Main description:

There are multiple meanings to the term 'group-as-a-whole' and all have a contribution. This book emphasizes that the therapist ideally listens with the fourth ear, not only attending to the latent communication of each individual, but also listening for the shared theme of the whole group. Ferreting out the underlying theme that the entire group is dealing with, the common group tension, provides a valuable opportunity for each individual to change the underlying issues that impair his or her relationships. In addition, the author provides a wide ranging coverage of theoretical, clinical, and training issues. These include a clarification of the confusing, but all-important conception of projective identification as well as a contribution to the understanding of the similarities and differences between group and individual psychotherapy. He presents a special perspective on why groups are particularly indicated in dealing with narcissistic pathology and also explores the effect of the therapist's narcissism on his patients. Finally, he emphasizes that therapists' participation as members of experiential groups is an essential part of their training.

Contents:

New International Library of Group Analysis Foreword , Preface , Introduction , Historical , The American and British perspectives , Varieties of group centered models , Critiques of group centered theories , Forty years of group psychotherapy at the Menninger Clinic , Theoretical , Transference in therapy groups and experiential groups , An inductive group centered approach , Projective identification in groups , Depth of transference in psychotherapy groups , Clinical , An integrated group centered approach: a clinical illustration , Selection criteria for groups with self-disordered patients , Group psychotherapy of the borderline patient , Group psychotherapy with narcissistic patients , The treatment of a narcissistic patient , The self in groups , Narcissistic leadership in groups , Training , Training programs within organizations , Training groups for mental health professionals , A workshop model for mental health professionals , Exciting opportunities ahead: opening plenary address to AGPA institute participants , Epilogue the value of group-as-a-whole models