SCT Conference 2023 - the Workshops

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100-I | Systems-Centered Foundation Training for Groups and Individuals

Trainer(s): Robert Hartford , MA, LICSW ; Heather Twomey, Ph.D.

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: Open to All Levels|Foundation Level

CE credits: 11.5 Format: Didactic|Demonstration|Experiential Day(s): Saturday & Sunday , Start: 9:00 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. A 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. (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.

Gantt, S.P., & Badenoch, B. (Eds.) (2013). The interpersonal neurobiology of group psychotherapy and group process. London, UK: Karnac Books.

Agazarian, Y.M., Gantt, S.P., & Carter, F. (Eds.) (2021). Systems-centered training: An illustrated guide for applying a theory of living human systems. London, UK: Routledge.

Gantt, S.P. (2018). Developing groups that change our minds and transform our brains: Systems-centered's functional subgrouping, its impact on our neurobiology, and its role in each phase of group development. Psychoanalytic Inquiry: Today's Bridge Between Psychoanalysis and the Group World [Special Issue], 38(4), 270-284. doi: 10.1080/07351690.2018.1444851

Presenters

Robert Hartford, MA, LICSW. Robert Hartford, LICSW, is a licensed psychotherapist in Washington, DC, California and New York and an Executive and Organizational Development Coach. He is a Licensed Systems-Centered Practitioner, ICEEFT Certified Therapist, and a Certified Daring Way™ Facilitator (CDFW). In 2001, he founded Solutions & Results, in Washington, DC, an independent therapy center focusing on emotional development and transformation. Robert received his post-master's training at the Systems Centered Training and Research Institute, and trained at San Francisco General Hospital, Psychiatric Department and Kaiser Department of Psychiatry.

Heather Twomey, Ph.D.. Heather B. Twomey, PhD., is a Clinical Psychologist who has trained in Systems-Centered Therapy (SCT) steadily since 1996. She is currently an SCT Licensed Practitioner who leads and co-leads in various SCT training contexts including conferences, workshops and training groups. Additionally, she practices in private practice where she conducts groups, individual, and couples therapy. She completed her Ph.D. in 1997 at Miami University. She completed her pre-doctoral internship and post-doctoral fellowship at Emory University.

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201-I | SAVI Fundamentals - Observing Behavior, Seeing Systems: At Work, In Therapy, At Home

Trainer(s): Hella Ritz , MA ; Verena Murpy, Ph.D., LISW

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 patterns to “see” the system: how it is built by contributions from all the members -- and how to shift your own behavior to build more productive and satisfying interactions. 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: Didactic|Demonstration|Experiential Day(s): Saturday & Sunday , Start: 9:00 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

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. 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. (2000). Autobiography of a theory: Developing a theory of living human systems and its systems-centered practice. London, UK: Jessica Kingsley.

Agazarian, Y.M., Gantt, S.P., & Carter, F.B. (2021). Systems-centered training: An illustrated guide for applying a theory of living human systems. London, UK: Routledge.

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. doi: 10.1016/j.hrmr.2011.11.007

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. https://hbr.org/2018/05/the-surprising-power-of-questions

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

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.

Wheelan, S. (2016). Creating effective teams: A guide for members and leaders (5th ed). Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage.

Presenters

Hella Ritz, MA. Hella Ritz, MA, is a Certified SAVI Trainer and a Licensed SCT Practitioner. She holds a Masters degree in Business Communication. Hella has 10 years of experience in management roles and over 25 years as a management consultant, trainer and coach. Hella uses SAVI in developing management teams to foster productive and collaborative meetings and to solve conflicts. She also conducts SAVI as Introductory and follow up curriculum trainings. Hella is a member of the Dutch SCT Board.

Verena Murpy, Ph.D., LISW. Verena Murphy, Ph.D., LISW, began training with Yvonne Agazarian in 1993, and the co-originator of SAVI, Anita Simon, in 1997. She has used SCT theory and practice, as well as SAVI, in her personal development, as a partner, mother and grandmother, as a clinical Social Worker in inpatient and outpatient settings, as former assistant professor in Management and Information Systems, and as organizational consultant and trainer in Europe. She resides in Oregon, where she is in private practice online.

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202-I | Can a Systems-Centered Approach Influence an Inherently Unequal System?

Trainer(s): Brian Conley, S.J. , ACPE Certified Educator, MBA, MAPR ; Janneke Maas , MSc, BA ; Angelika Zollfrank , MDiv, BCC, ACPE, HEC-C

By playing the game Inequality Monopoly, participants will experience a system in which resources are not equally divided. The Saturday session will focus on role systems evoked by the inequality and how undoing survival roles evoked might influence the system-as-a-whole. Participants will subgroup around how the experience applies to other systems – including SCTRI. The Sunday session will focus on how a systems-centered approach can influence the system-as-a-whole to modify the built in inequality.

Category: Institute Track: General Interest Level: Open to All Levels

CE credits: 11.5 Format: Didactic|Experiential Day(s): Saturday & Sunday , Start: 9:00 End: Saturday 5:30pm, Sunday 4:30pm

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Describe two driving and two restraining forces to managing experience in an inherently unequal context
• Discuss role systems triggered in an unequal context
• Critique wider contexts on inequality (SCTRI, society, work, family) 
• Discuss one driving/restraining force to potential modifications to an unequal system
• Explain how functional subgrouping is driving to explore potential modifications to the unequal system
• Apply insights gained on role systems exploration to other unequal contexts

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. A 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.

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.

In this workshop we will explore using the SCT theory and methods how members experience a socially unequal situation, using Inequality Monopoly. Sociologists have used Inequality Monopoly to teach about social classes and inequalities.

Supporting References

Agazarian, Y.M. (1997). Systems-centered therapy for groups. New York, NY: Guilford. Re-printed in paperback (2004). London, UK: Karnac Books.

Agazarian, Y.M., Gantt, S.P., & Carter, F. (Eds.) (2021). Systems-centered training: An illustrated guide for applying a theory of living human systems. London, UK: Routledge

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.

Eberhardt, J.L. (2019). Blindspot: Hidden biases of good people. New York, NY: Bantam Books.

Elliot, K.K. Khan Academy, https://www.khanacademy.org/humanities/us-history/colonial-america/early-chesapeake-and-southern-colonies/v/jamestown-bacons-rebellion

Ender, M.G. (2004). Modified Monopoly: Experiencing social class inequality. United States Military Academy. Academic Exchange Quarterly, 8(2).

Eng, D. (2019). Games for adult learning. https://medium.com/@davengdesign/games-for-adult-learning-7810fa861600, (December 17, 2019).

Fisher, E.M. (2008). USA stratified Monopoly: A simulation game about social class stratification. Teaching Sociology, 36(3), 272-282. https://www.jstor.org/stable/20491245

Piff, P. https://www.ted.com/talks/paul_piff_does_money_make_you_mean

Popescu, M., Romero, M., & Usart, M. (2012). Using serious games in adult education. Serious business for serious people - the MetaVals game case study. ICVL 2012-7th International Conference on Virtual Learning.

Presenters

Brian Conley, S.J. , ACPE Certified Educator, MBA, MAPR . Brian has over 20 years experience as a chaplain, chaplain educator, and Roman Catholic priest. He currently serves as Parochial Vicar at Our Lady of Hope Parish where he works with individuals and groups. He has been active in SCTRI since 2006 and recently completed the Authority Issue Group. He also serves as Chaplain to the faculty and staff at Cheverus High School in Portland, ME where works with faculty to develop and integrate Ignatian spirituality into their personal and professional lives.

Janneke Maas , MSc, BA. Janneke Maas, MSc, works as a team coach and leadership development trainer in the Netherlands. She works with teams, individuals, and organizations. The core of her work is freeing up energy for work and relations that support work and fun while working. She also educates people that want to become a team coach and learn the trade. Janneke is part of the SCT Conference system as Co-director and leader of the Program Planning group and had recently finished the Authority Issue Group.

Angelika Zollfrank , MDiv, BCC, ACPE, HEC-C. Angelika has worked as a chaplain, certified CPE educator, and Lutheran Pastor for 22 years. She is currently offering spiritual care and education at McLean Hospital, the Harvard-affiliated Psychiatric Hospital in Belmont, MA. She also has a small private practice in which she offers clinical spiritual consultation.

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301-IC | Intermediate Skills Training

Trainer(s): Susan Beren , Ph.D. ; Madeline O'Carroll, MSc, RMN ; A. Meigs Ross, ACPE, LCSW-R

7-day group, meets on Institute weekend and continues Monday-Friday as full-morning training.

Intermediate skills training shifts focus from work with oneself to work with others. In this intensive 7-day training, participants are introduced to SCT protocols with an emphasis on the theoretical context for the intervention and the technical skills that make up each protocol. Participants then record their practice of each protocol and lead a small task group reviewing recorded sections in order to identify specific driving and restraining forces of their work.

By application to assess your readiness for this training (see link below). Send application to both Susan Beren and Madeline O'Carroll

APPLICATION DEADLINE: Saturday, February 4, 2023

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: 27.5 Format: Didactic|Demonstration|Experiential Day(s): Saturday & Sunday , Start: 9:00 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. A 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. (2017). The nuts and bolts of systems-centered practice. Systems-Centered News, 26(1), 5-9.

Agazarian, Y.M., Gantt, S.P., & Carter, F. (Eds.) (2021). Systems-centered training: An illustrated guide for applying a theory of living human systems. London, UK: Routledge.

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

Gantt, S.P., & Agazarian, Y.M. (2017). Systems centered group therapy. International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, 67(sup 1), S60-S70 doi: 10.1080/00207284.2016.1218768

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 23 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 Practitioner. She co-leads a Foundation-level SCT training group on Zoom.

Madeline O'Carroll, MSc, RMN. Madeline O'Carroll, MSc, RMN, is a Senior Lecturer in Mental Health Nursing in London and a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy with thirty years of experience in mental health as an educator, clinician and mentor. Her group work experience includes therapy groups for people with psychosis, groups to support mental health students process the impact of their work, and SCT training groups. She has been a member of SCTRI since 2004 and has completed the Authority Issue Group.

