Since 1987, the New York University Alzheimer's Disease Center Caregiver Research Program has evaluated the benefits of a multifaceted, structured treatment program for spouse-caregivers of patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD). This intervention strategy for caregivers was based on the clinical experience of counselors who worked with families of AD patients both individually and in support groups for many years. The unifying theme of the intervention is that improving social support and mastery improves the ability of the caregiver to withstand the difficulties of caregiving. The intervention takes into account the diversity and variability in caregiver problems, and is not time limited.