Psychoanalytically oriented short-term groups for outpatients: Unsettled issues

The psychoanalytic approach to short-term group therapy for outpatients has been less prevalent than other approaches. Unsettled issues associated with this approach concern the feasibility of carrying out psychoanalytic work on an ongoing basis, patient selection, group composition, patient preparation, therapist technique, and cotherapy. Recent literature relevant to a conceptual consideration of these issues is reviewed. A vignette from a recent therapy group is presented as part of a clinical consideration of the issues. In addition, practical suggestions for conducting such groups are provided.This article was derived from a paper presented at the Seventh Annual Meeting of the Canadian Group Psychotherapy Association, October 16, 1986, Mont Tremblant, Canada.