A. Meigs Ross, ACPE, LCSW-R. A. Meigs Ross, ACPE, LCSW-R, is a licensed clinical social worker in private practice in New York providing psychotherapy for individuals, couples, and groups and providing consultation for individuals and groups and organizations. Meigs is also a certified clinical pastoral educator, national faculty member with the Association for Clinical Pastoral Education, currently supervising certified educator students at New York Presbyterian Hospital and Jewish Theological Seminary. She is a Licensed Systems-Centered Practitioner. She co-leads a Foundation-level SCT training group on Zoom.

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401-IC | Authority Issue Group

Trainer(s): Susan P. Gantt , Ph.D., CGP, ABPP, DFAGPA, FAPA ; Ray Haddock, MBChB, M.MedSc, FRCPsych

7-day group, meets on Institute weekend and continues Monday-Friday as full-morning training.

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 a 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 the Intermediate tab on SCT Training Curriculum for details. Joining this group means committing to twice yearly meetings for the duration of the group.

By application (see link below). Send application to Kathy Lum in her role as administrator for Susan Gantt.

APPLICATION DEADLINE: December 10, 2022 by 12:00pm noon ET

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 Day(s): Saturday & Sunday , Start: 9:00 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. A 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. doi: 10.1177/104649649903000105

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. (2018). The nuts and bolts of systems-centered practice. Systems-Centered News, 26(1), 5-9.

Agazarian, Y.M., Gantt, S.P., & Carter, F. (Eds.) (2021). Systems-centered training: An illustrated guide for applying a theory of living human systems. London, UK: Routledge.

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.

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

Susan P. Gantt, Ph.D., CGP, ABPP, DFAGPA, FAPA. Susan P. Gantt, Ph.D., ABPP, CGP, DFAGPA, FAPA, is a psychologist in private practice and coordinated group psychotherapy training in psychiatry at Emory University for 29 years. She chairs the Systems-Centered Training (SCT) and Research Institute; teaches SCT in the USA, Europe and China; and leads training groups in Atlanta, San Francisco, and The Netherlands. She has co-authored four books with Yvonne Agazarian, co-edited The Interpersonal Neurobiology of Group Psychotherapy and Group Process with Bonnie Badenoch, and received the 2011 Alonso Award for Excellence in Psychodynamic Group Psychotherapy. Her latest book is Systems-Centered Training: An Illustrated Guide for Applying a Theory of Living Human Systems (Agazarian, Gantt & Carter, 2021).

Ray Haddock, MBChB, M.MedSc, FRCPsych. Ray Haddock, MBChB, M.MedSc, FRCPsych, is a licensed Systems-Centered practitioner, a Director of SCTUK, a member of the Systems-Centered Training and Research Institute Board of Directors and of the Board of the International Association of Group Psychotherapy and of the Institute of Group Analysis. He spent many years as a medical psychotherapist in the NHS as a therapist and training psychiatrists in therapeutic skills. As a Licensed Systems-Centered Practitioner and trainer he undertakes training, consultation, personal development, mentoring and therapy in the UK and internationally.

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402-I | Coaching Individuals and Teams: A Systems-Centered Perspective

Trainer(s): Rowena Davis , MSc

Coaching from a Systems-Centered perspective: what does it look and feel like and what difference does it make? We will use a Theory of Living Human Systems and its Systems-Centered practice to explore what we know and discover new learning. Using participants’ live examples, we will practise and role play coaching.

Prerequisite: Completion of Intermediate Skills Training (IST) or by application (see link below) to assess your readiness. If you have not yet completed IST, send application with details of your SCT training to date to Rowena Davis and Annie MacIver

APPLICATION DEADLINE: February 27, 2023

Note: Participation in intermediate level training requires actively receiving consultation from an SCT Licensed Practitioner.

Category: Institute Track: Clinical|Organizational Level: Intermediate Level|Advanced Level

CE credits: 11.5 Format: Didactic|Demonstration|Experiential Day(s): Saturday & Sunday , Start: 9:00 End: Saturday 5:30pm, Sunday 4:30pm

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• State one goal of coaching from a systems-centered perspective
• Apply a Theory of Living Human Systems to a coaching context
• Apply the SCT notions of role, goal and context in a coaching setting
• Use the person-as-a-system map to take up an Inter-Person role as a coach
• Practice reducing ambiguity, redundancy and contradictions
• Use the force field as a tool to identify behaviors that support or get in the way of goal achievement

Presentation Content

Systemic coaching is widely acknowledged as an effective approach to aligning individuals and the teams in which they work to the organization they work for. Systemic Coaching has its roots in principles of Organisational Development, where the individual self is viewed in relationship to others, and in relation to the larger organizational or institutional ecosystem. Abraham Maslow, Carl Rogers, Kurt Lewin, Edgar Schein, Peter Senge, Peter Hawkins and Otto Scharmer have contributed to the systemic view in their approaches. SCT’s unique contribution is having a theory, methods and techniques and in focusing on discriminating and integrating differences at all system levels.

Supporting References

Agazarian, Y.M. (1997). Systems centered therapy for groups. New York, NY: Guilford. Re-printed in paperback (2004). London, UK: Karnac Books.

Agazarian, Y.M., Gantt, S.P., & Carter, F. (Eds.) (2021). Systems-centered training: An illustrated guide for applying a theory of living human systems. London, UK: Routledge.

Davis, R. (2020). How do we keep theory alive and use it in practice? Systems-Centered News, 28(1), 7-10.

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.

Presenters

Rowena Davis, MSc. Rowena Davis, MSc, is an organizational consultant working with public, private and not-for-profit organizations in the UK and internationally. Her work combines coaching individuals and teams; strategic marketing and planning; mapping systems; and running SCT and SAVI trainings in the US and Europe. She is a Licensed Systems-Centered Practitioner, a certified SAVI trainer, a member of the Systems-Centered Training and Research Institute Board and a Director of SCT UK. She holds an MSc in Change Agent Skills & Strategies (Distinction) from the University of Surrey, a Dottore in Sociologia from the University of Trento, Italy, and a BSc (Econ) from the London School of Economics.

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403-I | Observing a Systems-Centered Foundation Group: Training for Trainers and Advanced Intermediate Leaders

Trainer(s): Norma Safransky , MD ; Dayne Naretta, LCSW, BCD, CGP, FAGPA

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.

Prerequisite: Completion of Mentor Training

Note: Participation in intermediate level training requires actively receiving consultation from an SCT Licensed Practitioner.

Category: Institute Track: Clinical|Organizational|General Interest Level: Intermediate Level|Advanced Level

CE credits: 11.5 Format: Didactic|Demonstration|Experiential|Sharing of Experience Day(s): Saturday & Sunday , Start: 9:00 End: Saturday 5:30pm, Sunday 4:30pm

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Describe one leader intervention to reduce flight dynamics in an SCT group
• Describe 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)
• Describe one leader intervention in terms of its theoretical roots in a Theory of Living Human Systems
• Give one example of a leader intervention directed towards each system- member, subgroup, group-as-a-whole
• Give an example of a leader intervention that supported a member moving from person to member and member to subgroup

Presentation Content

The systems-centered approach to group and organizational work has been in the field for over 25 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. (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. (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., Gantt, S.P., & Carter, F. (Eds.) (2021). Systems-centered training: An illustrated guide for applying a theory of living human systems. London, UK: Routledge.

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

O’Neill, R.M. (2014). Systems-centered management: A brief review of theory, practice and research. Review of Public Administration and Management, 2(1). doi:10.4172/2315-7844.1000144

Presenters

Norma Safransky, MD. Norma Safransky, MD, is a Licensed SCT Practitioner in private practice in Chapel Hill, NC. Her work includes individual and group psychotherapy. She is a member of the Systems-Centered Training and Research Institute Board and the SCTRI Steering Group. She holds a Doctor of Medicine degree and completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of North Carolina. She holds a BS degree in zoology from Duke University.

Dayne Naretta, LCSW, BCD, CGP, FAGPA. Dayne Narretta, LCSW, BCD, CGP, FAGPA, is in Private Practice in Baton Rouge, LA. She has been facilitating groups since 1992. Most of her group training is through Systems-Centered Training Research Institute, American Group Psychotherapy Association and its affiliates and learning from the groups she leads. She does workshops and experiential groups for SCTRI, AGPA and its affiliates, universities, treatment centers and other organizations. She was introduced to Systems-Centered group work in 2004 and continues her training in the Systems-Centered Training and Research Institute. Dayne is currently a Co-Director for the Systems-Centered Training annual conference. She has served on the Board for American Group Psychotherapy Association, as an AGPA conference co-chair and on the Affiliate Society Assembly. In addition, she has served in numerous roles in the Louisiana Group Psychotherapy Society, including president.

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502-IC | Advanced Training for Trainers and Leaders: Tracking Group Development

Trainer(s): Dorothy Gibbons , MSS, LCSW ; Juliet Koprowska, MSW

7-day group, meets on Institute weekend and continues Monday-Friday as full-morning training.

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 system development and, through experience, to collect data about system isomorphy.

Prerequisite: Completion of the Authority Issue Group.

This is a new group that will continue to meet through the duration of the Authority Issue Group.

Category: Institute Track: Clinical|Organizational Level: Advanced Level

CE credits: 27.5 Format: Didactic|Demonstration|Experiential|Sharing of Experience Day(s): Saturday & Sunday , Start: 9:00 End: Saturday 5:30pm, Sunday 4:30pm

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Analyze the leader's SCT interventions as they relate to the system's phase of development
• Describe a predictable hierarchy of defense modification in the service of developing an SCT work phase group
• Relate observations to a Theory of Living Human Systems and systems-centered practice
• Develop a force field to identify the driving and restraining forces towards building a systems-centered group
• Assess effectiveness of functional subgrouping in an advanced training group (Authority Issue Group)
• Discuss examples of isomorphy between group being observed and observing group

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 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) & Licensing Group. 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 & Licensing 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

Agazarian, Y.M., Gantt, S.P., & Carter, F. (Eds.) (2021). Systems-centered training: An illustrated guide for applying a theory of living human systems. London, UK: Routledge.

