Uses and abuses of the brief intervention group

Time-Limited Group Therapy

This article is a comparative review of conceptually planned short-term group treatment models. Comparisons are made regarding structure (selection, composition, pregroup orientation), time (duration, session frequency and length, group development), and therapeutic characteristics (focal themes, interventions, therapeutic factors). These dimensions were selected for analysis because of their relationship to unique issues that are raised when therapy is time-limited and occurs in a group. Implications for the clinician and researcher are conceptualized across the broad dimensions of structure, time. and therapeutic characteristics.

Principles of leadership in brief training groups for mental health care professionals

Leadership in brief training groups requires a high level of skill, energy, and professionalism. The group needs to be led in a purposeful, constructive manner. A metaphor for beneficial leadership is suggested through the image of a mountain guide who sustains and helps members of the group in their exploration of the psychological terrain that is themselves. The leader has five main tasks: (1) to contain the anxieties of the group, (2) quickly establish a therapeutic atmosphere in the group, (3) guide the group toward issues that can be addressed in the time available, (4) guard against damaging self-disclosure and loss of self-esteem, and (5) help the group end well. Clinical vignettes illustrate the realization of these practice points.