervisors, administrators, friends, and sometimes even relatives of group trainees. Further, these trainees are often in the same treatment groups, supervision groups, and classes with each other and may also be friends and relatives. These complicated relationships often blur the boundaries between therapy and not therapy, and they have an incestuous quality. They may even produce iatrogenic treatment reactions when realistic negative perceptions are interpreted as transference and resistance. This can be harmful and can lead to the development of ethical dilemmas and clinical boundary violations. This brief report presents the author's experience leading an open session at AGPA's 2024 Annual Conference that addresses attendees' concerns about this troubling situation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current paper was the presidential address given at the 2024 Connect Conference of the American Group Psychotherapy Association (AGPA). In the paper, the author weaves together three threads. In each of seven decades, the author offers an example of turbulence occurring in society, pairing those with the events of her life during that period and then noting some intentional and thoughtful decisions made by AGPA leadership to create necessary change and growth. The author focused on the earlier decades, as readers will be more familiar with current years. The author invites resonance with personal turbulence faced by the reader and the victories achieved after encountering extraordinary challenges over the years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The American Group Psychotherapy Association (AGPA) hosts the Anne and Ramon Alonso Plenary Address each year at its annual conference. In his 2020 plenary address, the newly elected president, Dr. Molyn Leszcz discusses the ways that group therapy has shaped him and meaningfully guided him in his clinical, professional, and organizational roles. Dr. Leszcz illustrates the great value group therapy and group therapists can provide to contemporary society. We are an invaluable clinical resource both for treatment and for addressing current societal challenges with regard to social isolation, polarization and discrimination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Complicated grief can affect a large number of individuals who have lost a relative due to cancer. Objectives: To assess the efficacy of a cognitive–behavioral grief therapy (CBGT) group for complicated grief (CG) in those who have lost a relative due to cancer in comparison with a psychoeducational and emotional expression intervention group (PSDEEI). Methods: A randomized clinical trial was used, in which 249 relatives of deceased cancer patients with CG were randomly assigned to CBGT or PSDEEI. Complicated grief (Inventory of Complicated Grief [ICG]), depression (Beck Depression Inventory [BDI-II]), hopelessness (Beck Hopelessness Scale [BHS]), anxiety (Beck Anxiety Inventory [BAI]) symptoms, and general health (Goldberg's General Health Questionnaire [GHQ28]) were assessed at pretreatment, posttreatment, and follow-up at 6 and 12 months. Results: The CBGT group improved significantly (p  < 0.001), with the scores in ICG, BDI-II, BAI, BHS, and GHQ28 (p  < 0.001) being higher than those for the PSDEEI group in each of the assessed moments, with high effect sizes: ICG (η 2 = 0.16), BDI (η 2 = 0.10), BAI (η 2 = 0.06), BHS (η 2 = 0.21), and GHQ28 (η 2 = 0.21). At the 12-month follow-up, the number of cases of CG decreased by 81.1% for the CBGT group vs. 31.7% in the PSDEEI group. Significance of results: The CBGT treatment was effective for CG, depression, anxiety, and hopelessness symptoms and for mental health and was superior to the PSDEEI treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The shortage of adequately trained healthcare providers (HCPs) able to treat adults who have experienced childhood interpersonal trauma (CIT) is a pressing concern. This study explored HCPs’ training needs for a trauma-focused psychoeducational group intervention and the potential barriers and facilitators to accessing such training. Three 1-hour focus group sessions were conducted with HCPs (n = 17) from two urban and one rural community healthcare organization serving diverse populations in Ontario, Canada, including under-housed people, women struggling with mental health and addiction, and LGBTQ+ populations. On average, participants had 2.4 years in their current role and 18.1 years of mental health field experience. Thematic analysis revealed key findings: a strong clinical need for trauma services, accessible training programs, and broadly applicable interventions relevant for diverse populations. Notably, participants emphasized the clinical advantages and increased accessibility of a virtual training programs focused on psychoeducational treatment interventions, particularly within community-based healthcare settings. This study highlights the potential of a virtual psychoeducational training programs for HCPs to address this critical gap in healthcare provision for individual with CIT. It also underscores the need to move beyond training program development and focus on implementation and sustainability of interventions in clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: There are few publications concerning ankyloglossia in