100-I | Systems-Centered Foundation Training for Groups and Individuals
Trainer(s): Nina Klebanoff , Ed.M., LCSW, CGP
; Mike Maher, MA, PCGE
In this two-day experiential practicum, members learn to use SCT functional subgrouping and reduce defenses in a specific sequence to develop the system's capacity for solving problems and applying common sense to everyday conflicts.
Category:
Institute
Track:
General Interest
Level:
Foundation Level |
CE credits:
11.5
Format:
Experiential, theory group
Day(s):
Saturday
& Sunday
,
Start: 9:00am End: Saturday 5:30pm, Sunday 4:30pm
|
Learning Objectives
Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:
-
Describe the symptoms of anxiety and the skills to undo anxiety
-
Identify tension in the body, describe the function of tension and how to let go of tension
-
Discriminate between feelings coming from thoughts vs. feelings coming from the here-and-now direct experience
-
Use SCT methods to come into the present, work in the present, and modify defenses in the present context
-
Subgroup functionally by joining on similarities, rather than separating from and rejecting differences
-
Join and work with others in a functional subgroup, as opposed to working alone
Presentation Content
Agazarian’s (1997) theory of living human systems, with its systems-centered approach to group practice, represents a developed and comprehensive systems theory applied to groups, individuals and couples. The theory of living human systems has defined theoretical constructs and operational definitions that implement and test the theoretical hypotheses in its practice. This theory and its methods are accepted among group practitioners as evidenced by SCTRI’s 2010 recognition for “Outstanding Contributions in Education and Training in the Field of Group Psychotherapy” awarded by the National Registry of Certified Group Psychotherapists. SCT methods are regularly cited or included in handbooks and reviews of group psychotherapy practice. There is also significant peer-reviewed published support for the theory and its practice, including articles in the International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, Group Dynamics, Small Group Research, Organizational Analysis, and Group Analysis.
Supporting References
Agazarian, Y.M. (2010). Systems-centered theory and practice: The contribution of Yvonne Agazarian (Edited by SCTRI.) Livermore, CA: WingSpan Press. Reprint (2011). London, UK: Karnac Books.
Agazarian, Y.M. (2012). Systems-centered group psychotherapy: A theory of living human systems and its systems-centered practice. GROUP: The Journal of the Eastern Group Psychotherapy Society, 36(1), 19-36.
Agazarian, Y.M. (2012). Systems-centered group psychotherapy: Putting theory into practice. International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, 62(2) 171-195. doi: 10.1521/ijgp.2012.62.2.171
Presenters
Nina Klebanoff, Ed.M., LCSW, CGP. Nina Klebanoff, Ed.M., LCSW, CGP, has been in private practice for over forty years, working with individuals, groups, couples' groups and organizations. Nina leads an ongoing SCT training group, provides consultation and has presented at numerous conferences.
Mike Maher, MA, PCGE. Mike Maher, MA, PGCE, is a psychotherapist, trainer and organizational consultant. He is a Licensed SCT Practitioner and Director of SCTRI and leads three ongoing SCT training groups. He was Deputy Director in a Therapeutic Community and subsequently he has developed a specialism in working with staff who work with client groups - adolescents and adults - characterized by their challenging natures. He has written papers and book chapters in working with staff groups, organizational issues in mental health reform, managing self-harm behaviors and other subjects, and has presented at many national and international conferences.
102-I | SAVI Fundamentals - Observing Behavior, Seeing Systems: At Work, In Therapy, At Home
Trainer(s): Claudia Byram , Ph.D., CGP
; Alida Zweidler-McKay, MBA
SAVI (System for Analyzing Verbal Interactions) maps communication behaviors that contribute noise and those that build clarity in any human system: organizations, work groups, families, clients and everyday life. Learn to use communication behavior to “see” the system: how it is built by contributions from all the members -- and how it influences what members contribute! Recognize repetitive, unproductive communication loops and explore alternative system patterns that free energy for problem-solving and work. This is a core SCT training.
Category:
Institute
Track:
SAVI
Level:
Open to All Levels |
CE credits:
11.5
Format:
Role play, didactic, discussion
Day(s):
Saturday
& Sunday
,
Start: 9:00am End: Saturday 5:30pm, Sunday 4:30pm
|
Learning Objectives
Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:
-
Define "noise" in verbal communication systems
-
Produce Avoidance (noisy) behavior and Approach (congruent) behaviors
-
Produce behaviors representing the Personal, Factual and Orienting columns of the SAVI Grid
-
Name three SAVI behavior sequences (Alerts) that signal emerging noise in the communication system
-
Demonstrate strategies to reduce communication noise in at least three common redundant sequences
-
Describe how communication is a system output, discriminating "noisy" and problem solving patterns.
