65th Annual Conference

Thursday, February 21

Afternoon Open Sessions

2:45 P.M.-6:00 P.M.

Session 305

Impasse in Group Psychotherapy: An Opportunity

Chair:

Sara J. Emerson, M.S.W., LICSW, CGP, FAGPA, Private Practice, Cambridge, Massachusetts

Panelist:

Stewart Aledort, M.D., CGP, Clinical Faculty, Washington Psychoanalytic

Society, Washington, DC

Phil Flores, Ph.D., ABPP, CGP, FAGPA, Private Practice, Atlanta, Georgia

Elliott Zeisel, Ph.D., LCSW, CGP, FAGPA, Faculty, Training Analyst, Center for Modern Analytic Studies, New York, New York
 

Impasses in group are complex and often painful. They involve the leader, the individual, and the group as a whole. It is incumbent upon the leader to recognize the impasse, gain perspective and thus help him/herself and the members untangle the "stuck" or locked place and thus help the group move forward and gain from the experience. These panelist represent different theoretical orientations, Interpersonal, Modern Analytic, the Omnipotent Child, and Attachment theory. Panelists will provide a brief overview of their orientation and view of impasses. Dr. Aledort will lead a demonstration group, followed by comments and participant discussion.

Learning Objectives:

The attendee will be able to:

1.Identify and describe the four theoretical positions.
2. Define and be able to describe a clinical impasse.
3. Identify how the presenter/leaders orientation informs their approach to resolving an impasse.
 

Course References:

1. Aledort, S. (2002) The Omnipotent Child Syndrome: The role of the passionately held bad fits in the formation of identity. International Journal of Group Psychotherapy. 52,67-89.
2. Flores, P.(2004). Addiction as an Attachment Disorder: Northvale, NF: Jason Aronson Press.

3. Ormont, L. (1991). Use of Group in Resolving the Subjective Countertransference. International Journal of Group Psychotherapy. 41, 433-448.