mixed-aged groups utilizing myofunctional therapy and frenuloplasty in patients undergoing orthodontic treatment and maxillofacial surgery. While it is well known that ankyloglossia is mainly diagnosed in babies, research on functional and structural disorders in different age groups is less common. Thus, there is a high need for specific information about the influence and effectiveness of frenuloplasty with myofunctional therapy on the stomatognathic function and final treatment outcome for a wider variety of patients, especially those with maxillofacial deformities. Aim: This paper aims to evaluate the impact of lingual frenuloplasty as an adjunct to myofunctional therapy for the treatment of ankyloglossia in children and adults with maxillofacial deformity. Methods: Prospective randomized control trial with 155 subjects. Methods were based on visual observation and examination of the oral cavity. There were two groups: myofunctional therapy vs. myofunctional therapy and lingual frenuloplasty. Patients were randomized based on order of entry into the study. χ2 test, Kruskal–Wallis, ANOVA, Student's t-test and others were used for statistical analyses. Results: The presented protocol with myofunctional therapy and surgical procedures proved to be significantly more effective in improving tongue mobility and stomatognathic functions such as swallowing, breathing, and oral resting postures as compared to the reference group who underwent myofunctional therapy only. Conclusions: Lingual frenuloplasty with myofunctional therapy is highly effective in restoring the equilibrium of the orofacial muscles and the skeleton, which is often disturbed and may lead to unstable functional effects among patients considering orthodontic and orthognathic treatments for maxillofacial deformities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To review the international evidence base on interventions to support the mental health of family carers of children with brain injuries in low and middle income countries (LMIC). Methods: Searches were conducted with five electronic databases (Pubmed, Web of Science, Embase, PsycINFO, CINAHL) using search terms related to "family carers", "brain injury", "children" and "low and middle income countries". Studies were independently screened using predetermined eligibility criteria by two authors. Data were extracted from included studies using standardised data extraction and quality appraisal tools. These data were then subjected to narrative synthesis. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were used to govern the review process. Findings: One study met our inclusion criteria and described an acquired brain injury called nodding syndrome which occurs in Sub-Saharan Africa. The study was conducted in Ghana and provided group-based psychotherapy to carers and their children. As such we found no study which sought to solely support the mental health of family carers. Conclusions: There has been a lack of focus in the literature on the mental health of family carers of children with brain injuries in LMIC. Considering the vital importance of caregivers in supporting their children it is imperative that service providers and researchers devise programmes to better meet their needs. The mental health of family carers should be better supported to improve their overall wellbeing, which will in turn improve the wellbeing of their children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Psychedelics, combined with talk therapy, indicate promise with challenging clients, such as those struggling with PTSD. Furthermore, groupwork, with the emphasis on social connections, can be an effective modality. There appears, however, little movement with integrating psychedelics with professional counseling and even less in groupwork. Societal perceptions of psychedelics and the concern of practicing outside one's scope may cause practitioners to hesitate. This article provides a brief overview for the lack of progression in implementing psychedelics in group counseling. I explain what potentially inhibits the utilization of psychedelics, then offer a resolution to these issues by advocating for a psychedelic-assisted groupwork (PAG) model. The argument is that psychedelic approaches can be an innovative and transformative method for group facilitators. I conclude with an overview depicting what a PAG with an interdisciplinary team could entail, including recruitment, screening, selection, therapeutic processes, and termination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Primary progressive aphasia (PPA) is a neurodegenerative condition characterised by a prominent and progressive deterioration in language abilities, which significantly impacts quality of life and interpersonal relationships. Speech and language therapy plays a crucial role in offering interventions. Group intervention is one mode of delivery that could benefit communication functioning and overall wellbeing of people with PPA (pwPPA) and their care partners. Group interventions are also more efficient than one‐to‐one intervention and may facilitate peer support. Aims: The aim of this review was to systematically evaluate the current evidence for the effectiveness of speech and language therapy groups for pwPPA and their care partners. Specifically, this paper considered three questions: 