Presentation Content
Behavioral observation systems are well-established in the research and clinical fields. This particular model, System for Analyzing Verbal Interaction, has been used for research in 4 dissertations, reported as a group process tool in 4 peer-reviewed publications, and is currently used for data collection in 3 as yet unpublished ongoing studies. It has a sound theoretical base in both field theory (Kurt Lewin) and information theory (Shannon), and builds on the work of Bales and others who developed observation systems to study classroom interactions.
Supporting References
Agazarian, Y.M., & Gantt, S.P. (2008). Autobiography of a theory. London, UK: Jessica Kingsley.
Bedwell, W.L., Wildman, J.L., DiazGranados, D., Salazar, M., Kramer, W.S., & Salas, E. (2012). Collaboration at work: An integrative multilevel conceptualization. Human Resource Management Review, 22(2), 128-145.
Benjamin, B., Yeager, A., & Simon, A. (2012). Conversation transformation. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill.
Brooks, A.B., & John, L.K. (2018). The surprising power of questions. Harvard Business Review, May-June 2018, pp. 60-67.
Simon A., & Agazarian, Y.M. (2000). SAVI - The system for analyzing verbal interaction. In A.P. Beck & C.M. Lewis (Eds.), The process of group psychotherapy: Systems for analyzing change (pp. 357-380). Washington, D.C.: American Psychological Association.
Presenters
Claudia Byram, Ph.D., CGP. Claudia Byram, Ph.D., CGP, has worked since 1980 as a clinician and trainer. She began work with Yvonne Agazarian in the early 80s, and has developed as a clinician and trainer as Systems-Centered therapy developed. Currently, she is a licensed Systems-Centered Practitioner with a clinical practice in Philadelphia. She leads Systems-Centered training events as well as communications training and consultation in the SAVI (System for Analyzing Verbal Interaction) model.
Alida Zweidler-McKay, MBA. Alida Zweidler-McKay, MBA, has been a consultant and coach since 1996. She works with senior executives and middle managers to develop their leadership skills through coaching, training and consulting projects. Alida is a Certified SAVI Trainer and a SAVI Master Coder. She has participated in SCT since 2002 and is working toward becoming a licensed Systems-Centered practitioner. She has a BA from Swarthmore College and an MBA from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania.
103-I | Taking Up Your (Functional) Role at Work
Trainer(s): Anna-Lena Sundlin , MSc, Licensed Psychologist
; Paul Sundlin, MSc, Licensed Psychologist
; Ben Benjamin, Ph.D.
Today’s workplace is in constant flux, which means that individuals experience uncertainty on a daily basis. Now more than ever, organizations need to clarify roles, goals and purpose, so that the employees have an accurate map to work from. When managers and employees learn tools and techniques to clarify their roles and develop their communication skills, positive changes follow. Their responsibilities, boundaries, rights and obligations become much clearer and personal conflicts, stress and feelings of insecurity start to diminish. Drawing on their book, the authors will share tools to clarify roles and ideas to support organizational team development in the work place.
Category:
Institute
Track:
Organizational|General Interest
Level:
Open to All Levels |
CE credits:
11.5
Format:
Didactic, discussion and role plays
Day(s):
Saturday
& Sunday
,
Start: 9:00am End: Saturday 5:30pm, Sunday 4:30pm
|
Learning Objectives
Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:
-
Use the model of Role, Goal and Context to improve role-taking and communication in the workplace
-
Analyze how your work contributes to the larger system’s organizational goals
-
Apply a framework for group development to contribute to a more effective working climate
-
Demonstrate a group perspective for understanding human interactions in a work group
-
Describe the difference between spontaneous and role-conscious communication
-
Compare the experience in a team of getting stuck in the past with using information from the past to inform the present work
Presentation Content
Agazarian’s (1997) theory of living human systems, with its systems-centered approach to group practice, represents a developed and comprehensive systems theory applied to groups, individuals and couples. The theory of living human systems has defined theoretical constructs and operational definitions that implement and test the theoretical hypotheses in its practice. This theory and its methods are accepted among group practitioners as evidenced by SCTRI’s 2010 recognition for “Outstanding Contributions in Education and Training in the Field of Group Psychotherapy” awarded by the National Registry of Certified Group Psychotherapists. SCT methods are regularly cited or included in handbooks and reviews of group psychotherapy practice. There is also significant peer-reviewed published support for the theory and its practice, including articles in the International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, Group Dynamics, Small Group Research, Organizational Analysis, and Group Analysis.
