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

Group Development and Phase-Specific Tasks 37During the beginning phase• The purpose of the group is articulated.• Working conditions of the group areestablished.• A positive tone is set for the group.• Members are introduced.• The group agreement is reviewed.• A safe, cohesive environment is ensured.• Norms are established.• The work of the group begins.Middle Phase: Working Toward ProductiveChangeThe group in its middle phase encounters andaccomplishes most of the actual work of therapy.During this phase, the leader balances content(the information and feelings overtly expressed inthe group) and process (how members interact inthe group over time).Some ways in which a group leader can help thegroup accomplish its middle-phase tasks include• Opening the session• Tracking the process• Capitalizing on the energy of resistance• Connecting before tackling issues