1.What evidence‐based speech and language therapy groups for pwPPA and their care partners have been reported to date?2.Are group communication interventions effective in improving quality of life and communication function for pwPPA and their care partners?3.Are group communication interventions that are designed for people with communication difficulties of other aetiologies (such as stroke) effective for pwPPA? In addition, this review aimed to describe the structure and content of groups, including aims, disciplines involved, size and frequency of group meetings, and outcome measures. Methods: MEDLINE, CINAHL and PsycINFO were used to retrieve articles of interest. A total of 10 studies published between 2009 and 2022 met the eligibility criteria and therefore were included in this study. Data were extracted from the articles regarding the structure and content of groups. Main Contribution: Although evidence is currently limited, results suggest that speech and language therapy group intervention can improve specific linguistic processes, the use of communication strategies and psychosocial well‐being. The importance of multidisciplinary input and care partners' involvement in groups was highlighted, along with the benefits of creative non‐verbal activities as tools for self‐expression. There is also initial evidence that telehealth group provision and one‐off group sessions may be feasible and can benefit psychosocial well‐being. Lastly, intentional recruitment and explicit education on different aphasia types are described as important when pwPPA participate in groups with mixed diagnoses. Conclusions: The literature on speech and language therapy group interventions for PPA shows promise of positive effects on communication function and psychosocial well‐being of both pwPPA and their care partners. Speech and language therapists can consider these published interventions when designing and implementing similar groups, but more robust evidence is required to confirm the relative effectiveness of this approach. What this paper adds: What is already known on this subject: Speech pathology led group intervention shows some promise in benefitting communication functioning and overall well‐being of pwPPA and their carers, but there has been no systematic evaluation of all the evidence regarding the efficacy of speech and language therapy led groups.Establishing feasibility, acceptability and efficacy of speech and language therapy group interventions for pwPPA and their carers may present a valuable addition for managing this progressive language disability. What this paper adds to existing knowledge: Although evidence is currently limited, results from this systematic review suggest that speech and language therapy led group intervention can improve specific linguistic processes, the use of communication strategies and psychosocial well‐being for pwPPA and their carers.The importance of multidisciplinary input and carers' involvement in groups was highlighted, along with the benefits of creative non‐verbal activities as tools for self‐expression. There is also initial evidence that telehealth group provision for carers may be feasible and can benefit psychosocial wellbeing.Lastly, intentional recruitment and explicit education on different aphasia types are described as important when pwPPA participate in groups with mixed diagnoses. What are the potential or actual clinical implications of this work?: A synthesis of the evidence base for speech and language therapy led PPA groups, as well as a description of the group components and formats, will be valuable for clinical service planning, and will guide future examination of group options for pwPPA and their carers.Speech and language therapists can also consider the research findings from this systematic review when designing and implementing similar groups in their local context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. To explore PTEN-induced putative kinase 1 (PINK1) expression and its clinical value in diabetic nephropathy. Methods. Ninety patients with diabetic nephropathy were recruited and divided into metformin hydrochloride monotherapy group, telmisartan monotherapy group and combination therapy (metformin and telmisartan) group. Renal function indices and PINK1 expression, inflammatory factors, reactive oxygen species (ROS), mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) levels were detected. The correlation between PINK1 and inflammatory factors, renal function indicators including estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR) and serum creatinine (SCr)] were analyzed by Pearson correlation. Results. Following treatments, the combination therapy group exhibited increased PINK1 expression levels and decreased ROS levels compared to the groups receiving metformin hydrochloride or telmisartan monotherapy. The combination therapy group showed significant improvements in renal function indices and inflammatory markers. Additionally, the MMP ratio in the combination therapy group was higher compared to the two monotherapy groups. Furthermore, PINK1 was negatively correlated with UACR, SCr, tumor necrosis factor (TNF-a) and interleukin-6 (IL-6), while positively correlated with eGFR and interleukin-2 (IL-2). Conclusion. PINK1 exhibits low expression levels in patients with diabetic