In addition to the work of Agazarian, the presenters have been inspired by the Milan school and other family systems models. Another important source of inspiration is Aaron Antonovsky’s concept of “a sense of coherence.” The presenters are also influenced by Poul Moxnes’ work on how dysfunctional roles develop in the workplace as well as Belbin’s writings on team roles, Elliott Jaquies’ thought on the requirements for a functional role taking in an organizational hierarchy, Peter Lang’s concept of systemic management and Bruce Reed’s theory and practice with role analysis. Finally, the presentation draws on Susan Wheelan’s model of stages of development in an organizational context.
Supporting References
Agazarian, Y.M. (1997). Systems-centered therapy for groups. New York, NY: Guilford Press. Re-printed in paperback (2004). London, UK: Karnac Books.
Antonovsky, A. (1991). Unraveling the mystery of health: How people manage stress and stay well. San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass.
Benjamin, B.E., Yeager, A., & Simon, A. (2012). Conversation transformation: Recognize and overcome the 6 most destructive communication patterns. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill.
Gantt, S.P., & Agazarian, Y.M. (Eds.) (2005). SCT in action: Applying the systems-centered approach in organizations. Lincoln, NE: iUniverse. Reprint (2006). London, UK: Karnac Books.
Sundlin, A.L., & Sundlin, P. (2014). Taking up your role: How to shift between life and work without losing yourself. Cambridge, MA: Catalyst Communications Press.
Wheelan, S. (2009). Creating effective teams: A guide for members and leaders (3rd ed). Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage.
Presenters
Anna-Lena Sundlin, MSc, Licensed Psychologist. Anna-Lena Sundlin, MSc, is an organizational consultant, owner and Managing Director of Sandahl Partners Gotland AB, Sweden. She is a licensed psychologist in Sweden (1994), with a background in clinical practice. She has worked as an organizational consultant since 1996, focusing on leadership training and group development in the workplace context. She has been involved in SCT training since 1993. Together with Paul Sundlin she has written the book “Taking up your role – How to shift between life and work without losing yourself” (2014, Catalyst Press) on how to use systems thinking in organizational development. Training to specialize in systems oriented therapy and organizational work at SCTRI in Stockholm, York (UK), Philadelphia (US) 1993 - present.
Paul Sundlin, MSc, Licensed Psychologist. Paul Sundlin, MSc, is a licensed psychologist in Sweden (1993) and partner of Sandahl Partners Gotland AB. He has a background in occupational health and has written two books on the subject of stress management and meditation. Paul has been working as an organizational consultant for over 20 years. He has been involved in SCT training since 2006 and together with Anna-Lena Sundlin he has written the book “Taking up your role – How to shift between life and work without losing yourself” (2014, Catalyst Press) on how to use systems thinking in organizational development. GDQ license 2006, Training to specialize in systems oriented therapy and organizational work at SCTRI in Sweden and United States 2006.
Ben Benjamin, Ph.D.. Ben Benjamin, Ph.D., has been using SCT and SAVI in both an educational and organizational context for the past ten years. He is a senior SAVI Trainer and co-author of "Conversation Transformation," the first published book on SAVI. He is the author of four other books in the health field. His most recent co-authored book, "The Ethics of Touch," is a text for hands-on health professionals in how to create a healthy therapeutic relationship. Ben worked closely with the authors to translate and publish "Taking Up Your Role" in English in the American cultural context. He coaches executives and teams and has recently completed a year-long training certificate program in how to coach intact teams. GDQ license June, 2010, SCTRI Training 1999-2010, US, York, Stockholm.
104-I | An Advanced Exploration of the Application of Theory and Methods in Contexts of Uncertainty
Trainer(s): Frances Carter , MSS, LSW, CGP
In this context Advanced participants will collaborate to explore their understanding of theory and its application in the support of the survival, development and transformation in systems responding to uncertainty. We will explore more deeply the understanding of the hierarchy of living human systems and the driving and restraining forces that maintain stability, the developmental goal, vector and function of the protocols in the hierarchy of defense modification, particularly the newer role systems in the person-as-a-whole additions.
Prerequisite: Completion of Authority Issue Group (AIG).
