Ask the Doctors

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Posted: 2/15/07

Is group counseling as helpful as individual counseling?

Group counseling can be just as helpful as individual, and in some cases, it has been shown to produce better results. Group therapy involves anywhere from four to 10 individuals who meet on a weekly basis with a trained therapist and discuss issues they are experiencing in their lives. Some issues that respond very well to this type of therapy include anxiety, low self-esteem, problems with relationships, anger difficulties, stress and time management. There are several positives to doing group therapy. For one, you find out that you are not the only person having difficulties, and while working on your issues, you are helping others to work on theirs. The group can also become a strong support system that accepts each person as they are. Confidentiality is maintained in group as it is in individual therapy. At this time, CAPS is offering several groups including two women's groups, an anxiety group and a graduate student support group. There are also some non-therapy groups like a drum relaxation group and a body image group. For more information, call CAPS at 575-5276.

Cece Hilliard, LCSE
Counseling and Psychological Services
Pat Walker Health Center

How can I get rid of warts on my hand?

Warts are caused by the human papillomaviruses. The most frequently occurring warts are common warts, which account for 70 percent of wart lesions. These common warts occur most frequently on the fingers, hands, and feet; however, they can be found on any area of the skin. It's estimated that between 20 and 40 percent of common warts resolve within two years without treatment. There are a variety of treatment plans available though; however, there is no treatment that is universally effective. Topical salicylic acid, an over-the-counter medication, has the best cure and safety rate of the over the counter options. Treatment generally needs to be continued for three months. Over-the-counter liquid nitrogen is available that freezes the warts to about negative 55 degrees Centigrade, less than office- based systems. In addition, there have been reports of using duct tape (another duct tape promotion for Prairie Home Companion.) Duct tape was applied and left in place for 6 days after which time the wart was soaked in water, debrided with an emery board and duct tape was reapplied. Complete resolution was reported in 85 percent of people who persisted with this treatment.

Office-based treatment options include cryosurgery (using liquid nitrogen producing temperatures of about negative 196 degrees Centigrade), electrodissecation, topical immune response modifiers (e.g. imiquimod cream), laser therapy, injected chemotherapy medications and injected intralesion immunotherapy.

Over-the-counter salicylic acid treatments are relatively safe and can be very effective with persistent application. More aggressive management can carry the potential for increased risks and adverse side effects.

Carol Fossey, M.D.
Primary Medical Clinic
Pat Walker Health Center