Focused brief group therapy (FBGT) is a semi-structured, integrative, interpersonal group therapy approach designed to accurately and reliably target reductions in interpersonal distress in eight or fewer sessions. Based on a brief version of Irvin Yalom’s interpersonal process group model, it incorporates an evidence-based measure of interpersonal distress, the Inventory of Interpersonal Problems (IIP-32), to bring focus to clients’ therapeutic work.

The approach employs evidence-based practice ideas, such as the promotion of the working alliance and group cohesion. Process and outcome assessment results are also presented transparently and in real time to clients, thereby allowing for adjustments in treatment—a practice-based evidence approach.