Category:
Institute
Track:
General Interest
Level:
Advanced Level |
CE credits:
11.5
Format:
Discussion, role play
Day(s):
Saturday
& Sunday
,
Start: 9:00am End: Saturday 5:30pm, Sunday 4:30pm
|
Learning Objectives
Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:
-
Use the concept of Hierarchy to decide when to make an intervention to the person system
-
Use the concept of Hierarchy to decide when to make an intervention to the member system
-
Use the concept of Hierarchy to decide when to make an intervention to the Subgroup System
-
Describe the relationship of Structural, Functional and Vectoring interventions and give an example of when each is appropriate
-
Use Functional Subgrouping to contain differences and maintain stability
-
Use the protocols appropriate to Flight, Fight, Role-Lock dynamics
Presentation Content
Agazarian’s (1997) theory of living human systems, with its systems-centered approach to group practice, represents a developed and comprehensive systems theory applied to groups, individuals and couples. The theory of living human systems has defined theoretical constructs and operational definitions that implement and test the theoretical hypotheses in its practice. There is also significant peer-reviewed published support for the theory and its practice, including articles in the International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, Group Dynamics, Small Group Research, Organizational Analysis, and Group Analysis. The systems-centered approach to group and organizational work has been in the field for over 20 years, presented in approximately 30 articles in peer reviewed professional journals. Its methods incorporate techniques linked to successful strategies for improvement in work with groups and individuals.
Supporting References
Agazarian, Y.M. (2012). Systems-centered group psychotherapy: Putting theory into practice. International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, 62(2) 171-195. doi: 10.1521/ijgp.2012.62.2.171
Agazarian, Y.M., & Gantt, S.P. (2014). Systems-centered training with couples: Building marriages that work. Systemic Thinking & Psychotherapy, 5.
Gantt, S.P. (2011). Systems-centered approach to groups. In J. Kleinberg (Ed.), The Wiley-Blackwell handbook of group psychotherapy (pp. 113-138). Oxford, UK: Wiley.
Davis, R. (2013). Creating the conditions for all voices to be heard: Strategies for working with differences. e-O&P Journal of the Association for Management Education and Development, 20(1), 23-29.
Gantt, S.P. (2013). Applying systems-centered theory (SCT) and methods in organizational contexts: Putting SCT to work. International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, 63(2), 234-258. doi: 10.1521/ijgp.2013.63.2.234
O’Neill, R.M., & Mogle, J. (2015). Systems-centered functional subgrouping and large group outcome. GROUP: The Journal of the Eastern Group Psychotherapy Society, 39(4), 303-317. doi: 10.13186/group.39.4.0303
Presenters
Frances Carter, MSS, LSW, CGP. Frances Carter, MSS, LSW, CGP, is a Licensed Social Worker, living and working in the Philadelphia area. She maintains a clinical and consulting practice working with individuals, couples, groups and organizations. Fran is a founding member of the Systems-Centered Training and Research Institute, and a Board Member and System Mentor. She continues to be interested in the development of training, curriculum and research and has contributed her time to these work groups within SCTRI. She is a licensed Systems-Centered Practitioner and a senior trainer, leading workshops, ongoing training and consultation groups and intensive training blocks throughout the US and Europe. She is also a principle in SAVI Communications and the SAVI Network where she works with others to develop training in the SAVI approach to communication. She brings to all her work the energy and creativity of her early background as an artist.
301-IC | Intermediate Skills Training
Trainer(s): Susan Beren , Ph.D.
; Madeline O'Carroll, MSc, PGDip, RMN, SFHEA
Intermediate skills training shifts focus from work with oneself to work with others. This intensive 7-day training introduces the SCT protocols with an emphasis on the theoretical context within which the protocol is used, and the actual steps in each technical skill that make up the protocol. Participants will videotape their practice of each skill and lead a small task group reviewing videotaped sections with an eye on building the skill of force field development.
By application to assess your readiness for this training (see link below). Send application to both Susan Beren and Madeline O'Carroll.
APPLICATION DEADLINE: February 10, 2019
7-day group, meets on Institute weekend and continues Mon - Fri mornings.
Note: One of the leaders of your training group (or, if in unusual circumstances, you are not part of a training group, a system mentor) should be consulted as to your readiness for this training. This is the first of the core Intermediate SCT trainings.
