Background: An increase in demand for psychotherapy and a mental health provider shortage have created limited access to psychotherapy services. Group therapy is an evidence-based psychotherapy modality that improves access to psychotherapy but is often underutilized. Local Problem: An FQHC in Battle Creek, Michigan attempted to initiate a group therapy program to improve access to psychotherapy and provide the benefits of group therapy. The program was unsuccessful due to low enrollment. Methods: This evidence-based quality improvement project aims to increase enrollment in a group therapy program at an FQHC by structuring the enrollment process using evidence synthesized in a literature review. The enrollment process was implemented using the Plan-Do-Study-Act framework. The outcomes were evaluated based on the referrals received, the number of patients enrolled in group therapy, and patient feedback during the enrollment process. Interventions: Implementation of a structured enrollment process included written education for referring providers, educational flyers for patients, referral screening, verbal education for patients, and pre-screening/pre-training sessions provided by a therapist. Results: Enrollment in group therapy increased by 50% and was maintained throughout the sessions, sustaining the program. With the implementation of the interventions, the enrollment rate of patients meeting minimum criteria increased from 8% to about 21%. Conclusions: A structured group therapy enrollment process that increases appropriate referrals, addresses attitudes towards group therapy, ensures appropriate patient selection, and provides pre-screening/pre-training sessions may improve enrollment in group therapy.
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