nephropathy and its expression is strongly associated with the inhibition of disease progression, thereby offering significant clinical diagnostic value. Additionally, it may serve as a potential biological marker for clinical diagnosis and treatment of diabetic nephropathy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives. Haematopoietic cell transplant (HCT) is a cellular therapy for a group of high‐risk children with cancer, immunodeficiency and metabolic disorders. Whilst curative for a child's underlying condition, HCT has significant risks associated, including lung injury. These complications are associated with increased post HCT mortality and require improved methods of risk stratification, diagnosis and treatment. Methods. Biomarkers measured in bronchoalveolar fluid and peripheral blood have been identified for both acute and chronic lung injury post HCT.This review evaluates the current research available investigating the use of these biomarkers to improve clinical care, with a focus on the paediatric cohort. Results. Elevated levels of cytokines such as IL‐6, IL‐8, G‐CSF and TNF were identified as potential predictive biomarkers for the development of post HCT lung disease. The pulmonary microbiome was found to have strong potential as a biomarker pre and post HCT for the development of pulmonary complications. General limitations of the studies identified were study design, retrospective or single centre and not exclusively performed in the paediatric population. Conclusion. To translate biomarker discovery into clinical implementation further research is required, utilising larger cohorts of children in prospective trials to validate these biomarkers and determine how they can be translated into better outcomes for children post HCT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Youth with a chronic medical condition (CMC) are often affected by comorbid mental disorders. Resilience-strengthening interventions can protect youth's mental health, yet evidence-based programs remain scarce. To address this lack, this study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of a dual approach combining app-based resilience training and cognitive behavioral group coaching. Fifty-one youths with CMC treated at a German university children's hospital aged 12–16 years were recruited. They were randomly assigned to a combined app game and coaching intervention or sole app gameplay. At pre-, post-intervention, and at a 2-month follow-up resilience, automatic negative thoughts and an app and coaching evaluation were assessed. Feasibility was defined as a recruitment rate of 70%, an 85% adherence rate for the REThink game, and 70% participation in both coaching sessions. Feasibility criteria were reached for coaching participation but not for recruitment or app adherence. While both the REThink game app and coaching intervention had high acceptance rates among youth with CMC, participants receiving additional coaching sessions showed higher satisfaction and adherence rates. Participants preferred remote to in-person meetings. The findings support a combination of a gamification app approach with online group coaching. Group coaching can improve adherence while online options increase accessibility. Future research should focus on testing in diverse participant samples, language, and age-adapted updates of the REThink game app. These findings provide guidance for increasing adherence in future intervention studies in youth with CMC cohorts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salivary gland cancers (SGC) are rare tumours with limited availability of systemic therapies. Some SGC subtypes overexpress HER2, and this represents a potential therapeutic target, but the evidence base is limited. This study sought to analyse real-world data on the efficacy of HER2-directed therapies in SGC. This is a retrospective observational study using anonymised data from commercial compassionate-use access registrations and a privately funded pharmacy prescribing register. Treatment duration was defined as the time from drug initiation to treatment discontinuation. Kaplan–Meier analysis of treatment duration was performed using R for Windows (v4.3.2). A case report is also provided of an exceptional responder. Eighteen patients were identified who received HER2-directed therapies for HER2-positive recurrent/metastatic SGC, and complete data on treatment duration was available for 15/18. Histology was salivary duct carcinoma in 13/18 patients, adenocarcinoma NOS in 4/18, and carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma in 1/18. The median treatment duration was 8.3 months (95% CI: 6.41-not reached), and the range was 1.0–47.0 months. Choice of HER2-directed therapy varied, with ado-trastuzumab emtasine being the most common (9/18). At the time of analysis, HER2-directed therapy was ongoing for 9/15, discontinued due to disease progression for 4/15, discontinued due to toxicity for 1/15, and 1/15 was discontinued for an unspecified reason. An exceptional responder experienced a complete response with a treatment duration of 47.0 months. These real-world data are comparable to the median PFS observed with HER2-directed therapies in phase II trials and support the use of HER2-directed therapies in this group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]