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.

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., & Agazarian, Y.M. (2017). Systems-centered group therapy. International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, 67(sup1), S60-S70. doi: 10.1080/00207284.2016.1218768

Gantt, S.P., & Badenoch, B. (Eds.) (2013). The interpersonal neurobiology of group psychotherapy and group process. London, UK: Karnac Books.

Presenters

Dorothy Gibbons, MSS, LCSW. Dorothy Gibbons, MSS, LCSW, CGP, 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 is a Licensed Systems-Centered Practitioner. She is Honorary Fellow at the University of York where for many years she taught qualifying and registered social workers. She leads and co-leads SCT workshops and training in the UK, Italy and the US. She researches communication in social work practice and is author of "Communication and Interpersonal Skills in Social Work" (5th edition). London: Sage Learning Matters, a book widely used on social work programmes in the UK. She is co-editor with Juhila, K., Dall, T. & Hall, C. (2021), of "Interprofessional Collaboration and Service User Participation: Analysing meetings in social welfare." Bristol: Policy Press, which includes her chapter on ‘Relational agency and epistemic justice in Initial Child Protection Conferences’. She organises the annual SCT event held in York, England.

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Large Group

Trainer(s): Claudia Byram , Ph.D., CGP ; Fran Carter, MSS, LSW ; Susan Gantt, Ph.D., ABPP, CGP, DFAGPA, FAPA ; Ray Haddock, MBChB, M.MedSc, FRCPsych

Sunday 5:05-6:35; Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 4:20-5:50

This 90-minute conference-as-a-whole practicum starts the conference on Sunday evening and meets at the end of the day on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday to explore the conference experience using functional subgrouping.

The conference starts on Sunday evening with the first meeting of the Large Group. These four Large Group meetings are open to the entire conference community and demonstrate the application of SCT methods and techniques in the Large Group setting. The dynamics and potential of large group are crucial to our understanding of social forces at a different level from the more easily accessible family and small group setting. These forces are more similar to those operating in larger social systems, and therefore our understanding of how to relate to these larger contexts is an essential skill for social work and other social change advocates and professionals.

Note: You must attend all four days of Large Group in order to earn CE credits for Large Group.

Category: Large Group Track: Theory and Basics|General Interest Level: Open to All Levels

CE credits: 6.0 Format: Experiential Day(s): Sunday Monday Tuesday Thursday

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Describe the unique challenge of relating to the Large Group context
• Apply skills in relating to the Large Group context in a way that increases the potential to include (rather than exclude) diversities
• Demonstrate a practical understanding of the unique challenge of relating to the Large Group context
• Practice using functional subgrouping to recognize and integrate differences instead of ignoring or scapegoating them
• Describe one driving and one restraining force to Large Group functioning that I observed

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. A 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. (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. (1999). Phases of development in the systems-centered group. Small Group Research, 30(1), 82-107. doi: 10.1177/104649649903000105

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. (2018). The nuts and bolts of systems-centered practice. Systems-Centered News, 26(1), 5-9.

Agazarian, Y.M., Gantt, S.P., & Carter, F. (Eds.) (2021). Systems-centered training: An illustrated guide for applying a theory of living human systems. London, UK: Routledge.

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. (2018). Developing groups that change our minds and transform our brains: Systems-centered’s functional subgrouping, its impact on our neurobiology, and its role in each phase of group development. Psychoanalytic Inquiry: Today’s Bridge Between Psychoanalysis and the Group World [Special Issue]. 38(4), 270-284. doi: 10.1080/07351690.2018.1444851

Gantt, S.P., & Agazarian, Y.M. (2011). Highlights from ten years of a systems-centered large group: Work in progress. Voices: The Art and Science of Psychotherapy, 47(1), 40-50.

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

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(3), 375-390. doi: 10.1177/0533316412448287

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

Whitcomb, K.E., O’Neill, R.M., Burlingame, G.M., Mogle, J., Gantt, S.P., Cannon, J.A.N., & Roney, T. (2018). Measuring how systems-centered® members connect with group dynamics: FSQ-2 construct validity. International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, 68(2), 163-183. doi: 10.1080/00207284.2017.1381024

Presenters

Claudia Byram, Ph.D., CGP. Claudia Byram, Ph.D., CGP, 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. She has worked since 1980 as a clinician and trainer, with a doctorate in developmental and clinical psychology from Bryn Mawr College. She began work with Yvonne Agazarian in the early 80s, shifting from psychoanalytic practice toward systems as systems-centered therapy developed.

Fran Carter, MSS, LSW. Frances Carter, MSS, LSW, 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.

Susan Gantt, Ph.D., ABPP, CGP, DFAGPA, FAPA. Susan P. Gantt, Ph.D., ABPP, CGP, DFAGPA, FAPA, is a psychologist in private practice and coordinated group psychotherapy training in psychiatry at Emory University for 29 years. She chairs the Systems-Centered Training (SCT) and Research Institute; teaches SCT in the USA, Europe and China; and leads training groups in Atlanta, San Francisco, and The Netherlands. She has co-authored four books with Yvonne Agazarian, co-edited The Interpersonal Neurobiology of Group Psychotherapy and Group Process with Bonnie Badenoch, and received the 2011 Alonso Award for Excellence in Psychodynamic Group Psychotherapy. Her latest book is Systems-Centered Training: An Illustrated Guide for Applying a Theory of Living Human Systems (Agazarian, Gantt, & Carter, 2021).

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 a Theory of Living Human Systems in day-to-day organizational work, consultation and leadership.

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101-C | Systems-Centered Foundation Training Group

Trainer(s): Rick Campa , Ph.D., CGP ; Lotte Paans, MS

In this experiential training, members use functional subgrouping to learn about and explore the experience of applying systems-centered methods to build a working group. As members work together to modify personal and group constraints to growth, the group develops skills for solving problems in the uncertainty of everyday life.

Category: Early Morning Training Track: Clinical|Organizational|Theory and Basics|General Interest Level: Open to All Levels|Foundation Level

CE credits: 7.5 Format: Didactic|Experiential Day(s): Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday , 8:45 - 10:15

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Apply the skill of functional subgrouping to explore experience with others
• Apply the skill of centering
• Discriminate explaining from exploring experience in the present moment
• Practice identifying and undoing anxiety-provoking thoughts about the future and move attention to here-and-now reality
• Describe how to test the reality of mindreads of others
• Practice finding curiosity in the here-and-now in the face of uncertainty

Presentation Content

System-Centered methods and techniques used to run groups produce high levels of engagement, less avoidance, less conflict, better inter-member relationships, more overall learning and goal achievement, and are more collaborative, productive and creative than groups using various other communication structures. Research specifically examining functional subgrouping has shown that group members find it to be a positive experience and as it relates to increased morale, learning, and goal achievement. See O’Neill et al (2013) research below for related references.

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. (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., & Carter, F. (Eds.) (2021). Systems-centered training: An illustrated guide for applying a theory of living human systems. London, UK: Routledge.

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

Gantt, S.P., & Badenoch, B. (2013). The interpersonal neurobiology of group psychotherapy and group process. London, UK: Karnac Books.

O’Neill, R.M., Murphy, V., Mogle, J., MacKenzie, M.J., MacGregor, K.L., Pearson, M., & Parekh, M. (2013). Are systems-centered teams more collaborative, productive and creative? Journal of Team Performance Management, 19(3/4), 201-221. doi: 10.1108/TPM-04-2012-0015

Presenters

Rick Campa, Ph.D., CGP. Rick Campa, Ph.D., CGP, is a clinical psychologist located in Austin, Texas, and a licensed SCT practitioner and trainer. He studied clinical psychology at Boston University where he earned his doctorate in 1991. Rick moved to Austin, Texas, in 1991 and opened a private practice. He began formal training in SCT in 1998. He is currently a Licensed SCT Practitioner and offers therapy, training, and consultation in SCT theory, methods, and techniques locally and nationally.

Lotte Paans, MS. Lotte Paans, MS, is a Licensed SCT Practitioner. She runs a private practice for therapy and coaching in the Netherlands. She counsels individuals, couples and teams, provides training and supervision for (team)coaches and consultants and manages change in organizations using SCT. She leads ongoing Systems-Centered Training groups in the Netherlands, is a trainer at international SCT conferences and is the Chair and co-founder of the Dutch SCT Board.

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302-C | Intermediate Training: Working with Role Systems

Trainer(s): Rowena Davis , MSc ; Norma Safransky, MD

Participants will use SCT methods to build the group as a context for exploring the relationships among group-as-a-whole, member and inner-person systems. We will discover how communication outputs signal the source of the sending role-system and explore how the sending system relates to the group context. Members who have attended Intermediate Skills Training qualify. Any others use the application to assess your readiness.

Prerequisite: Completion of Intermediate Skills Training (IST) or by application to assess your readiness (see link below). If you have not yet completed IST, send application with details of your SCT training to date to Rowena Davis and Norma Safransky

APPLICATION DEADLINE: February 27, 2023

Note: Participation in intermediate level training requires actively receiving consultation from an SCT Licensed Practitioner.

Category: Early Morning Training Track: Clinical|Organizational Level: Intermediate Level

CE credits: 7.5 Format: Experiential Day(s): Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday , 8:45 - 10:15

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Describe one behavioral output of Inner-Person role-systems
• Describe one behavioral output of Inter-Person role-systems
• Describe one behavioral output of a whole system role
• Describe one example of a behavioral output of a closed survival role-system triggered in the Flight or Fight subphase
• Describe the connection between curiosity and opening closed survival role boundaries
• Describe one behavior that supports moving from a closed survival role-system to an Inter-Person role

Presentation Content

The systems-centered approach to group and organizational work has been in the field for over 25 years, presented in more than 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. (1997). Systems-centered therapy for groups. New York, NY: Guilford Press. Re-printed in paperback (2004). London, UK: Karnac Books.

