Group Cognitive Therapy for Depression Produces Clinically Significant Reliable Change in Community-based Settings

Abstract

This paper reports on two studies which slow that cognitive therapy effects as much individual change when presented in small group format, as when presented in individual format to community-based populations suffering depression. In Study 1, referrals from an inner-city general practice health centre were assigned to group or individual cognitive therapy; or to waiting list control, while also receiving their usual treatment from their GP. Cognitive therapy was superior to the waiting list condition and group presentation was as effective as individual presentation. Large effect sizes, reliable change and maintenance of treatment gains at 3, 6 and 12 months are reported. In Study 2 referrals primarily from the occupational health services of large local employers were assigned to group or individual cognitive therapy. Group presentation was again as effective as individual presentation, and large effect sizes, reliable change and maintenance of treatment gains at 1, 2, 3 and 6 months are demonstrated.