Filling a significant gap in the clinical literature, this unusually practical manual addresses the nuts-and-bolts issues involved in conducting group therapy. Featuring contributions from leading experts in the field, the volume covers everything from determining which patients will benefit from a group experience to step-by-step instructions for running group sessions as effectively as possible. A hands-on manual, the volume is also an ideal companion to a basic text on group psychotherapy. Organized in a unique, logical sequence, the chapters begin with an explanation of how to select patients for a particular group intervention and how groups are composed. The different stages of group interaction over time are then covered in detail, as are the changing aspects of the therapist's role during the various stages. Setting forth basic principles of group technique--including the management of resistance, transference, primitive group dynamics, and countertransference--a clear distinction is drawn between the roles of therapists conducting group treatment and therapists working in other treatment modalities.
Group Psychotheraphy “Finally, we have a book about group therapy that answers the question, ‘Is there one book that covers the waterfront but is deep enough to provide more than just an overview of models, and can actually help me become a better group therapist?’ This is such a book.” International Journal of Group Psychotherapy “This volume reflects the expansion in the field of psychodynamic group psychotherapy that today incorporates a variety of theoretical perspectives. Leading experts from various countries provide the reader with a clear overview of the different approaches. In addition, there are chapters in this volume that deal with special populations and conditions of treatment. While providing a straightforward introduction to the plethora of material in the field, the volume will also serve as a comprehensive resource for any seasoned group psychotherapist.” Howard D. Kibel, Professor of Psychiatry, New York Medical College and past President of the American Group Psychotherapy Association, USA The Handbook of Group Psychotherapy is a user-friendly guide to conducting group psychotherapy in various settings and with different populations. It has been designed as a resource for new professionals, including graduate students in mental health, as well as more seasoned clinicians planning to integrate group psychotherapy into their work. Bringing together pre-eminent group psychotherapists from different theoretical perspectives and countries, the articles in this volume present their approaches to conducting groups with diverse populations in different settings. Written in straight-forward, jargon-free language, the articles directly speak to the needs of the mental health professional planning to begin a group or to strengthen an existing group. Whether combined with a formal class in group techniques, human relations, or group dynamics, or in an institute training group practitioners, or read as part of one’s own professional development, this work is likely to advance the reader’s clinical competency and strengthen their self-confidence as a leader. Using a personal style and speaking from years of experience, the contributors provide hands-on suggestions as to how a group leader really works. From determining patient or client needs, developing treatment goals, and constructing a group, to handling emergencies, the contributors address the needs of the new group leader. The articles also address issues of diversity and globalism, as well as trauma and resiliency, making this a truly post-9/11 contribution.
Wilfred Bion's synthesis of the approach of classical psychoanalysis based on the individual with that of group dynamics has been of enduring influence. The contributors to this volume examine his theories and demonstrate that a later generation is still actively working with the implications of Bion's writings.
Attachment theory is influencing how we understand interpersonal relationships and how psychotherapy can help facilitate change for those struggling in relationships. More recently, researchers and clinicians have applied attachment theory to group treatment, one of the most effective forms of psychotherapy to address interpersonal difficulties. This book highlights some of the bridges between attachment theory and contemporary approaches to group treatment. In addition to applying attachment theory to innovative treatments, each chapter addresses a specific way in which attachment impacts the members’ capacity for empathy and perspective taking; the development of cohesion in the group; the automatic fight-flight response during group interactions; members’ ability to tolerate diversity; and the leaders’ capacity to foster safety within the group. This book will help group leaders gain a richer understanding of attachment theory and attachment based techniques that will ultimately benefit their groups. This book was originally published as a special issue of the International Journal of Group Psychotherapy.
This guide examines the unique therapeutic value of group psychotherapy. Written for the clinician in need of concise, clinically relevant information, this book discusses how the patient-patient and the patient-therapist interactions in a group setting can affect changes in maladaptive behavior.
Core Principles of Group Psychotherapy is designed as the primary curriculum for the Principles of Group Psychotherapy course in partial fulfilment of the Certified Group Psychotherapist credential awarded by the International Board for Certification of Group Psychotherapists. The text is divided into five modules: foundations, structure and dynamics, formation and development, leadership tasks and skills, and ethics, neuroscience, and personal style. The book is part of the AGPA Group Therapy Training and Practice series. This series aims to produce the highest quality publications to aid the practitioner and student in updating and improving their knowledge, professional competence, and skills with current and new developments in methods, practice, theory, and research, in the group psychotherapy field. In addition to helping group psychotherapists bolster their skills so as to ensure the availability of quality mental health services, this guide is an essential resource for students and clinicians interested in learning more about group psychotherapy, as a text in academic courses, or as part of a practicum or internship training curriculum.
Integrating cutting-edge relational theory with technique, this volume reveals the deeply personal nature of the intersubjective process of group therapy as it affects the group therapist and other group members. By locating the group therapist's experience in the centre of the action, Richard M. Billow moves away from traditional approaches in group psychotherapy. Instead, he places emphasis on the effect of the therapist's own evolving psychology on what occurs and what does not occur in group psychotherapy. Building on Bion's early theory of group and his later formulations regarding the structure of thought and the role of affect, this work expands on the present understanding of relational theory and technique. Through the use of clinical anecdotes the author is able to ground theory in the realities of clinical experience making this essential reading for group psychoanalysts and psychotherapists, psychiatrists and other mental health professionals, academics and students of psychoanalytic theory.
Group analytic theory is internationally recognised as an effective treatment for people suffering from mental distress, struggles with personal development and interpersonal problems. Integrating psychoanalytic and social psychological thinking and providing a group setting for self-discovery and developing social skills, long- and short-term courses in this type of therapy are increasing in popularity. This manual provides a detailed description of both long- and short-term versions of group analytic therapy, with rich and vivid clinical examples to illustrate theory and techniques. Group Analytic Psychotherapy describes in detail what a participant may expect, differences between short- and long-term therapy and how to behave as a group member, as well as the main issues the clinician has to deal with. Topics covered include: Group Analytic Theory Methodology Clinical Examples Therapist Adherence and Competence Providing a basis for understanding the dynamics of groups at work in offering emotional support and a positive atmosphere, Group Analytic Psychotherapy is ideal for clinicians, students and informed patients as well as all psychodynamically oriented professionals in the field. It is an essential manual for those looking to learn the main attributes of short-term intervention.
The most comprehensive and thoroughly researched text available on this topic, Handbook of Group Counseling and Psychotherapy, Second Edition underscores the notion that group work is improved through increased collaboration between researchers and practitioners. Edited by renowned leaders in the field, this thoroughly updated and revised Second Edition explores current literature and research and offers suggestions for practice in psycho-educational, counseling, and therapy groups. The Handbook is divided into five main sections: current and historical perspectives, best practices, multicultural and diverse groups, groups in special settings, and an introduction to special topics.