Agazarian, Y.M., Gantt, S.P., & Carter, F. (Eds.) (2021). Systems-centered training: An illustrated guide for applying a theory of living human systems. London, UK: Routledge.

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. (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

Gantt, S.P. (2018). Developing groups that change our minds and transform our brains: Systems-centered’s functional subgrouping, its impact on our neurobiology, and its role in each phase of group development. Psychoanalytic Inquiry: Today’s Bridge Between Psychoanalysis and the Group World [Special Issue], 38(4), 270-284. doi: 10.1080/07351690.2018.1444851

Gantt, S.P. (2021). Systems-centered theory (SCT) into group therapy: Beyond surviving ruptures to repairing and thriving. International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, 71(2), 224-252. doi: 10.1080/00207284.2020.1772073

Presenters

Rowena Davis, MSc. Rowena Davis, MSc, is an organizational consultant working with public, private and not-for-profit organizations in the UK and internationally. Her work combines coaching individuals and teams; strategic marketing and planning; mapping systems; and running SCT and SAVI trainings in the US and Europe. She is a Licensed Systems-Centered Practitioner, a certified SAVI trainer, a member of the Systems-Centered Training and Research Institute Board and a Director of SCT UK. She holds an MSc in Change Agent Skills & Strategies (Distinction) from the University of Surrey, a Dottore in Sociologia from the University of Trento, Italy, and a BSc (Econ) from the London School of Economics.

Norma Safransky, MD. Norma Safransky, MD, is a Licensed SCT Practitioner in private practice in Chapel Hill, NC. Her work includes individual and group psychotherapy. She is a member of the Systems-Centered Training and Research Institute Board and the SCTRI Steering Group. She holds a Doctor of Medicine degree and completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of North Carolina. She holds a BS degree in zoology from Duke University.

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503-C | Advanced Training Group

Trainer(s): Frances Carter , MSS, LSW

Advanced members apply a Theory of Living Human Systems (TLHS) and SCT methods to build and develop a systems-centered group context within which they can explore intimacy phase roles that impact the capacity for member role in the group and the conference-as-a-whole.

Prerequisite: Completion of Authority Issue Group, active membership in SCTRI. If not currently in a training context, please contact Fran Carter for permission.

Category: Early Morning Training Track: Clinical|Organizational Level: Advanced Level

CE credits: 7.5 Format: Experiential Day(s): Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday , 8:45 - 10:15

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Apply the concept of a member role to practice shifting from one's personal experience to one's experience in a larger context
• Use the method of functional subgrouping to test the hypothesis that discrimination and integration of difference contributes to survival, development and transformation
• Discuss the similarities and differences in experience at different system levels: person, member, subgroup and group-as-a-whole
• Identify and reduce the restraining forces appropriate to the phase of development
• Articulate fresh ways of taking up membership by exploring and reducing stereotyped habits of membership
• Discover and discuss the function of the "advanced" group in the system-as-a-whole

Presentation Content

Systems-centered training has been widely accepted in group psychotherapy and organizational development contexts. Its methods link to conditions that correlate with successful outcomes in group work - functional subgrouping increases group cohesion and lowers scapegoating.

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. A 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 25 years, presented in more than 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. (1997). Systems-centered therapy for groups. New York, NY: Guilford Press. Re-printed in paperback (2004). London, UK: Karnac Books.

Agazarian, Y.M., & Gantt, S.P. (2000). Autobiography of a theory: Developing a theory of living human systems and its systems-centered practice. London, UK: Jessica Kingsley.

Agazarian, Y.M., Gantt, S.P., & Carter, F. (Eds.) (2021). Systems-centered training: An illustrated guide for applying a theory of living human systems. London, UK: Routledge.

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. (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

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.

Gantt, S.P., & Agazarian, Y.M. (2013). Developing the group mind through functional subgrouping: Linking systems-centered training (SCT) and interpersonal neurobiology. In S.P Gantt & B. Badenoch (Eds.) The interpersonal neurobiology of group psychotherapy and group process. London, UK: Karnac Books.

O’Neill, R.M., & Constantino, M.J. (2008). Systems-centered training groups’ process and outcome: A comparison with AGPA institute groups. International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, 58(1), 77-102. doi: 10.1521/ijgp.2008.58.1.77

Presenters

Frances Carter, MSS, LSW. Frances Carter, MSS, LSW, 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 Systems-Centered Training and Research Institute, a current Board Member and System Mentor. 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.

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102-01-C | Basics in SCT: Functional Subgrouping (Mon)

Trainer(s): Dayne Narretta , LCSW, BCD, CGP, FAGPA ; Deborah Woolf, MSS, LCSW, PHR

This group introduces participants to the basic elements of SCT theory, skills and practice.

Functional subgrouping is the core method used in SCT to implement the theory statement that all living systems survive, develop and transform by discriminating differences in the apparently similar and similarities in the apparently different. This group will introduce and practice the behaviors that support functional subgrouping.

Category: Drop-in Group Track: Theory and Basics Level: Open to All Levels|Foundation Level

CE credits: 1.5 Format: Didactic|Experiential Day(s): Monday , 10:35 - 12:35

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Describe how functional subgrouping helps systems to integrate, rather than split off differences
• Apply two behaviors that support functional subgrouping
• Describe how functional subgrouping helps to activate one's observing system

Presentation Content

The systems-centered approach to group and organizational work has been in the field for over 25 years, presented in more than 30 articles in peer-reviewed professional journals. Functional subgrouping has been shown to increase group cohesion and decrease scapegoating. Developing a functional subgroup requires a set of verbal behaviors/skills which, once learned, facilitate exploration and conflict resolution in any context. Joining with similarities includes identifying authentic resonance within oneself, matching or slightly increasing the intensity of affect, adding new bits to build the subgroup without bringing in too big a difference.

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., & Carter, F.B. (2021). Systems-centered training: An illustrated guide for applying a theory of living human systems. London, UK: Routledge.

Gantt, S.P., & Adams, J.M. (2010). Systems-centered training for therapists: Beyond stereotyping to integrating diversities into the change process. Women & Therapy, 33(1), 101-120. doi: 10.1080/02703140903404812

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., & Agazarian, Y.M. (2017). Systems-centered group therapy. International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, 67(sup1), S60-S70. doi: 10.1080/00207284.2016.1218768

Gantt, S.P., (2018). Developing groups that change our minds and transform our brains: Systems-centered’s functional subgrouping, its impact on our neurobiology, and its role in each phase of group development. Psychoanalytic Inquiry: Today’s Bridge Between Psychoanalysis and the Group World [Special Issue], 38(4), 270-284. doi: 10.1080/07351690.2018.1444851

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.

Presenters

Dayne Narretta, LCSW, BCD, CGP, FAGPA. Dayne Narretta, LCSW, BCD, CGP, FAGPA, is in Private Practice in Baton Rouge, LA. She has been facilitating groups since 1992. Most of her group training is through Systems-Centered Training Research Institute, American Group Psychotherapy Association, its affiliates and learning from the groups she leads. She does workshops and experiential groups for SCTRI, AGPA and its affiliates, universities, treatment centers and other organizations. She was introduced to Systems-Centered group work in 2004 and continues her training in the Systems-Centered Training and Research Institute. Dayne is currently a Co-Director for the Systems-Centered Training annual conference. She has served on the Board for American Group Psychotherapy Association, as an AGPA conference co-chair and on the Affiliate Society Assembly. In addition, she is a past president for Louisiana Group Psychotherapy Society and has served in other leadership roles.

Deborah Woolf, MSS, LCSW, PHR. Deborah Woolf, LCSW, PHR, has been training in Systems-Centered Theory (SCT) since 1999 and been a member of Systems-Centered Training and Research Institute since 2001. She is a clinician working in an outpatient setting with individuals and groups. She has worked in Human Resources and in Organizational Development and applies SCT to that work as well. Psychoanalytic Theory as well as other theories have also influenced her. She has trained in the use of the System for Analyzing Verbal Interactions (SAVI) since 20o1 and has presented workshops and trainings on Diversity, Mentoring and SCT.

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102-02-C | Basics in SCT: Introduction to a Theory of Living Human Systems and Its Basis for Systems-Centered Practice (Mon)

Trainer(s): Frances Carter , MSS, LSW

This session introduces participants to the basic elements of SCT theory, skills and practice.

Introduction to the fundamentals of a Theory of Living Human Systems, including basic neurobiology and links to systems-centered methods.

Category: Drop-in Group Track: Theory and Basics Level: Open to All Levels|Foundation Level

CE credits: 1.5 Format: Didactic|Experiential Day(s): Monday , 10:35 - 12:05

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Describe the fundamental concepts of a Theory of Living Human Systems (TLHS)
• Define how SCT methods relate to a Theory of Living Human Systems
• Summarize basic neurobiological concepts that link to the theory

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. A 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.

There is also an increasing body of research and writing that is integrating, neurobiology and human development to the theory and practice of working with groups.

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. (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. (2017). The nuts and bolts of systems-centered practice. Systems-Centered News, 26(1), 5-9.

Agazarian, Y.M., Gantt, S.P., & Carter, F. (Eds.) (2021). Systems-centered training: An illustrated guide for applying a theory of living human systems. London, UK: Routledge.

Gantt, S.P., & Badenoch, B. (Eds.) (2013). The interpersonal neurobiology of group psychotherapy and group processes. London, UK: Karnac Books.

Presenters

Frances Carter, MSS, LSW. Frances Carter, MSS, LSW, 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 Systems-Centered Training and Research Institute, a current Board Member and System Mentor. 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.

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102-03-C | Basics in SCT: Explain/Explore - The Fork-in-the-Road (Tue)

Trainer(s): Jeff Eiberson , Ph.D.

This group introduces participants to the basic elements of SCT theory, skills and practice.

