67th Annual Conference

Saturday, February 27

Session 213

Stirring the Pot: Some Clinical and Ethical Implications of Boundary Crossings in Group Psychotherapy

Presenter:

Robert S. Pepper CSW, Ph.D, CGP, Director of Training, Long Island Institute for Mental Health, Rego Park, New York, New York

Altering the frame of analytic group therapy always has an impact on the treatment. While boundary crossings are not inherently boundary violations, they still may be problematic. This session will discuss the differences. Such diverse topics such as dual relationships, running groups from the home office and raising fees in group are examples of boundary crossings. The potential harm in interpreting all group members' negative reactions to these phenomena as transference will be addressed.

Learning Objectives:

The attendee will be able to:
1. Identify the 4 potential dangers of boundary crossings.
2. Discuss the differences between boundary crossings and boundary violations.
3. Recognize the symptoms of iatrogenic treatment reactions.

Course References:
Gans, J. (1992). "Money and Psychodynamic Group Psychotherapy." International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, 42,  p.133-152.

Pepper, R. (2004). "Confidentiality and Dual Relationships in Group Psychotherapy." International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, 54, p.103-114.

Temerlin, J., & Temerlin, M., "Psychotherapy Cults: An iatrogenic perversion". PSYCHOTHERAPY, RESEARCH AND PRACTICE, 40, p. 131-140.