Quick Guide for Clinicians - SAMHSA Store - Substance Abuse and ...

Group Development and Phase-Specific Tasks 33The fixed membership format provides more timeto discuss issues of difference prior to joining agroup. A person who is unlike the rest of the groupmay be asked:• How do you think you would feel in a group inwhich you differ from other group members?• What would it be like to be in a group whereeveryone else is a strong believer in something,such as AA, and you are not?Such questions might be coupled with positivecomments that stress the benefits that a uniqueperspective may bring to the group.Increasing RetentionTo make it possible or easier for clients to attendregularly, retention rates in a group are positivelyaffected by• Client preparation• Maximum client involvement during the earlystages of treatment• The use of feedback• Prompts to encourage attendance• The provision of wraparound services (such aschild care and transportation)• The timing and length of the group