A new type of group therapy is helping veterans at VA hospitals cope with suicidal tendencies.

Peter Gutierrez, clinical research psychologist with the VA’s Rocky Mountain Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center in Denver, spoke at USC on Feb. 9 about the benefits of suicide-focused group therapy for preventing suicide among veterans.

Gutierrez presented research findings on a study he’s undertaken that uses CAMS (Collaborative Assessment and Management of Suicidality) in a group-centered environment. The patient becomes more involved in his or her treatment plan, shifting the power dynamic between clinician and patient. Patients are able to describe their symptoms and […]