Abstract
Introduction: This group program was undertaken to explore a novel form of treatment for patients with borderline personality disorder in South Australia. The group therapy program was developed by Marsha Linehan in the USA and is one of the few treatment options demonstrated to be effective in this condition which is notoriously difficult to treat yet demanding of limited mental health resources.
Aims and Objectives:
To trial a cognitive behavioural group therapy program designed for patients with borderline personality disorder.
To evaluate its appropriateness and suitability for the South Australian public mental health system.
To evaluate outcomes in terms of objective symptom change.
To evaluate patient and group leader satisfaction with the program.
Brief Statement and Methods: Subjects with borderline personality disorder were recruited from the local mental health areas and referred via individual therapists.
Self report questionnaires assessing symptom severity were administered at the beginning and completion of the group program.
Patients and group leaders were administered a semi-structured interview which provided additional material for qualitative evaluation.
Group sessions were conducted as outlined by Marsha Linehan with emphasis on patient participation, acquisition and reiteration of new skill development and regular reporting of homework achievements.
Results: All participants reported benefits from their involvement in the group program although a significant number did not complete the program. Analysis of data from questionnaires and semi-structured interviews is currently in progress and will be presented.