Symbolization of experience in the process of group development

This paper applies some of the concepts of the theory of experiencing (as developed within the client-centered school of thought) to psychotherapy process in the small group. The ideas of Rogers and Gendlin regarding how change occurs in psychotherapy are applied to the process of development in the group-as-a-whole. The role of perception and symbolization of experience in the process of group development is examined. A case example from group psychotherapy is used to illustrate the process of formation, the change of shared perceptions among the group members, and the importance of these perceptions to the functioning of the group.