Intersubjective Aspects of Relational Group Process: From Exclusion to Integration

Abstract

Through the use of Relational Group Process (Erskine, 2013) the therapist(s) and group members join together to build an intersubjective environment a co-constructed group experience.  This process encourages people to respectfully listen and inquire of each other, to move out of the role of simply being observers of group dynamics, and to stop engaging in judgmental assessments of the others. The intersubjective aspects of Integrative Psychotherapy are essential components for achieving the goal of integration. The set of relational methods outlined in Integrative Psychotherapy provide a comprehensive guide for intersubjective treatment. When these methods are applied to the group setting in the format of relational group process, they allow the integration of different experiences in the group matrix. The more the group matrix holds individual experiences, the more internal and external contact of group members is fostered. A case study illustrating these concepts and dynamics is presented.