64th Annual Conference

Friday, March 9

Morning Workshops

10:00 A.M.-1:15 P.M.

Workshop 46

Navigating the Transition from Individual Treatment to Combined Individual and Group Psychotherapy

Open to participants with less than four years of group psychotherapy experience.

Chairs: 

Joann Coleman, M.S.W., Private Practice, Farmington Hills, Michigan

Helene Lockman, M.S.W., Private Practice, Farmington Hills, Michigan

In the practice of combined individual and group psychotherapy, a critical time for the patient is the move into the group from the exclusivity of individual treatment. Patients are flooded with emotional reactions regarding entry into group, therefore, the therapist's skill and sensitivity are critical in navigating this transition.

experiential, didactic, sharing of work experiences, demonstration

Learning Objectives:

The attendee will be able to:
1. Describe the critical elements which are basic for an accurate diagnosis of a patient's readiness for group.
2. Understand key aspects of the therapeutic relationship which signify readiness for group.
3. Identify with the patient's range of affect as they enter group.

Course References:

1.  Bar-Levav, R. The Yes and No of Groups. Voices: The Art and Science of Psychotherapy. 30(2), 57-61.
2.  Gans, J.  (1990). Broaching and Exploring the Question of Combined Group and Individual Therapy.  International Journal of Psychotherapy. 40(2), 123-136.
3.  Greenson, R. (1967). The Technique and Practice of Psychoanalysis. New York: International Universities Press. 216-224.
4.  Rasmussen, B. (1999). Joining Group Psychotherapy: Developmental considerations. International Journal of Group Psychotherapy. 49(4), 513-528.