Main description:

This text provides broad coverage within a thematic framework that helps students gain insight into how groups work. In addition to balanced coverage of key groups theories and skills, the text takes a full chapter to focus on psychoeducational groups. Students will benefit from carefully constructed pedagogy that encourages them to reflect, interpret, and develop their own ideas about how groups function. The coverage of theory is made interesting through the personal insights and reflections of the author. Clear and vivid language, as well as literary references, personal disclosure, and vibrant examples help to effectively present material, promote understanding, and engage students. To further enhance the learning experience, transcripts of group interactions throughout the text provide a realistic view of a group setting. These sessions can be viewed in their entirety on the accompanying video.

Contents:

I. Group Process and Principles of Change 1. The Framework of Group Counseling 2. Small Group Dynamics and Interpersonal Theory 3. Professional Standards (ASGW) and Ethics in Group Practice II. Therapeutic Factors Through a Group's Stages 4. Hope, Universality, Cohesiveness, and Identification 5. Self-Understanding, Family Re-enactment, and Catharsis 6. Altruism, Guidance, and Existential Growth 7. Cultural Identity in Groups III. On Becoming a Person 8. Humanist Group Theory and Practice 9. Existential Group Theory and Practice IV. The Unfolding of Awareness 10. Psychodynamic Group Theory and Practice 11. Gestalt Group Theory and Practice V. A Life of Learning 12. Cognitive-Behavioral Group Theory and Practice 13. Psychoeducational Group Theory and Practice VI. On Becoming a Citizen 14. Adlerian Group Theory and Practice 15. Choice Theory and Reality Therapy VII. Conclusion 16. The Effective Group Counselor