Describes a group psychotherapy procedure with emphasis upon a long-term group aimed at personality changes, & includes a brief note on a short-term crisis oriented group. Factors discussed include selection of patients, structure of the group, & treatment orientation (dynamic, with emphasis on communication). Some problems incurred were ensuring heterogeneity of members, working with the threat of death & with simultaneous demands from patients, & involving significant others. (6 refs.) (RM)