Support for staff support groups: A role for group analysts

Abstract

Clinical psychologists in NHS settings are often called upon to facilitate ‘staff groups’. A survey of psychologists’ self-reported experiences of facilitating such groups indicated average levels of relevant training, moderate levels of confidence, but only average levels of effectiveness. The value and validity of quantitative evaluations of this kind are discussed. The findings suggest that more group therapies-related teaching and training are needed in clinical psychology training courses and in clinical environments in the NHS and other clinical settings. Group analysts are well placed to encourage, support and provide teaching and training opportunities such as these.