Developing awareness of the fork-in-the-road between explaining and exploring is a discrimination that opens us to the possibility of change. Explaining keeps us focused on what we already know, and exploring moves us into the unknown where something new can emerge. Using the fork-in-the-road we will explore experience at the edge of the unknown as well as the information contained within our tendency to explain.

Category: Drop-in Group Track: Theory and Basics Level: Open to All Levels|Foundation Level

CE credits: 1.5 Format: Didactic|Experiential Day(s): Tuesday , 10:35 - 12:05

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Describe the fork-in-the-road as a method to vector energy
• Apply explaining versus exploring as a fork-in-the-road
• Practice using the fork-in-the road method

Presentation Content

Through didactic and experiential learning, this workshop will provide initial training to participants in understanding and using the systems-centered method of vectoring (specifically the fork-in-the-road intervention). The systems-centered approach has been in the field of group psychotherapy for over 25 years. More than 30 articles in peer-reviewed journals and multiple books in the fields of psychotherapy and organizational development have been published. The systems-centered approach has been studied and linked to successful strategies for increasing the effectiveness of leadership interventions in individual and group psychotherapy and in organizational contexts.

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., Gantt, S.P., & Carter, F.B. (2021). Systems-centered training: An illustrated guide for applying a theory of living human systems. London, UK: Routledge.

Gantt, S.P. (2015). Systems-centered group therapy. In E.S. Neukrug (Ed.), Encyclopedia of theory in counseling and psychotherapy. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage.

Gantt, S.P. (2018). Developing groups that change our minds and transform our brains: Systems-centered's functional subgrouping, its impact on our neurobiology, and its role in each phase of group development. Psychoanalytic Inquiry: Today's Bridge Between Psychoanalysis and the Group World [Special Issue], 38(4), 270-284. doi: 10.1080/07351690.2018.1444851

Presenters

Jeff Eiberson, Ph.D.. Jeff Eiberson, Ph.D., is a licensed psychologist and licensed Systems-Centered practitioner. He has worked in several roles within SCT since 1994 and is in private practice in Philadelphia.

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102-04-C | Basics in SCT: Seeing Systems (Tue)

Trainer(s): Claudia Byram , Ph.D., CGP ; Neal Spivack, Ph.D., CGP, FAGPA

This group introduces participants to the basic elements of SCT theory, skills and practice.

Learning to see systems and not just people is the heart of applying systems thinking. Participants will explore how to apply the constructs of a theory of living human systems in looking at human systems as small as a person and as big as the world.

Category: Drop-in Group Track: Theory and Basics Level: Open to All Levels|Foundation Level

CE credits: 1.5 Format: Didactic|Experiential|Sharing of Experience Day(s): Tuesday , 10:35 - 12:05

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• State the connection between theory (TLHS) and practice (SCT)
• Practice thinking systems and not just people
• Describe and diagram the essential system variables identified in a theory of living human systems

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. A 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. (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. (2018). The nuts and bolts of systems-centered practice. Systems-Centered News, 26(1), 5-9.

Agazarian, Y.M., Gantt, S.P., & Carter, F.B. (2021). Systems-centered training: An illustrated guide for applying a theory of living human systems. London, UK: Routledge.

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.

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

Presenters

Claudia Byram, Ph.D., CGP. Claudia Byram, Ph.D., CGP, has worked since 1980 as a clinician and trainer, developing with the emergence of systems-centered theory and practice in Philadelphia. Currently she is a licensed Systems-Centered Practitioner with a clinical practice in Philadelphia. She leads Systems-Centered training events, both in Philadelphia and as a lead trainer in the annual SCTRI Conferences. She is editor of the SCT Newsletter, on the Board of Directors of SCTRI. She, along with Frances Carter, leads trainings in the SAVI® (System for Analyzing Verbal Interaction) model of verbal communication. SAVI is one of the tools that helps systems-centered practitioners monitor both their own system inputs and the state of the working system.

Neal Spivack, Ph.D., CGP, FAGPA. Neal Spivack, Ph.D., CGP, FAGPA is a clinical psychologist for the Veterans Administration (VA) at the Manhattan Campus of the New York Harbor Healthcare System. He is also in private practice. He recently completed the SCT Authority Issue Group and is a Certified Group Psychotherapist (CGP) and a Fellow of the American Group Psychotherapy Association (FAGPA). He is a Past President of Eastern Group Psychotherapy Society (EGPS) and Program Co-chair of the EGPS Annual Conference.

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102-05-C | Basics in SCT: Undoing Anxiety (Wed)

Trainer(s): Patricia Aerts , BA ; Ros Wood, BSc(Hons), MBChB, MRCPsych

This group introduces participants to the basic elements of SCT theory, skills and practice.

SCT identifies three sources of anxiety. These will be introduced and normalized at the same time as recognizing that anxiety is often a barrier between the individual and authentic experience. The group will enable people to consider the discrimination between anxiety and sitting at the edge of the unknown.

Category: Drop-in Group Track: Theory and Basics Level: Open to All Levels|Foundation Level

CE credits: 1.5 Format: Didactic|Demonstration|Sharing of Experience Day(s): Wednesday , 10:35 - 12:05

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• List the three sources of anxiety identified in SCT
• Describe the discrimination between mindreads and negative predictions
• Describe the discrimination between anxiety that defends against experience and anxiety at the edge of the unknown

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. A 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.

The systems-centered approach to group and organizational work has been in the field for over 25 years, presented in more than 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., Gantt, S.P., & Carter, F. (Eds.) (2021). Systems-centered training: An illustrated guide for applying a theory of living human systems. London, UK: Routledge.

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

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

Wheelan, S.A. (2016). Creating effective teams: A guide for members and leaders. Thousand Oaks, CA: SAGE.

Presenters

Patricia Aerts, BA. Patricia Aerts, OD consultant and coach, has over 25 years of experience in the field of team, leadership and individual development. She founded TopTeamWerk, an OD company, together with Janneke Maas, working with the systems-centered view and tools. They developed a (blended) 6-day training program "Building TopTeams" and are partner for directors, teams and professionals in their unique development. Patricia provided international training in leadership programs and presented at the European Conference for Coaching. She currently develops/provides leadership development programs for Educational Directors/Board members, coaches Executives and professionals and consults with (not for) & profit organizations. Earlier, Patricia gained experience in management positions and consultancy firms. She works with empathy, guts and preferably with a sense of humor. Besides her OD background, she graduated a 6 year Buddhist/Psychological training. She is a member of Licensing Group VIII.

Ros Wood, BSc(Hons), MBChB, MRCPsych. Dr. Ros Wood is a Consultant Psychiatrist who worked in the UK for the National Health Service for 20 years. She has led multi-disciplinary community mental health teams in South Yorkshire and North Lincolnshire. She has worked with adults who suffer from mental illnesses and disorders including anxiety disorders, OCD, mood disorders, trauma and stress related disorders, eating disorders, personality disorders, neurodevelopmental disorders and comorbid addictions. She has taught psychiatrists, primary care physicians, therapists, nurses, social workers, junior doctors and medical students on a wide variety of clinical topics, including didactic teaching and experiential workshops. She has now retired from the NHS and works in private practice, where she has particular interests in the assessment and treatment of ADHD in adults, and the impact of complex childhood trauma in adulthood. She is a member of Licensing Group VIII.

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102-06-C | Basics in SCT: SCT Consultation (Wed)

Trainer(s): Lotte Paans , MSc ; Janneke Maas, MSc

This group introduces participants to the basic elements of SCT theory, skills and practice.

This drop-In offers the opportunity to learn more about the SCT method for consultation called "My problem is I..." and its theoretical underpinnings. Participants will have the opportunity to practice this model and explore their experiences.

Category: Drop-in Group Track: Theory and Basics Level: Open to All Levels|Foundation Level

CE credits: 1.5 Format: Didactic|Experiential|Sharing of Experience Day(s): Wednesday , 10:35 - 12:05

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Describe the steps of the consultation method "My problem is I..."
• Practice the consultation method "My problem is I..."
• Describe the theoretical underpinnings of this consultation method

Presentation Content

Agazarian’s (1997) Theory of Living Human Systems, with its Systems-Centered approach, represents a comprehensive systems theory that can be applied to groups, individuals and couples. The theory has defined theoretical constructs and operational definitions that implement and test the theoretical hypotheses in its practice. In this group we will be experimenting with an SCT consultation method used in working with individuals.

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.

Davis, R. (2014). Working across organisational boundaries: Shifting from complaining and blaming to problem-solving. e-O&P Journal of the Association for Management Education and Development, 21(3), 22-37.

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

Gantt, S.P., & Agazarian, Y.M. (2007). Phases of system development in organizational work groups: The systems-centered approach for intervening in context. Organisational & Social Dynamics, 7(2), 253-291.

O’Neill, R.M., Murphy, V., Mogle, J., MacKenzie, M.J., MacGregor, K.L., Pearson, M., & Parekh, M. (2013). Are systems-centered teams more collaborative, productive and creative? Journal of Team Performance Management, 19(3/4), 201-221. doi: 10.1108/TPM-04-2012-0015

Sundlin, A.L., & Sundlin, P. (2014). Taking up your role: How to shift between life and work without losing yourself. Cambridge, MA: Catalyst Communication Press.

Presenters

Lotte Paans, MSc. Lotte Paans, MSc, runs a private practice for therapy and coaching in the Netherlands. She counsels individuals, couples and teams, provides training and supervision for (team)coaches and consultants and manages change in organizations using SCT. She leads ongoing SCT groups in the Netherlands, is Chair of the Dutch SCT Board, member of the Board of SCTRI in the USA and is a licensed SCT Practitioner.

Janneke Maas, MSc. Janneke Maas, MSc, works as a teamcoach and leadership development trainer in the Netherlands. She works with teams, individuals, and organizations. The core of her work is freeing up energy for work and relations that support work and fun. She also educates people that want to become a teamcoach and learn the trade. Janneke is part of the SCT Conference system as Co-Director and leader of the Program Planning Group.

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102-07-C | Basics in SCT: Distraction Exercise (Thu)

Trainer(s): Ros Wood , BSc(Hons), MBChB, MRCPsych

This group introduces participants to the basic elements of SCT theory, skills and practice.

