Unity in duality: The synthesis of individual and group psychoanalytic psychotherapy

Contrary to the notion that individual and group therapy tap differing psychic functions, developmental levels, or therapeutic goals, in this paper the two modalities are seen as parts of an integrated whole, to be understood via the metaphorical and symbolic communications in each; each is a holographic reflection of the whole, the two together being internally consistent. Different levels of defensive operations may be observable in each, but taken together they reflect the entirety of the patient's psyche. The group's developmental level as well as the active use of this integrative approach by the therapist are also important. Clinical illustrations are presented.Paper presented at the Xth International Congress of Group Psychotherapy, Amsterdam, August 1989. The author acknowledges with gratitude the numerous invaluable contributions by Ms. Anna Aragno in the preparation of this paper.