64th Annual Conference

Saturday, March 10

Early Bird Open Sessions

7:30-8:30 A.M.

Session 214

Role Playing in Group Psychotherapy: New Outlooks

Chair:

David Kipper, Ph.D., CGP, FAGPA, Research Professor of Psychology, Roosevelt University, Chicago, Illinois

Presenter:

Adam Blatner, M.D., Faculty, Senior University Georgetown, Georgetown,Texas

This session will discuss recent models of role playing and action methods as applied in group psychotherapy. The models allow group therapists of various theoretical orientations to view the psychodrama method and other forms of action interventions in a manner more compatible with traditional verbal group interventions. Two leaders in the field will review the Experiential Reintegration model (or the Corrective Experiential Approach) and the Applied Role Theory model. The latter offers an evocative metaphor and user-friendly language that facilitates collaborating interactions.

Learning Objectives:

The attendee will be able to:

1. Understand the language of role playing.
2. Describe the rationale for using role playing.
3. Assess the relevance of role playing in their practice.
4. Use techniques that can facilitate group process.
5. Apply these techniques to improve the ability to emphasize.

Course References:

1. Blatner, A. (2000). Foundation of Psychodrama (4th ed.), New York: Springer.
2. Kipper, D. (2005). Psychodrama in a New Light: The corrective experiential approach, The Group Psychologist, 15, 17-18.
3. Wiener, D. & Pels-Roulier, L. (2005). Action Methods in Marriage and Family Therapy: A review. Journal of Group Psychotherapy, Psychodrama and Sociometry, 56, 86-101.