Therapeutic group for family caregivers in Primary Health Care: five steps for group facilitation

Abstract

Problem: In Primary Health Care (PHC), group therapy conducted through small groups is a valuable strategy for sharing experiences and generating new knowledge among participants, thereby promoting health. However, physicians do not receive the training necessary to facilitate such groups. The PluriVox program is a tool available to address this need and can train physicians in 12 hours. This article reports the experience of a family caregiver group in PHC facilitated according to this approach. Objectives: To expand knowledge about group therapy, present the group facilitation tool known as the PluriVox Program, evaluate its effectiveness as a method for training professionals to work with groups, and stimulate reflections on group therapy practices in Basic Health Units (Unidades Básicas de Saúde – UBS). Methods: This is a qualitative, recursive actionresearch study with an observational, longitudinal, analytical, and interpretive design. Data were collected through structured observation following the PluriVox program protocol. Results: Over the course of six months of group sessions using the tool, participants demonstrated increased empowerment and shared responsibility in decision making processes related to health promotion, while physicians developed competencies in group facilitation. Conclusion: Based on the results presented, an alternative procedure to the classroom-style groups routinely conducted in PHCUs is proposed. The inclusion of physician training in therapeutic group facilitation as a health promotion strategy is also encouraged within medical residency programs.