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Small and unfilled psychotherapy groups: Understanding and using them effectively

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Abstract

Many open-ended psychotherapy groups have fewer than five members, and fewer than the number the therapist considers necessary for the group to be filled. This paper discusses the rationale for starting such groups and the special dynamics of running them. It then suggests strategies for the therapist to use in maximizing their therapeutic effectiveness. Suggestions are made for further research into the demographic and dynamic aspects of such groups.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Harvard Medical School, Lexington, Massachusetts

    Theodore I. Anderson M.D. (Clinical Instructor in Psychiatry, Clinical Associate in Psychiatry)

  2. Massachusetts General Hospital, Lexington, Massachusetts

    Theodore I. Anderson M.D. (Clinical Instructor in Psychiatry, Clinical Associate in Psychiatry)

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  1. Theodore I. Anderson M.D.
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Anderson, T.I. Small and unfilled psychotherapy groups: Understanding and using them effectively. Group 17, 13–20 (1993). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01419600

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01419600

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