Multifamily Group for Bipolar Illness
| Manual Title |
Multifamily Group for Bipolar Illness |
| Creator |
Newmark, M.S.W. |
| Reference |
Moltz, D.A., & Newmark, M. (2002). Multifamily groups
for bipolar illness (pp. 220-243). In W. R. McFarlane (Ed.)'s Multifamily
groups in the treatment of severe psychiatric disorders. New
York: Guilford. |
| Price |
$38.00 |
| Contact Information: |
David A. Moltz, MD
Sweetser Community Support
Services 76 Pleasant Street Brunswick, ME 04011
Phone: 207-729-1631
FAX: 207-721-3188
Email: dmoltz@sweetser.org
|
Program Overview:
Theoretical Orientation:
Moltz's program is an application of McFarlane's multi-family group
(MFG) model to bipolar disorder. This program also includes some
narrative therapy concepts (e.g., externalizing the illness).
Phases of Treatment:
Note: book chapter contains 3 detailed, long, specific outlines
of Joining Sessions; Workshop; & Family Guidelines for Bipolar
Illness
- Joining
- At least 3 initial joining sessions are conducted separately for
the patient and the family (to avoid any escalating conflict). This
phase includes an assessment of symptoms, precipitants of episodes,
attitudes / attributions for the illness, and inter-episode functioning.
- Conjoint sessions then include a review of each person's experience
of the illness, common family themes, and preparation for the workshop
and subsequent multi-family groups.
- Psychoeducational Workshop
- The workshop (which includes the patients) provides didactic information
about: the nature and causes of bipolar disorder; common effects
on the family; treatment issues; & what families can do to cope
with the disorder.
- Guidelines for families are presented (e.g., assuring safety (for
everyone); setting limits as needed; clear, simple & direct communication;
allowing space; supporting medication & treatment; caring for
the rest of the family; talking together and planning between episodes).
- In addition, a panel of community providers (e.g., police, ER staff,
inpatient staff) provides tips on accessing community resources.
- Multi-family group meetings (ongoing)
- Session structure includes: 10 minutes of socializing; go-round (check-in);
group problem-solving for one family's specific problem; 10 minutes
of socializing
- Characteristic themes that emerge include: hypervigilance (worrying
about a recurrence); differentiation between the illness & the
patient's personality; stigma
Research: None. (Chapter describes positive anecdotal information about patients and family members' experiences)
Note: Above description reviewed and approved by Dr. Moltz,
11-22-02
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