Whom to refer for group psychotherapy.

The authors believe that group psychotherapy is a useful modality in terms of both economic use of resources and manpower and effective treatment for many common problems. Three major indications for group therapy are inappropriate patterns of interpersonal relationships, the tendency to act immediately on feelings, and the potential or existence of a transference that impedes individual therapy. Patients in these categories who are also in crisis or have a neurotic problem for which the development of a transference neurosis is indicated may require individual therapy instead of or in addition to group therapy. The attitude of the referring physician is crucial; he/she must provide support during the transition and must believe that group therapy can substantially benefit the patient.