The Notion of the ‘Matrix’: New Perspectives in Group Psychotherapy for Psychotic Patients

Abstract

Following on from the work of Foulkes (1964), we propose in this article to take up the concept of ‘group matrix’. We set out to provide new clinical–theoretical perspectives via the notion of group as ‘envelope’ elaborated by Anzieu (1975). This formulation will provide us with a canvas within which to apprehend the organizational and structural evolution of a therapeutic group for chronic psychotic patients. We will suggest models of the networks forming the matrix and the texture of the psychic envelope of the group. The aim is to bring out the peculiarities of the matrix in this type of group as well as its impact on the psychic positioning of the therapist and on his/her therapeutic work within the group.