Category:
Institute
Track:
Clinical|Organizational|Theory and Basics|Education
Level:
Intermediate Level |
CE credits:
30.0
Format:
Didactic, small group skills practice, videotaped role plays and force field reviews
Day(s):
Saturday
& Sunday
,
Start: 9:00am End: Saturday 5:30pm, Sunday 4:30pm
|
Learning Objectives
Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:
-
Demonstrate ability to introduce functional subgrouping to a group
-
Demonstrate ability to use SCT protocols for undoing distractions, anxiety, tension, depression, outrages, and role-locks
-
Apply a basic understanding of the theoretical context for the use of SCT protocols
-
Create a force field to analyze what helps or hinders the application of protocols
-
Demonstrate ability to provide feedback based on facts, not opinions
-
Demonstrate ability to lead a small task group
Presentation Content
Agazarian’s (1997) theory of living human systems, with its systems-centered approach to group practice, represents a developed and comprehensive systems theory applied to groups, individuals and couples. The theory of living human systems has defined theoretical constructs and operational definitions that function as hypotheses to test both the validity of the theory and the reliability of its practice.
This theory and its methods are accepted among group practitioners as evidenced by SCTRI’s 2010 recognition for “Outstanding Contributions in Education and Training in the Field of Group Psychotherapy” awarded by the National Registry of Certified Group Psychotherapists. SCT methods are regularly cited or included in handbooks and reviews of group psychotherapy practice. There is also significant peer-reviewed published support for the theory and its practice, including articles in the International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, Group Dynamics, Small Group Research, Organizational Analysis, and Group Analysis.
Supporting References
Agazarian, Y.M. (1997). Systems-centered therapy for groups. New York, NY: Guilford Press. Re-printed in paperback (2004). London, UK: Karnac Books.
Agazarian, Y.M. (1999). Phases of development in the systems-centered group. Small Group Research, 30(1), 82-107. doi: 10.1177/104649649903000105
Agazarian, Y.M., & Byram, C. (2009). First build the system: The systems-centered approach to combined psychotherapy. GROUP: The Journal of the Eastern Group Psychotherapy Society, 33(2), 129-148.
Gantt, S.P. (1996). Defense analysis: Linking SCT theory and practice - cognitive defenses. SCT Journal: Systems-Centered Theory and Practice, 1, 35-40.
Presenters
Susan Beren, Ph.D.. Susan Beren, Ph.D., is a licensed clinical psychologist who has worked in multiple city hospitals and been in private practice in New York City for the last 20 years, doing therapy with individuals, couples and groups and providing supervision and consultation. Susan has taught, done research on and co-authored several papers on the multiple causes and treatment of eating disorders and obesity. She is a licensed Systems-Centered Training practitioner.
Madeline O'Carroll, MSc, PGDip, RMN, SFHEA. Madeline O'Carroll, MSc, is a Licensed Systems-Centered Practitioner, a Senior Lecturer in Mental Health Nursing at City, University of London and a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy. She has worked in mental health for thirty years as a clinician and an educator. Madeline is a qualified teacher with extensive experience of developing and delivering education and training and she also runs therapy groups for people with psychosis.
401-IC | Authority Issue Group
Trainer(s): Susan P. Gantt , Ph.D., CGP, ABPP, DFAGPA, FAPA
; Ray Haddock, MBChB, M.MedSc, FRCPsych
This training is an ongoing event that confronts the hatred of authority, one’s own and others’. Alternating between training group practicum and review work, the program will focus on applying the Theory of Living Human Systems in exploring the issues of giving and taking authority. This training is by application only for SCTRI members who are committed to becoming a licensed SCT practitioner, who have completed all prerequisite intermediate training, and meet the criteria for group membership (see SCT Training Curriculum for details). Joining this group means committing to twice yearly meetings for the duration of the group.
This is a closed group. 7-day group, meets on Institute weekend and continues Mon - Fri mornings.
Note: Participation in intermediate level training requires actively receiving consultation from an SCT Licensed Practitioner.
