THE PRINCIPLES OF GROUP THERAPY:
A Comprehensive Introduction
This course focuses on foundational concepts and theories in group therapy, including group structure and dynamics; group formation and development; group leadership and the different roles of group members; change process in groups; ethical considerations; and neuroscience and groups. We will touch on different approaches to groups including the theories of Yalom, Bion, Foulkes, Agazarian, and Ormont, as well as the various group offerings (process oriented, psychoeducational, support groups). Additionally, we will consider the transference/counter-transference matrix in groups and how it differs from individual therapy; different ways to address the here-and-now commonly stirred up in groups; what are some determinants to consider when selecting the composition of the group; and how to reduce dropouts by adequately preparing members for the group process. This eight-week course fulfills the 15-hours theory requirement to become a Certified Group Psychotherapist (CGP) by the American Group Psychotherapy Association (AGPA).
NCSPP is aware that historically psychoanalysis has either excluded or pathologized groups outside of the dominant population in terms of age, race, ethnicity, nationality, language, gender, religion, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, disability, and size. As an organization, we are committed to bringing awareness to matters of anti-oppression, inequity, inequality, diversity, and inclusion as they pertain to our educational offerings, our theoretical orientation, our community, and the broader world we all inhabit.
Presenters Response:
While the overall focus of this course is on group therapy in general, we will pay special attention to ruptures, cracks, and microaggressions emerging in group context, and emphasize the role that race, culture, and social identity play in ruptures transpired by and amongst the leader as well as group members. We will use Ribeiro's book (see bibliography) that examines questions around race, language, ability, gender, and the similarities and differences between the leader and the group members. We will examine the intricacies of BIPOC lived experience and intersubjective dynamics.
At the conclusion of this course, participants will be able to:
1. Identify and describe at least 3 group dynamics, e.g. resistance, scapegoating and sub¬group formation, as they arise.
2. Analyze the stages of group development.
3. Identify, discuss, and analyze the role of the leader.
4. Name at least 3 ways in which diversity impacts group dynamics and leadership.
5. Compare at least 3 different approaches to group therapy/counseling.
6. Analyze and compare at least 3 different kinds of groups.
7. Discuss and evaluate the effectiveness of group psychotherapy.
8. Demonstrate and use interventions that take into consideration cultural sensitivity.
1. American Group Psychotherapy Association, Inc. (2007). Practice Guidelines for Group Psychotherapy, New York: AGPA.
2. Burlingame, G. M., Strauss, B., & Joyce, A. (2021). Change mechanisms and effectiveness of small group treatments. Bergin and Garfield’s handbook of psychotherapy and behavior change, 17, 583-624.
3. Kaklauskas F., & Greene, L. (2019). Core Principles of Group Psychotherapy (1st Edition). Routledge.
4. Ribeiro, M.D. (2020). Examining Social Identities and Diversity Issues in Group Therapy: Knocking at the Boundaries. NY: Routledge.
5. Rutan, S.J., Stone, N.W., & Shay, J.J. (2014). Psychodynamic Group Psychotherapy, 5th Ed. N.Y.: Guilford Press.
6. Yalom, I., & Leszcz, M. (2020). The Theory and Practice of Group Psychotherapy, 6th Ed. New York: Basic Books.
Haim Weinberg, Ph.D., is a licensed psychologist, group analyst, and certified group psychotherapist in private practice in Sacramento. He has authored a book on online groups, and co-authored and co-edited books on fairy tales and the social unconscious. His latest book, co-written with Arnon Rolnick, is Theory and Practice of Online Therapy (Routledge, 2019).
This introductory course is for all mental health professionals.
LCSW/MFTs: Course meets the requirements for _ hours of continuing education credit for LMFTs, LCSWs, LPCCs and/or LEPS, as required by the CA Board of Behavioral Sciences. NCSPP is approved by the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (Provider Number 57020), to sponsor continuing education for LMFTs, LCSWs, LPCCS, and/or LEPs. NCSPP maintains responsibility for this program /course and its content.
Psychologists: Division 39 is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. Division 39 maintains responsibility for these programs and their content.
Enrollees who cancel at least SEVEN DAYS prior to the event date will receive a refund minus a $35 administrative charge. No refunds will be allowed after this time. Transfer of registrations are not allowed.
For program related questions contact Ronna Milo Haglili, Psy.D, rhaglili@ncspp.org.
For questions related to enrollment, locations, CE credit, special needs, course availability and other administrative issues contact Michele McGuinness by email or 415-496-9949.
Education Committee
The Education Committee is responsible for the development of a variety of courses and workshops given throughout the year in San Francisco and the East Bay.