K. Roy MacKenzie

An Analysis of AGPA Institute Groups

ABSTRACTFifty-three 2-day training groups were studied with process and outcome measures. When the eight most successful groups were compared to the eight least successful groups on factor analytically derived dimensions, the formers leaders were characterized as more caring, charismatic, skillful, and less inhibiting, and the successful groups were described as more cohesive and less defended and superficial. The group climate results were compatible with the expectation that the better outcome groups would progress more rapidly through early group developmental tasks. A group climate measure of engagement obtained at the end of the first 3½ hour session was predictive of final outcome; interestingly, success was not achieved by avoiding conflict. The general psychodynamic process groups were viewed as more defended and inhibited than topic-centered specific interest groups.

Where is here and when is now? The adaptational challenge of mental health reform for group psychotherapy

The structure of health care delivery is in a period of rapid change. An understanding of psychotherapy service use patterns indicates the importance of time categories as well as the relevance of group techniques. Traditional interpersonal and psychodynamic group techniques may be modified for time-limited use without sacrificing basic values and with demonstrated effectiveness. Adapting to a more fiscally stringent practice environment requires the clinician to undertake a difficult process of transition. As professionals our task is to prepare ourselves for this challenge and to let the health care system know that proper practice guidelines are necessary to achieve effective treatment for our patients.

An Expectation of Radical Changes in the Future of Group Psychotherapy

It was the best of times, it was the worst of times. It was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness. There has been a major trend toward an increasing demand for groups—this should be the best of news. However, this development is being driven to a major extent by cost-effectiveness considerations—the worst of news. Throughout the economically advanced countries, with the possible exception of the United Kingdom, programmatic planning has routinely incorporated a substantial group component, including intensive inpatient and outpatient group programs—wisdom. The American scene has been characterized by the virtual elimination of such intensive services, restricted access to treatment, and lowered reimbursement rates for group psychotherapists—foolishness. These changes of the past decade have taken most clinicians by surprise. Furthermore, it is likely that more radical developments are in store for the practice of group psychotherapy. The future of group psychotherapy can be seen from two perspectives: service delivery structures and technical modifications.