The parallel process in the training of general practitioners

Abstract

The overall objective of the Dutch GP training programme is to help the trainees develop into autonomous professional helpers. One of the most widely used means to this end is ‘experience-sharing’: exchanging and discussing experiences in groups of 12 junior GPs, led by a senior GP and a psychologist. ‘Experience-sharing’ can be optimized if group-psychotherapeutic techniques are used. Of the techniques that can be helpful, one deserves particular attention: the use that can be made of the so-called ‘parallel process’. This process entails the enactment—in the group—of unconscious diffficulties besetting the doctor-patient relationship. This paper describes the parallel process and indicates how it can be used to help the GP group group members form more autonomous role conceptions.