Group Intervention Framework
Advanced SW Practice II
Group Intervention Framework
Evidence-Based Techniques
Motivational interviewing and trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy will be
utilized when working with the group. Motivational interviewing (MI) is a client-centered
counseling approach used to manage mental health issues by resolving and stimulating positive
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behavioral changes. According to Ellis et al. (2021), MI has been proven to be an effective method
in guiding peer groups in handling victims of sexual trauma. Motivational interviewing is a
counseling technique guided by four principles that a social worker must address: resisting the
reflex, understanding the client’s motivation, empathetic listening, and patient empowerment
(Ellis et al., 2021). Motivational interviewing techniques that will be used include open-ended
questioning to establish the individual’s feelings, affirmations to support self-confidence,
reflections to promote self-direction, and summarizing to support personal progress. Trauma-
focused cognitive behavioral therapy is a psychological intervention developed by Deblinger,
Cohen, and Mannarino (Morgan, 2023). The model utilizes cognitive behavioral therapy principles
to address behavioral symptoms among trauma victims.
Justification of the Techniques
Victims of sexual abuse often experience PTSD symptoms and behavioral changes,
including depression, negative thoughts and feelings regarding the abuse, aggression, cognitive
distortions, shame, and guilt, among other behavioral problems (Ellis et al., 2021). Trauma-
focused cognitive behavior therapy acknowledges the effect of traumatic experiences on an
individual’s behavior and prioritizes healing by confronting the experience and trauma triggers.
Moreover, Spiegel et al. (2022) established that the technique was effective in resolving behavioral
symptoms of trauma. Trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy creates a positive environment
where victims can rebuild self-worth and overcome post-traumatic disorders. The effectiveness of
motivational interviewing has also been examined. A study by Ellis et al. (2021) reported that the
application of motivational interviewing techniques reduced depressive symptoms and increased
engagement levels among sexually traumatized boys and men.