This group offers the opportunity to learn more about the theory behind the SCT distraction exercise. Participants will have the opportunity to practice undoing distractions and explore their experiences using the distraction protocol.

Category: Drop-in Group Track: Theory and Basics Level: Open to All Levels|Foundation Level

CE credits: 1.5 Format: Didactic|Experiential Day(s): Thursday , 10:35 - 12:05

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Describe the impact of distraction on a system
• Describe the "undoing distractions" protocol
• Describe how undoing distractions contributes to system development

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. A 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.

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., Gantt, S.P., & Carter, F. (Eds.) (2021). Systems-centered training: An illustrated guide for applying a theory of living human systems. London, UK: Routledge.

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

Gantt, S.P., & Agazarian, Y.M. (2011). The group mind, systems-centred functional subgrouping, and interpersonal neurobiology. In E. Hopper & H. Weinberg (Eds.), The social unconscious in persons, groups, and societies: Volume 1: Mainly theory (pp. 99-123). London, UK: Karnac Books.

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

Presenters

Ros Wood, BSc(Hons), MBChB, MRCPsych. Dr. Ros Wood is a Consultant Psychiatrist who worked in the UK for the National Health Service for 20 years before moving into private practice. She has previously led multi-disciplinary community mental health teams in South Yorkshire and North Lincolnshire. She has worked with adults who suffer from mental illnesses and disorders including anxiety disorders, OCD, mood disorders, trauma and stress related disorders, eating disorders, personality disorders, comorbid addiction, and neurodevelopmental disorders such as ADHD and Autistic Spectrum Conditions. She has a particular interest in the impact of complex childhood trauma in adulthood. She has taught psychiatrists, primary care physicians, therapists, nurses, social workers, junior doctors and medical students on a wide variety of clinical topics, including didactic teaching and experiential workshops. She has now retired from the NHS and works solely in her developing private practice.

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102-08-C | Basics of SAVI - What It Is and What It Can Do (Thu)

Trainer(s): Frances B. Carter , MSS, LSW ; Verena Murphy, Ph.D., LISW

This group introduces participants to the basic elements of SCT theory, skills and practice.

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. You will be introduced to the SAVI GRID and learn to use communication patterns to “see” the system not just the people and recognize repetitive, unproductive communication loops and explore alternative system patterns that free energy for problem-solving and work.

Category: Drop-in Group Track: SAVI|Theory and Basics Level: Open to All Levels|Foundation Level

CE credits: 1.5 Format: Didactic|Sharing of Experience Day(s): Thursday , 10:35 - 12:05

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Define "noise" in verbal communication systems
• Name three SAVI behavior sequences (Alerts) that signal emerging noise in the communication system
• Describe how communication is a system output, discriminating "noisy" and problem-solving patterns

Presentation Content

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.

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. (2000). Autobiography of a theory: Developing a theory of living human systems and its systems-centered practice. London, UK: Jessica Kingsley.

Agazarian, Y.M., Gantt, S.P., & Carter, F. (Eds.) (2021). Systems-centered training: An illustrated guide for applying a theory of living human systems. London, UK: Routledge.

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. doi: 10.1016/j.hrmr.2011.11.007

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. https://hbr.org/2018/05/the-surprising-power-of-questions

O’Neill, R.M., Gantt, S.P., Burlingame, G.M., Mogle, J., Johnson, J., & Silver, R. (2013). Developing the systems-centered functional subgrouping questionnaire-2. Group Dynamics: Theory, Research, and Practice, 17(4), 252-269. doi: 10.1037/a0034925

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

Frances B. Carter, MSS, LSW. Frances Carter, MSS, 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, a current Board Member and System Mentor. 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.

Verena Murphy, Ph.D., LISW. Verena Murphy, Ph.D., LISW, began training with Yvonne Agazarian in 1993, and the co-originator of SAVI, Anita Simon, in 1997. She has used SCT theory and practice, as well as SAVI, in her personal development, as a partner, mother and grandmother, as a clinical Social Worker in inpatient and outpatient settings, as former assistant professor in Management and Information Systems, and as organizational consultant and trainer in Europe. She resides in Oregon, where she is in private practice online.

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102-09-C | Basics in SCT: Force Field Development and Application (Fri)

Trainer(s): Mindy Lemoine , MS ; Kitty Garlid, M.Div., ACPE

This group introduces participants to the basic elements of SCT theory, skills and practice.

The force field, as developed by Kurt Lewin, is the SCT map for collecting information about the forces that drive systems towards their goals (driving forces) and the forces that get in the way (restraining forces). Building a force field related to a particular goal helps identify which restraining forces to reduce so the driving forces can be released. The group will use force fields to clarify goals, identify driving and restraining forces, identify solutions to problems, and make decisions in various contexts.

Category: Drop-in Group Track: Theory and Basics Level: Open to All Levels|Foundation Level

CE credits: 1.5 Format: Didactic|Demonstration|Sharing of Experience Day(s): Friday , 10:35 - 12:05

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Demonstrate a basic theoretical understanding of force fields through group discussion
• Construct a force field by identifying a goal, and the driving and restraining forces to that goal
• Use the force field in problem-solving to move toward a goal

Presentation Content

Force fields were developed by Kurt Lewin in 1947, and have been used in many social applications since then. They are an important tool used in SCT to aid in collecting data about the driving and restraining forces in human systems. Force fields have found applications in many other fields where they are used in a similar way. Several articles listed below describe and demonstrate the value and application of force fields to SCT and other fields.

Supporting References

Agazarian, Y.M., Gantt, S.P., & Carter, F. (Eds.) (2021). Systems-centered training: An illustrated guide for applying a theory of living human systems. London, UK: Routledge.

Davis, R. (2014). Working across organisational boundaries: Shifting from complaining and blaming to problem-solving. e-O&P Journal of the Association for Management Education and Development, 21(3), 22-37.

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

Lewin, K. (1951). Field theory in social science. New York, NY: Harper & Row.

Presenters

Mindy Lemoine , MS . Mindy Lemoine, MS, managed watershed planning projects and oversaw state-level hazardous waste management at the US Environmental Protection Agency for 30 years, and retired May 2021. She now uses her SCT skills in volunteer positions in local government and environmental organizations, particularly focused on planting trees. She started SCT training in 1998, and has completed the Authority Issue Group.

Kitty Garlid, M.Div., ACPE. Kitty (Catherine) Garlid served in the role of Director of Spiritual Care and Education, first at Greenwich Hospital in Greenwich, CT and then at Maine Medical Center in Portland, Maine over the course of 37 years, retiring in 2018. She continues to contract as a spiritual care educator, currently at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, MA. In SCTRI she is a Theory, Research, and Application editor for the Systems-Centered News.

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102-10-C | Basics in SCT: Phases of System Development (Fri)

Trainer(s): Susan P. Gantt , Ph.D., CGP, ABPP, DFAGPA, FAPA

This group introduces participants to the basic elements of SCT theory, skills and practice.

SCT work is always in the context of the phases of system development. Each phase of development is operationally defined as a force field of driving and restraining forces. This enables identifying phase-specific interventions that weaken the restraining forces relevant to the phase. Aligning change strategies that link to the phase of development enables releasing the driving forces of the phase.

Category: Drop-in Group Track: Theory and Basics Level: Open to All Levels|Foundation Level

CE credits: 1.5 Format: Didactic|Experiential Day(s): Friday , 10:35 - 12:05

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Explain the phases of system development defined by SCT
• Describe at least one developmental challenge inherent in each phase
• Describe and apply the hierarchy of defense modification weakening restraining forces relevant to the phases of system development

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. A 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. doi: 10.1177/104649649903000105

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. (2018). The nuts and bolts of systems-centered practice. Systems-Centered News, 26(1), 5-9.

Agazarian, Y.M., Gantt, S.P., & Carter, F. (Eds.) (2021). Systems-centered training: An illustrated guide for applying a theory of living human systems. London, UK: Routledge.

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.

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

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 and coordinated group psychotherapy training in psychiatry at Emory University for 29 years. She chairs the Systems-Centered Training (SCT) and Research Institute; teaches SCT in the USA, Europe and China; and leads training groups in Atlanta, San Francisco, and The Netherlands. She has co-authored four books with Yvonne Agazarian, co-edited The Interpersonal Neurobiology of Group Psychotherapy and Group Process with Bonnie Badenoch, and received the 2011 Alonso Award for Excellence in Psychodynamic Group Psychotherapy. Her latest book is Systems-Centered Training: An Illustrated Guide for Applying a Theory of Living Human Systems (Agazarian, Gantt & Carter, 2021).

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303-C | Force Field Training: Integrating Force Field Development with Theory and Practice

Trainer(s): Peter Kunneman , Licensed SCT Practitioner ; Dayna Burnett, Ph.D.

SCT uses force field analysis to track driving and restraining forces to system development and to identify the explicit and implicit goals at any system level. In this 5-day intermediate/advanced training, we will use data from experiential work to build force fields. We will focus on gathering data (vs. opinions) and weakening restraining forces to sustainable change.

Prerequisite: Completion of Intermediate Skills Training (IST).

Note: Participation in intermediate level training requires actively receiving consultation from an SCT Licensed Practitioner.

Category: Late Morning Training Track: Clinical|Organizational|General Interest Level: Intermediate Level|Advanced Level

CE credits: 7.5 Format: Didactic|Demonstration|Experiential|Sharing of Experience Day(s): Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday , 10:35 - 12:05

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Describe the theory behind SCT's use of Lewin's force field
• Describe the difference between an opinion-based and a description-based force field
• Use force fields to identify the implicit goals of a system
• Use the force field to identify the phase of system development
• Discriminate inter-person system output from inner-person output
• Describe one’s own leading edge in creating and using a force field

Presentation Content

The systems-centered approach developed by Yvonne Agazarian is considered by APA a contribution to the knowledge of the boundaries between clinical and social psychology. Systems-centered training draws on a comprehensive systems theory, that is implemented by specific, theory-derived methods and techniques. The core method, functional subgrouping, is indicated by peer-reviewed research to improve group functioning.

