Problems involved in organizing and operating a group therapy program in the New York State parole setting

This report is an attempt to relate some of the problems involved in the organizing and operation of a group therapy program in the New York State parole setting, after doing group therapy for a four and one-half year period in a penal setting. Such a program seemed a natural evolution of the in-patient group program, which men left to go out into society with many problems still unresolved. It was felt that it might provide a partial answer to those on parole who expressed a desire for help, or were observed by their parole officers to need and want help. Similar programs are outlined. Material on problems relating to the number of referrals; the criteria for referral; and the psychopathology of those referred, seen and treated is presented. Problems relating to attendance; differences between those coming from the in-patient setting and those referred from the parole officers; adminstrative problems and their effect on the program; and a general review of the actual group operation, with attention to central “themes” and “roles” of various group members, are outlined. Finally, a review is given of the subsequent behavior and adjustment of those involved in the group program and those evaluated but not involved in it.