HIP was held over the course of eight weeks. Participants met as a group once a week for two hours. Literature suggests that the length of time must be sufficient (e.g., 7–10 weeks) to stimulate a process of change in participants that will continue for a long time afterward (Nichols & Jenkinson, 1991). Group size was limited to eight to nine people to allow individuals to feel safe without the group losing its dynamic aspect (Nichols & Jenkinson). The entire study lasted more than 18 months so that 38 individuals could participate in HIP. The investigator, a skilled advanced practice nurse educator, led each session to ensure consistency across groups. With the participants’ permission, the sessions were audiotaped, transcribed, and distributed to the participants so that they could refer back to specific sessions.