Force fields were developed by Kurt Lewin in 1947. They are an important tool used in SCT to aid in collecting data about the driving and restraining forces in any human system.

Supporting References

Agazarian, Y.M. (2018). The nuts and bolts of systems-centered practice. Systems-Centered News, 26(1), 5-9.

Agazarian, Y.M., Gantt, S.P., & Carter, F. (Eds.) (2021). Systems-centered training: An illustrated guide for applying a theory of living human systems. London, UK: Routledge.

Davis, R. (2014). Working across organisational boundaries: Shifting from complaining and blaming to problem-solving. e-O&P Journal of the Association for Management Education and Development, 21(3), 22-37.

Kunneman, P., & Nordhauzen, P. (2022). Leve het team. Groepsdynamiek: van boosdoener naar bondgenoot. Amsterdam: Boomuitgevers.

Lewin, K. (1951). Field theory in social science. New York, NY: Harper & Row.

Shirey, M. (2013). Lewin’s theory of planned change as a strategic resource. The Journal of Nursing Administration, 43(2), 69–72.

Presenters

Peter Kunneman, Licensed SCT Practitioner. Peter Kunneman is an organization consultant and works with teams in organizations to improve team performance. He applies SCT methods and techniques, so teams learn to systematically weaken restraining forces in group dynamics that hinder team performance. He is first author of "Leve het team," a book about applying SCT in organizations.

Dayna Burnett, Ph.D.. Dayna Burnett, Ph.D., is a psychologist and Licensed SCT Practitioner. In addition she is a Certified SAVI trainer, a SAVI Master Coder, and a member of the SCT Conference system. She has over 20 years experience in SCT and SAVI. She obtained her doctorate in counseling psychology from the University of Texas at Austin. She has a clinical private practice in Austin, Texas working with individuals and couples. She conducts communication coaching and training with individuals and teams internationally.

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404-C | Intermediate Advanced Theory to Practice: Building a Systems-Centered Group

Trainer(s): Rowena Davis , MSc ; Lotte Paans, MSc

Building a Systems-Centered group: how do we do it in practice? We will use a Theory of Living Human Systems to guide our thinking as we practice building an SCT group in different contexts. Using the resources in the group, we will role play introducing SCT core methods and learn from what we discover. Our goal is to build a working climate where we free up experimental energy and have fun!

Prerequisite: Open to members at Intermediate and Advanced levels who have completed SCT Intermediate Skills Training.

Note: Participation in intermediate level training requires actively receiving consultation from an SCT Licensed Practitioner.

Category: Late Morning Training Track: Clinical|Organizational|Education|General Interest Level: Intermediate Level|Advanced Level

CE credits: 7.5 Format: Didactic|Demonstration|Experiential|Sharing of Experience Day(s): Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday , 10:35 - 12:05

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Describe how the goal and process of functional subgrouping is derived from a Theory of Living Human Systems
• Practice introducing functional subgrouping
• Use the Person-As-A-System map to state how the distraction exercise is designed to bring energy across system boundaries into the here-and-now reality
• Practice introducing the distraction exercise
• Apply the Time Travelling Map to identify how the explain/explore fork offers the choice between exploring the known or the unknown
• Practice offering the fork-in-the-road between explaining and exploring

Presentation Content

The Systems-Centered approach developed by Yvonne Agazarian is considered by APA a contribution to the knowledge of the boundaries between clinical and social psychology. Systems-centered training draws on a comprehensive systems theory, that is implemented by specific, theory-derived methods and techniques. The core method, functional subgrouping, is indicated by peer-reviewed research to improve group functioning

Supporting References

Agazarian, Y.M. (1997). Systems centered therapy for groups. New York, NY: Guilford. Re-printed in paperback (2004). London, UK: Karnac Books.

Agazarian, Y.M. (2018). The nuts and bolts of systems-centered practice. Systems-Centered News, 26(1), 5-9.

Agazarian, Y.M., Gantt, S.P., & Carter, F.B. (2021). Systems-centered training: An illustrated guide for applying a theory of living human systems. London, UK: Routledge.

Davis, R. (2020). How do we keep theory alive and use it in practice? Systems-Centered News, 28(1), 7-10.

Presenters

Rowena Davis, MSc. Rowena Davis, MSc, is an organizational consultant working with public, private and not-for-profit organizations in the UK and internationally. Her work combines coaching individuals and teams; strategic marketing and planning; mapping systems; and running SCT and SAVI trainings in the US and Europe. She is a Licensed Systems-Centered Practitioner, a certified SAVI trainer, a member of the Systems-Centered Training and Research Institute Board and a Director of SCT UK. She holds an MSc in Change Agent Skills & Strategies (Distinction) from the University of Surrey, a Dottore in Sociologia from the University of Trento, Italy, and a BSc (Econ) from the London School of Economics.

Lotte Paans, MSc. Lotte Paans, MSc, runs a private practice for therapy and coaching in the Netherlands. She counsels individuals, couples and teams, provides training and supervision for (team)coaches and consultants and manages change in organizations using SCT. She leads ongoing SCT groups in the Netherlands, is Chair of the Dutch SCT Board, member of the Board of SCTRI in the USA and is a licensed SCT Practitioner.

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301-IC | Intermediate Skills Training (8:30-12:05)

Trainer(s): Susan Beren , Ph.D. ; Madeline O'Carroll, MSc, RMN ; A. Meigs Ross, ACPE, LCSW-R

7-day group, meets on Institute weekend and continues Monday-Friday as full-morning training.

Intermediate skills training shifts focus from work with oneself to work with others. In this intensive 7-day training, participants are introduced to SCT protocols with an emphasis on the theoretical context for the intervention and the technical skills that make up each protocol. Participants then record their practice of each protocol and lead a small task group reviewing recorded sections in order to identify specific driving and restraining forces of their work.

By application to assess your readiness for this training (see link below). Send application to both Susan Beren and Madeline O'Carroll

APPLICATION DEADLINE: Saturday, February 4, 2023

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: Whole Morning Training Track: Clinical|Organizational|Theory and Basics|Education Level: Intermediate Level

CE credits: 27.5 Format: Didactic|Demonstration|Experiential Day(s): Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday , 8:30 - 12:05

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. A 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. (2017). The nuts and bolts of systems-centered practice. Systems-Centered News, 26(1), 5-9.

Agazarian, Y.M., Gantt, S.P., & Carter, F. (Eds.) (2021). Systems-centered training: An illustrated guide for applying a theory of living human systems. London, UK: Routledge.

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

Gantt, S.P., & Agazarian, Y.M. (2017). Systems centered group therapy. International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, 67(sup 1), S60-S70 doi: 10.1080/00207284.2016.1218768

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 23 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 Practitioner. She co-leads a Foundation-level SCT training group on Zoom.

Madeline O'Carroll, MSc, RMN. Madeline O'Carroll, MSc, RMN is a Senior Lecturer in Mental Health Nursing in London and a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy with thirty years of experience in mental health as an educator, clinician and mentor. Her group work experience includes therapy groups for people with psychosis, groups to support mental health students process the impact of their work, and SCT training groups. She has been a member of SCTRI since 2004 and has completed the Authority Issue Group.

A. Meigs Ross, ACPE, LCSW-R. A. Meigs Ross, ACPE, LCSW-R, is a licensed clinical social worker in private practice in New York providing psychotherapy for individuals, couples, and groups and providing consultation for individuals and groups and organizations. Meigs is also a certified clinical pastoral educator, national faculty member with the Association for Clinical Pastoral Education, currently supervising certified educator students at New York Presbyterian Hospital and Jewish Theological Seminary. She is a Licensed Systems-Centered Practitioner. She co-leads a Foundation-level SCT training group on Zoom.

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401-IC | Authority Issue Group (8:30-12:05)

Trainer(s): Susan P. Gantt , Ph.D., CGP, ABPP, DFAGPA, FAPA ; Ray Haddock, MBChB, M.MedSc, FRCPsych

7-day group, meets on Institute weekend and continues Monday-Friday as full-morning training.

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 a 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 the Intermediate tab on SCT Training Curriculum for details. Joining this group means committing to twice yearly meetings for the duration of the group.

By application (see link below). Send application to Kathy Lum in her role as administrator for Susan Gantt.

APPLICATION DEADLINE: December 10, 2022 by 12:00pm noon ET

Note: Participation in intermediate level training requires actively receiving consultation from an SCT Licensed Practitioner.

Category: Whole Morning Training Track: Clinical|Organizational|Education Level: Intermediate Level

CE credits: 27.5 Format: Experiential Day(s): Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday , 8:30 - 12:05

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 the 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. A 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. doi: 10.1177/104649649903000105

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. (2018). The nuts and bolts of systems-centered practice. Systems-Centered News, 26(1), 5-9.

Agazarian, Y.M., Gantt, S.P., & Carter, F. (Eds.) (2021). Systems-centered training: An illustrated guide for applying a theory of living human systems. London, UK: Routledge.

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.

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

Susan P. Gantt, Ph.D., CGP, ABPP, DFAGPA, FAPA. Susan P. Gantt, Ph.D., ABPP, CGP, DFAGPA, FAPA, is a psychologist in private practice and coordinated group psychotherapy training in psychiatry at Emory University for 29 years. She chairs the Systems-Centered Training (SCT) and Research Institute; teaches SCT in the USA, Europe and China; and leads training groups in Atlanta, San Francisco, and The Netherlands. She has co-authored four books with Yvonne Agazarian, co-edited The Interpersonal Neurobiology of Group Psychotherapy and Group Process with Bonnie Badenoch, and received the 2011 Alonso Award for Excellence in Psychodynamic Group Psychotherapy. Her latest book is Systems-Centered Training: An Illustrated Guide for Applying a Theory of Living Human Systems (Agazarian, Gantt & Carter, 2021).

