Assessment of Improved Techniques for Introducing New Patients to a Therapeutic Community

Abstract

Developments in the community therapeutic programme of Fraser House are described. The Personal Adjustment Record, a research and case-history recording questionnaire, designed by the authors, is introduced. Sending the Personal Adjustment Record to newlyreferred patients before their first attendance was followed by a significant increase in attendance. An Introductory Group technique for welcoming, informing and assessing newly referred patients and families is described. This was followed by a significant increase in the acceptance of therapy. The concept of the family as a group acting as a decision maker for its individual members is introduced.