The value of normalization: Group therapy for individuals with brain injury. (19th September 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: von Mensenkampff, Barbara; Ward, Marcia; Kelly, Grace; Cadogan, Sam; Fawsit, Feargus; Lowe, Niamh
• Is Part Of: Brain injury. Volume 29:Number 11(2015)
• Page Start: 1292
• Page End: 1299
• Publication Date: 2015-09-19
• Subjects: Brain injury -- group therapy -- rehabilitation -- psychology -- psychotherapy; Brain damage -- Periodicals; Brain -- Wounds and injuries -- Periodicals; Brain Injuries -- Periodicals; 617.481
• DOI: 10.3109/02699052.2015.1042407
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0269-9052

Abstract

Abstract: Primary objective : This paper reports on a client-driven therapy group designed to help clients actively process changes and equip them with the psychological skills necessary to facilitate rehabilitation. Research design : This is an exploratory mixed methods research design based in clinical practice. Methods and procedures : This study documents results from five therapy groups, each group consisting of 2-hour sessions over an average of 6 weeks with a review session 6 weeks later. Forty-five clients (13 female, 32 male, average age = 40.54, SD = 11.87) with brain injury attended the group with Headway psychological services, Cork. Clients' pre- and post-measures of functioning were gathered to assess the potential therapeutic benefits. Thematic analysis was used to evaluate the qualitative data. Main outcomes and results : Results illustrate a number of benefits to the participants, including normalizing effects, helping with acceptance, finding a new identity and positive mental health changes. Conclusions : Findings are encouraging and help to validate the effectiveness of group therapy as an intervention tool.