Category:
Institute
Track:
Clinical|Organizational|Education
Level:
Intermediate Level |
CE credits:
27.5
Format:
Experiential, group practicum
Day(s):
Saturday
& Sunday
,
Start: 9:00am End: Saturday 5:30pm, Sunday 4:30pm
|
Learning Objectives
Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:
-
Demonstrate ability to shift from person to member in a developing group in each of its phases of system development
-
Utilize leadership and membership roles working in the context of a peer task-focused group
-
Apply SCT methods to weaken the restraining forces in shifting from person to member
-
Describe the concept of hatred of authority
-
Explain the role relationships with external authority and one’s internal authority
-
Practice working in membership with leadership towards the goal of increasing awareness of the driving and restraining forces related to leadership effectiveness, both internal in relationship to the personality style, task/maintenance dimensions, and the effect of leadership behaviors on the group's membership, subgroups and the group-as-a-whole
Presentation Content
Agazarian’s (1997) theory of living human systems, with its systems-centered approach to group practice, represents a developed and comprehensive systems theory applied to groups, individuals and couples. The theory of living human systems has defined theoretical constructs and operational definitions that function as hypotheses to test both the validity of the theory and the reliability of its practice. This theory and its methods are accepted among group practitioners as evidenced by SCTRI’s 2010 recognition for “Outstanding Contributions in Education and Training in the Field of Group Psychotherapy” awarded by the National Registry of Certified Group Psychotherapists. SCT methods are regularly cited or included in handbooks and reviews of group psychotherapy practice. There is also significant peer-reviewed published support for the theory and its practice, including articles in the International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, Group Dynamics, Small Group Research, Organizational Analysis, and Group Analysis.
Supporting References
Agazarian, Y.M. (1994). The phases of development and the systems-centered group. In M. Pines, & V. Schermer (Eds.), Ring of fire: Primitive object relations and affect in group psychotherapy (pp. 36-85). London, UK: Routledge, Chapman & Hall.
Agazarian, Y.M. (1997). Systems-centered therapy for groups. New York, NY: Guilford Press. Re-printed in paperback (2004). London, UK: Karnac Books.
Agazarian, Y.M. (1999). Phases of development in the systems-centered group. Small Group Research, 30(1), 82-107.
Agazarian, Y.M. (2012). Systems-centered group psychotherapy: Putting theory into practice. International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, 62(2) 171–195. doi: 10.1521/ijgp.2012.62.2.171
Armington, R. (2012). Exploring the convergence of systems-centered therapy’s functional subgrouping and the principles of interpersonal neurobiology. Journal of Interpersonal Neurobiology Studies, 1, 51-55.
Brabender, V., & Fallon, A. (2008). Group development in practice: Guidance for clinicians and researchers on stages and dynamics of change. Washington, DC: American Psychological Association.
Gantt, S.P., & Agazarian, Y.M. (2017). Systems-centered group therapy. International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, 67(sup1), S60-S70. doi: 10.1080/00207284.2016.1218768
Moreno, J.K. (2007). Scapegoating in group psychotherapy. International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, 57(1), 93-104.
Presenters
Susan P. Gantt, Ph.D., CGP, ABPP, DFAGPA, FAPA. Susan P. Gantt, Ph.D., ABPP, CGP, DFAGPA, FAPA, is a psychologist in private practice in Atlanta and Emerita faculty at Emory University School of Medicine, Psychiatry department, where she taught and coordinated group psychotherapy training for 29 years. She is the Chair of the Systems-Centered Training and Research Institute, which was recognized with the 2010 Award for Outstanding Contributions in Education and Training in the Field of Group Psychotherapy by the National Registry of Certified Group Psychotherapists. She trains, supervises and consults in the practice of SCT in the US and Europe and leads ongoing training groups for therapists and consultants in Atlanta, San Francisco and the Netherlands. She has published numerous journal articles and co-authored the texts Autobiography of a Theory, SCT in Action, and Systems-Centered Therapy: Clinical Practice with Individuals, Families & Groups with Yvonne Agazarian. She co-edited the book The Interpersonal Neurobiology of Group Psychotherapy and Group Process with Bonnie Badenoch in 2013. She was awarded the 2011 Alonso Award for Excellence in Psychodynamic Group Psychotherapy by the Group Psychotherapy Foundation for her work in editing (with Paul Cox) the special issue of the International Journal of Group Psychotherapy on “Neurobiology and Interpersonal Systems: Groups, Couples and Beyond.”
Ray Haddock, MBChB, M.MedSc, FRCPsych. Ray Haddock, MBChB, M.MedSc, FRCPsych, Member of Institute of Group Analysis, Licensed Systems-Centered Practitioner. He qualified in medicine in 1982, trained in Psychiatry then in Psychotherapy in Leeds (UK). He has wide experience of leading SCT training groups and workshops in UK, Europe and the USA. He has practiced as a Consultant Medical Psychotherapist in the UK for over 20 years and has also had a number of management roles in the NHS, including service development and implementation of training programs for psychiatry trainees. He taught psychotherapy based on SCT to junior psychiatrists and psychotherapy trainees for over 20 years. Clinically he uses SCT in individual and group therapy and has developed a manual to support this work. He uses the Theory of Living Human Systems in day-to-day organizational work, consultation and leadership.
