The Interpersonal Model of Group Psychotherapy

ABSTRACT

The interpersonal model of group psychotherapy, predicated on the early work of Harry Stack Sullivan and subsequently developed into a comprehensive model of group psychotherapy by Irvin Yalom, is described in this article. Using the common clinical illustration and descriptions of group members, the authors address the theoretical underpinnings of the interpersonal model of group psychotherapy; ways of maximizing patient engagement; group leadership principles; and the group leader’s responsibility to facilitate the group effectively within the here-and-now. Core elements that will be addressed include the group leader’s role in fostering group cohesion; receptive and expressive aspects of empathy; and interpersonal feedback and therapeutic metacommunication.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Lisa Mahon

Lisa Mahon is a Clinical Psychologist in private practice in Atlanta, Georgia.

Molyn Leszcz

Molyn Leszcz is Psychiatrist-in-Chief at Mount Sinai Hospital, Professor and Vice Chair, Clinical, Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto.