About group analysis education
Candidates interested in getting an education in group analysis are trained to lead a group according to the method established and developed by psychoanalyst Sigmund Heinrich Foulkes and his followers. The method is applied in clinical and non-clinical environment.
Through education, a candidate acquires knowledge on group analysis and develops an identity of a group analyst (group analysis psychotherapist), which requires high professional and ethical standards.
Theoretical framework of the group analysis education consists of psychoanalytical theories, sociological theories, Gestalt psychology, as well as the general systems theory. Basic principles of group analysis education lie in recognising and acquiring knowledge on importance of communication and human social nature, as well as in recognising and accepting existence of unconscious at the individual and group level. Furthermore, there is a need to accept that an individual defines oneself in relation to the group, as well as to acquire knowledge about the open systems which are in constant dynamic equilibrium.
Programmes
The education programme is harmonised with the EGATIN standards (European Group Analytic Training Institutions Network).
The Training Committee selects trainees, conducts training, and assesses progress and levels of achieved qualification.
The training is modelled in such a manner that it entails three parts:
- Theoretical seminars on theory and techniques of group analysis
- Individual therapy in a small analytical group and
- Leading of trainee’s own group under supervision during clinical course.
The training lasts for five years – the introductory course lasts for one year, and the clinical one for four years.
Before an individual becomes a trainee, selection of candidates is conducted. Selection interviews are done by two group analysis trainers independently of each other. Motivation and qualities of the candidate’s personality are assessed.
The following professionals have the possibility to attend the training: psychiatrists, physicians who specialize in psychiatry, psychologists, social workers and pedagogues. Medical nurses working at the psychiatric and other departments can also attend, as well as professional staff belonging to other humanistic professions
In order to attend the clinical course, a trainee has to complete the introductory course.
Group analysis education is organised in an accelerated manner for those trainees who are not living in Belgrade or who are coming from the neighbouring countries.
The final part of education is elaboration of a clinical paper. Following supervision, a trainee chooses a topic so as to connect theoretical concepts and experience in leading a group. Provided the paper is evaluated positively by the Training Committee, the trainee gains right to obtain Diploma of group analysis psychotherapist – group analyst of the Belgrade Society of Group Analysts. The trainee also gains right to apply for obtaining EAP Diploma.