How to be a ‘good enough’ group analyst

Abstract

A group analyst has an enormous influence over the group dynamics (the ‘matrix’) and this derives from his or her ‘identity or group analytic attitude’ which has been developed through training, practice and group analytic supervision. Each group analyst must develop personal attributes and also affective/cognitive capabilities required to become a ‘good enough group analyst’. Throughout group therapy sessions, specific dimensions appear related to each group analyst. These are of particular importance for a good evolution of group processes, pertaining to his ‘presence’ face-to-face with the group and to his personal ‘style’.

Towards a full comprehension of our paradigm—A response to Mário David’s article ‘How to be a “good-enough” group analyst’

“…But in the very next paragraph, the author returns to the central issue of the group analyst’s personality, when he writes,Thus, each candidate should develop a genuine and truthful ‘ group analytic identity ’ which will rest on: 1) the quality and depth of group analytic tutoring and training; 2) self-knowledge obtained from his personal experiences along the group process; 3) each one’s personal and professional life experiences; 4) his ongoing experience with all kinds of groups in which he will participate either as a member or as a conductor. (David, 2019: 205)…”

“…In the text quoted by David, Pisani goes even further, when he compares group analysis with the jazz style of creating music, in which ‘each session is a piece of “music” without a score’ (Pisani, 2014a: 307, quoted by David, 2019: 213).…”

“…It has been a pleasure to read, think through and comment on this excellent article by Mário David, since it deals with several themes that have been the focus of much of my thought and writing for many years. When trying to establish ‘how to be a good-enough group analyst’, the author does not discuss problems of theory and technique, but rather strives to identify and enquire ‘the most pertinent features which are related to the group analyst as a person when he faces people within a group setting and how this is significant for productive development of group processes’ (David, 2019: 204 [my italics])…”

“…All this presupposes a full personal and technical involvement, bolstered by self-reflection and self-evaluation accompanied by continuous and never-ending supervision not presenting general answers or final conclusions. (David, 2019: 205)…”

“…But I have found most interesting his comment that,Since the beginning of group analytic movement, the main characteristics of group therapist’s role have frequently been discussed in private meetings and supervision sessions but not so extended in published papers although this topic is becoming more frequent in recent years. (David, 2019: 206)…”