402-I | Observing a Systems-Centered Foundation Group: Training for Trainers and Advanced Intermediate Leaders
Trainer(s): Annie MacIver , MA, DipSW
; A. Meigs Ross, M.Div., LCSW
This task-focused training is an opportunity to observe a two-day foundation group through the first phases of system development, tracking group dynamics and phase while linking leader interventions to theory and methods.
Minimum membership criterion is Mentor Training experience.
By application only. To apply, contact Annie MacIver
Category:
Institute
Track:
Clinical|Organizational
Level:
Intermediate Level|Advanced Level |
CE credits:
11.5
Format:
Observation, force field, discussion
Day(s):
Saturday
& Sunday
,
Start: 9:00am End: Saturday 5:30pm, Sunday 4:30pm
|
Learning Objectives
Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:
-
Describe leader interventions in creating a working SCT group
-
Discuss the leader's use of methods and techniques of SCT in relation to the group's movement through the early phases of development
-
Create a force field of leader behaviors as driving or restraining forces toward the development of all system levels (member, subgroup, group-as-a-whole)
-
Discuss leader interventions and consequent behavioral data in relation to the Theory of Living Human Systems
-
List 3 examples of member, subgroup and group-as-a-whole behaviors as reflections of phase of group development
-
List 3 examples of changes in behaviors as members learn to move from person to member, to member of a subgroup and to the group-as-a-whole
Presentation Content
The systems-centered approach to group and organizational work has been in the field for over 20 years, presented in approximately 30 articles in peer-reviewed professional journals. Its methods incorporate techniques linked to successful strategies for improvement in group and individual psychotherapy, for example, modifying cognitive distortions, increasing group cohesion, lowering scapegoating, and reducing somatic defenses.
Supporting References
Agazarian, Y.M. (2010). Systems-centered theory and practice: The contribution of Yvonne Agazarian (Edited by SCTRI.) Livermore, CA: WingSpan Press. Reprint (2011). London, UK: Karnac Books.
Agazarian, Y.M. (2012). Systems-centered group psychotherapy: A theory of living human systems and its systems-centered practice. GROUP: The Journal of the Eastern Group Psychotherapy Society, 36(1), 19-36.
Agazarian, Y.M. (2012). Systems-centered group psychotherapy: Putting theory into practice. International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, 62(2) 171-195. doi: 10.1521/ijgp.2012.62.2.171
Presenters
Annie MacIver, MA, DipSW. Annie MacIver, MA, DipSW, is a Social Worker who specialises in working with children and their families. Annie is Director of Family Operations for a large local authority in England and is engaged in applying systems-centred theory and methods to enhancing leadership capacity and capability in complex organisational contexts. She is a licensed Systems-Centered Practitioner and Board Member.
A. Meigs Ross, M.Div., LCSW. The Rev. A. Meigs Ross, M.Div., LCSW, is a psychotherapist and consultant in private practice in New York City. She is also an adjunct professor and Clinical Pastoral Education Supervisor at Union Theological Seminary in New York and Jewish Theological Seminary. She is an Episcopal priest, a licensed systems-centered consultant and therapist SCTRI, a certified clinical pastoral educator with the Association for Clinical Pastoral Education, a certified chaplain with the Association for Professional Chaplains and a licensed Clinical Social Worker. Rev. Ross has served as the Manager of Pastoral Care and Education at New York Presbyterian Hospital the Director of Clinical Pastoral Education at the HealthCare Chaplaincy in New York and continues to serve as a consultant with New York Presbyterian Hospital and the Episcopal Church. Rev. Ross received a Master of Divinity from Union Theological Seminary and an MSW from New York University.
502-IC | Advanced Training for Trainers and Leaders: Tracking Group Development
Trainer(s): Dorothy Gibbons , MSS, LCSW
; Juliet Koprowska, MSW
This training observes the Authority Issue Group to track group dynamics, phase of system development, communication patterns that support the phase, leadership interventions linking interventions to theory and group functioning. Goal: To learn through observation to collect data about the impact of leader interventions in each phase of development and, through experience, to collect data about system isomorphy.
Prerequisite: Completion of the Authority Issue Group.
