BRIEF REPORT - Practical Help for the Practitioner

Abstract

Facing a group of patients on a medical detox unit is almost always a trying challenge. On the unit where I conduct psychodrama, the range of patient life experience is extraordinary. For example, a 20-year-old woman may be in her first detox after using crack for only 6 months. Next to her may sit a man in his late fifties with an IV hooked to his arm as he goes through his eighth inpatient alcohol detox. In one hour, I am called upon to work with this group in such a manner that I help them address their addictions in a therapeutic fashion. They are physically ill, angry, depressed, hopeful, and frightened, while usually they are outwardly showing gruff denial.