An Introduction to Groups

This workshop will introduce the concept of group therapy. We will explore the history and development of group work practice with a brief outline of the psychological thinking of Yallom, Bion and Foulkes. You will be invited to consider some of the concepts and processes at work in group dynamics through seminars and experiential experiences over the course of two days.

Day One: 

• An introduction to the different models/approach to conducting group therapy, including their origins
• You will explore the work of theorists including Foulkes, Bion and Yallom
• Development of understanding group analytic terminology/ideas including thinking about
  1) communication both conscious and unconscious
  2) social unconscious
  3) translation dynamic
• Experiential session
• The process of creating a group space and the relevance of the dynamic administration. This will also include a brief overview of the stages of group development

Day Two: 

• Examination of Foulkes’ Group Analytic Concepts and how these affect how group work is conducted including:
  1) mirroring
  2) resonance
  3) location of disturbance
  4) condenser phenomena
• Discussion of parallels with psychodynamic theory and considering psychoanalytic mechanisms in the group process
• Experiential Session

This course is intended to open up your thinking relating to group theory and the effectiveness of this clinical practice. It can be seen as an introduction to group work and signposting to further qualification in this area will be offered during the course of the workshop.

Course Leader: Maggie Sauven MBACP (Accred)
Maggie is an accredited psychodynamic counsellor, supervisor, and Group Work Practitioner. She has a keen interest in the interpersonal dynamics of the individual and the group. She trained with the Institue of Group Analysis and has been involved in setting up and running a number of different groups including group therapy. She believes that in understanding group processes, this can enhance the clinicians understanding of their clients in individual and couples counselling.

Date: Saturday 20th April & Sunday 21st April 2024

Time: 10:00 – 16:00

Cost: £250 (Early Bird price of £225 available until 31 January 2024)

Cancellation Policy

Please note that in order to receive the discounted rate due to the membership of BCS, ACS, RGT, or Counsellors Staffroom, you must be a member for the duration of the course. Full course fees will be payable if you leave your discounted organisation during the course.

In the unlikely event that unforeseen circumstances arise and BCS has to cancel this course a full refund will be given. In the event of cancellation by the participant, BCS reserves the right to charge a cancellation fee as indicated by the table below. All requests for cancellations must be received in writing, with changes becoming effective on the date written confirmation is received.

Please ensure you meet the entry requirements prior to booking your place. If candidates do not meet the entry requirements they will be unable to attend the course and their withdrawal will be treated as a cancellation and subject to the above cancellation policy.