This is a closed group. 7-day group, meets on Institute weekend and continues Mon - Fri mornings.
Category:
Institute
Track:
Clinical|Organizational|Education|General Interest
Level:
Advanced Level |
CE credits:
27.5
Format:
Observation, didactic, experiential, group practicum
Day(s):
Saturday
& Sunday
,
Start: 9:00am End: Saturday 5:30pm, Sunday 4:30pm
|
Learning Objectives
Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:
-
Analyze the leaders' SCT interventions and relate to driving and restraining forces in the phases of system development
-
Identify a predictable hierarchy of defense modification
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Describe observations and apply experience to a Theory of Living Human Systems and systems-centered practice
-
Compare isomorphy between group being observed and observing group
-
Assess effectiveness of functional subgrouping in advanced training group (Authority Issue Group)
-
Demonstrate development of advanced training skills in the training group context
Presentation Content
Learning methods: Systems-centered practice and training was developed by Yvonne Agazarian over a number of decades. This training is offered from foundation level to licensing and more recently the Systems-Centered Training and Research Institute (SCTRI) has pioneered advanced training for trainers and leaders, a training group for advanced practitioners who who wish to enhance their skills as trainers. This training is a twice yearly training observing the training and development of the Authority Issue Group (AIG). SCTRI was presented with the 2010 Award for Outstanding Contributions in Education and Training in the Field of Group Psychotherapy by the National Registry of Certified Group Psychotherapists. The training consists of observation of the AIG training group led by Susan Gantt and Ray Haddock. Discussion and exploration, using the observations to provide data for tracking group dynamics, phase of system development, communication patterns that support the phase, leadership interventions to member, subgroup and group-as-a-whole, while linking interventions to theory and group functioning. Skills practice: using the group to practice and build on skills of giving and taking authority in training roles.
Supporting References
Armington, R. (2012). Exploring the convergence of systems-centered therapy’s functional subgrouping and the principles of interpersonal neurobiology. Journal of Interpersonal Neurobiology Studies, 1, 51-55.
Brabender, V., & Fallon, A. (2009). Group development in practice. Washington, DC: American Psychological Association.
Gantt, S.P. (2011). Systems-centered approach to groups. In J. Kleinberg (Ed.), The Wiley-Blackwell handbook of group psychotherapy (pp. 113-138). Oxford, UK: Wiley.
Gantt, S.P., & Agazarian, Y.M. (2010). Developing the group mind through functional subgrouping: Linking systems-centered training (SCT) and interpersonal neurobiology. International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, 60(4), 515-544. doi: 10.1521/ijgp.2010.60.4.515
Gantt, S.P., & Badenoch, B. (Eds.) (2013). The interpersonal neurobiology of group psychotherapy and group process. London, UK: Karnac Books.
O'Neill, R.M., Smyth, J.M., & MacKenzie, M.J. (2011). Systems-centered functional subgrouping links the member to the group dynamics and goals: How-to and a pilot study. GROUP: The Journal of the Eastern Group Psychotherapy Society, 35(2), 105-121.
O’Neill, R.M., Constantino, M.J., & Mogle, J. (2012). Does Agazarian’s systems-centered functional subgrouping improve mood, learning and goal achievement?: A study in large groups. Group Analysis, 45, 375-390. doi: 10.1177/0533316412448287
Presenters
Dorothy Gibbons, MSS, LCSW. Dorothy Gibbons, MSS, LCSW, is a licensed Systems-Centered Practitioner. She is in private practice in Philadelphia, PA. She works with individuals, groups, and couples. She also works as an organizational consultant to a social service agency in Philadelphia. Ms. Gibbons is the former Director of the Adolescent Sex Offender Unit at the Joseph J. Peters Institute in Philadelphia and has extensive experience working with both victims and offenders of sexual abuse. She is on the Board of Directors of the Systems-Centered Training and Research Institute. She is also a graduate of the Gestalt Therapy Training.
Juliet Koprowska, MSW. Juliet Koprowska, MSW, Diploma in Counselling, has extensive experience of systems-centered training at an advanced level, most recently as a member of the group observing the last Authority Issue/Licensing Group. She is Senior Lecturer in Social Work at the University of York where her main roles are teaching qualifying and registered social workers. Her areas of expertise are communication, family work, group work, and field education. She researches communication in social work practice and is author of "Communication and Interpersonal Skills in Social Work" (4th edition). London: Sage Learning Matters, a book widely used on social work programmes in the UK. She organises the annual SCT event held in York, England.