Psychodrama group psychotherapy as an effective treatment for PTSD and depression in inpatient substance use treatment: a mixed methods study

by Scott Giacomucci, Joshua Marquit, Rachel Saccarelli & Haydn Briggs

This is part of an ongoing line of research at Mirmont Treatment Center

This mixed-methods study (n = 60) explores the effectiveness of psychodrama in reducing symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and depression in an inpatient drug and alcohol facility. Quantitative findings demonstrate an average decrease in PTSD by 45% and in depression by 69%. Qualitative data from participant surveys support the outcomes and shed additional light on participants’ experience participating in trauma-focused psychodrama. Both quantitative and qualitative outcomes suggest treatment effects were similar regardless of whether participants were the psychodrama protagonist, played a supportive role, or observed. Results add to the evidence-base of psychodrama as an effective group therapy approach for trauma and depression while supporting participants in their recovery from addiction. While there are limitations to this research design, findings contribute to the research base supporting psychodrama’s effectiveness as a group psychotherapy.

Dr. Scott Giacomucci, DSW, LCSW, TEP is the Director, Founder, & Owner of the Phoenix Center for Experiential Trauma Therapy. He is the autor of numerus articles and books on the used of psychodrama and experiential treatment of trauma and addictions. His latest book is “Trauma-Informed Principles in Group Therapy, Psychodrama, and Organizations Action Methods for Leadership”.

Originaly published in Social Work With Groups