Ray Haddock, MBChB, M.MedSc, FRCPsych. Ray Haddock, MBChB, M.MedSc, FRCPsych, is a licensed Systems-Centered practitioner, a Director of SCTUK, a member of the Systems-Centered Training and Research Institute Board of Directors and of the Board of the International Association of Group Psychotherapy and of the Institute of Group Analysis. He spent many years as a medical psychotherapist in the NHS as a therapist and training psychiatrists in therapeutic skills. As a Licensed Systems-Centered Practitioner and trainer he undertakes training, consultation, personal development, mentoring and therapy in the UK and internationally.

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406-C | Container Training (8:45-12:05)

Trainer(s): Sven-Erik Viskari , BA ; Perri Franskoviak, Ph.D.

Participants will work in the Foundation group, exploring containing and using their own experience to support the work of the group. This is an important building block toward SCT leadership in any system. This experiential training is open by application for intermediate/advanced members. This training starts with containers working in the Foundation group. After the break, we will review and process our work. The process work provides a context to integrate one’s own learnings and development.

By application (see link below). Send application to both Sven-Erik Viskari and Perri Franskoviak

APPLICATION DEADLINE: February 15, 2023

Note: Participation in intermediate level training requires actively receiving consultation from an SCT Licensed Practitioner.

Category: Whole Morning Training Track: Clinical|Organizational Level: Intermediate Level|Advanced Level

CE credits: 15.0 Format: Didactic|Experiential|Sharing of Experience Day(s): Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday , 8:45 - 12:05

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Use knowledge of phase of development as evidenced by container role contributions that serve to weaken phase-relevant restraining forces
• Identify and then plan to reduce person-system outputs thus enabling greater container role functionality
• Demonstrate the ability to contain and explore authority issues aroused in self and group as evidenced by consistently making inputs (verbal and non-verbal) that support the current leadership vector(s)
• Demonstrate ability to subgroup internally with all voices of the subgroup/group-as-a-whole as evidenced by functional joins
• Utilize ability to lighten or deepen exploration appropriately in context
• Utilize own experience as member of training group, contribute with container role behavior and inputs that support the development of the group

Presentation Content

The systems-centered approach to group and organizational work has been in the field for over 25 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. This training focuses on the Container role to support functional subgrouping, group development and the group leader.

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. (2012). Attunement, empathy, and the triune brain. Systems-Centered News, 24(1), 5-8.

Agazarian, Y.M., & Gantt, S.P. (2005). The systems perspective. In S. Wheelan (Ed.), Handbook of group research and practice (pp. 187-200). Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage.

Agazarian, Y.M., Gantt, S.P., & Carter, F. (Eds.) (2021). Systems-centered training: An illustrated guide for applying a theory of living human systems. London, UK: Routledge.

Gantt, S.P. (2018). Developing groups that change our brains: Systems-centered's functional subgrouping, and its role in each phase of group development. Psychoanalytic Inquiry, 38(4), 270-284. https://10.1080/07351690.2018.1444851

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.

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

Gantt, S.P., & Badenoch, B. (Eds.) (2013). The Interpersonal neurobiology of group psychotherapy and group process. London, UK: Karnac Books.

Sundlin, A.L,. & Sundlin, P. (2014). Taking up your role: How to shift life and work without losing yourself. Cambridge, MA: Catalyst Communications Press.

Presenters

Sven-Erik Viskari, BA. Sven-Erik Viskari, BA, is a licensed psychologist and psychotherapist. As a senior Organizational Consultant, he mainly works with team building, group development and coaching of leaders and employees. As a clinician, he works with supervision in the Swedish public health care system. He is also a Licensed Systems-Centered Practitioner and has been a member of the Board of the Systems-Centered Training and Research Institute 2006-2017.

Perri Franskoviak, Ph.D.. Perri Franskoviak, Ph.D, has been working in community settings for over 34 years, developing and delivering low-threshold services to individuals living with mental illness, unstable housing, and drug and alcohol illnesses. Her areas of interest include identifying and working with countertransference, providing supervision for interns and clinicians using systems-centered techniques, and the integration of harm reduction principles and relational psychotherapy. In her private practice she also integrates somatic therapy when working with individuals living with experiences of traumatic overwhelm as well as drug and alcohol concerns.

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502-IC | Advanced Training for Trainers and Leaders: Tracking Group Development (8:30-12:05)

Trainer(s): Dorothy Gibbons , MSS, LCSW ; Juliet Koprowska, MSW

7-day group, meets on Institute weekend and continues Monday-Friday as full-morning training.

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 system development and, through experience, to collect data about system isomorphy.

Prerequisite: Completion of the Authority Issue Group.

This is a new group that will continue to meet through the duration of the Authority Issue Group.

Category: Whole Morning Training Track: Clinical|Organizational Level: Advanced Level

CE credits: 27.5 Format: Didactic|Demonstration|Experiential|Sharing of Experience Day(s): Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday , 8:30 - 12:05

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Analyze the leader's SCT interventions as they relate to the system's phase of development
• Describe a predictable hierarchy of defense modification in the service of developing an SCT work phase group
• Relate observations to a Theory of Living Human Systems and systems-centered practice
• Develop a force field to identify the driving and restraining forces towards building a systems-centered group
• Assess effectiveness of functional subgrouping in an advanced training group (Authority Issue Group)
• Discuss examples of isomorphy between group being observed and observing group

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) & Licensing Group. 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 & Licensing 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

Agazarian, Y.M., Gantt, S.P., & Carter, F. (Eds.) (2021). Systems-centered training: An illustrated guide for applying a theory of living human systems. London, UK: Routledge.

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.

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., & Agazarian, Y.M. (2017). Systems-centered group therapy. International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, 67(sup1), S60-S70. doi: 10.1080/00207284.2016.1218768

Gantt, S.P., & Badenoch, B. (Eds.) (2013). The interpersonal neurobiology of group psychotherapy and group process. London, UK: Karnac Books.

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 is a Licensed Systems-Centered Practitioner. She is Honorary Fellow at the University of York where for many years she taught qualifying and registered social workers. She leads and co-leads SCT workshops and training in the UK, Italy and the US. She researches communication in social work practice and is author of "Communication and Interpersonal Skills in Social Work" (5th edition). London: Sage Learning Matters, a book widely used on social work programmes in the UK. She is co-editor with Juhila, K., Dall, T. & Hall, C. (2021), of "Interprofessional Collaboration and Service User Participation: Analysing meetings in social welfare." Bristol: Policy Press, which includes her chapter on ‘Relational agency and epistemic justice in Initial Child Protection Conferences’. She organises the annual SCT event held in York, England.

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01 | Roles and Role Locks: Racism and the Effect that Exploring Has on a System

Trainer(s): Verena Murphy, Ph.D., LISW and Debbie Woolf, MSS, LCSW, PHR

We are often unaware that we send role signals from our past personalized roles; for example, one-up defiant, one-down compliant role locks. When we get curious about our inner selves and our relationships, we can undo our role locks, including our prejudices and racism. Through functional subgrouping, we can explore role inductions in the present, and discover how we are unknowingly reacting to past personalized roles.

Category: Conference Afternoon Workshop Track: General Interest Level: Open to All Levels

CE credits: 2.0 Format: Didactic|Experiential|Sharing of Experience Day(s): Monday , 2:00 - 4:00

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Describe the function of role locks in living human systems
• Apply the systems-centered method of functional subgrouping to explore inner-person roles
• List one driving and one restraining force of going one-up or one-down towards the goal of survival

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. A theory of living human systems has defined theoretical constructs and operational definitions that implement and test the 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.

The systems-centered approach to group and organizational work has been in the field for over 25 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. A Theory of Living Human Systems states that living human systems survive, develop and transform from simple to complex by discriminating and integrating differences. Frequently, differences are attacked, scapegoated, or avoided by us as humans. The awareness of one’s impulse to scapegoat, attack or avoid differences, e.g., by thinking “us vs. them,” thus creating a role lock, gives us data which can lead to insight and alternative choices when we respond to differences. Ultimately the ability to undo role locks and integrate the differences leads to development, learning and transformation.

Supporting References

Agazarian, Y.M., Gantt, S.P., & Carter, F. (Eds.) (2021). Systems-centered training: An illustrated guide for applying a theory of living human systems. London, UK: Routledge.

Amadio, D.M. (2014). The neuroscience of prejudice and stereotyping. Nature/Neuroscience, 15, 670-682. doi:10.1038nrn3800

Banaji, M.R., & Greenwald. (2016). Blindspot: Hidden biases of good people. New York, NY: Bantam Books.

Eberhardt, J.L. (2019). Biased.. New York, NY: Viking.

Fiske, S.T. (2015). Intergroup biases: A focus on stereotype content. Current Opinion in Behavioral Sciences, 3, 45-50. doi:10.1016/j.cobeha.2015.01.010

Ponsi, G., Panasiti, M.S., Rizza, G., & Aglioti, S.M. (2017). Thermal facial reactivity patterns predict social categorization bias triggered by unconscious and conscious emotional stimuli. Proceedings of the Royal Society B. 284: 20170908 https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/full/10.1098/rspb.2017.0908

Presenters

Verena Murphy, Ph.D., LISW. Verena Murphy, Ph.D., LISW, began training in 1993 with Yvonne Agazarian in Philadelphia, and has used SCT theory and practice in her personal development, as a partner, mother and grandmother, as a clinical Social Worker in inpatient and outpatient settings, as assistant professor in Management and Information Systems, and as trainer in Europe. She resides in Oregon, where she has a private, systems-oriented online practice.

Debbie Woolf, MSS, LCSW, PHR. Deborah Woolf, MS, MSS, LCSW, PHR, has been training in Systems-Centered Theory (SCT) since 1999 and been a member of Systems-Centered Training and Research Institute since 2001. She is a clinician working in an outpatient setting with individuals and groups. She has worked in Human Resources and in Organizational Development and applies SCT to that work as well. Psychoanalytic theory as well as other theories have also influenced her. She has trained in the use of the System for Analyzing Verbal Interactions (SAVI) since 2001 and has presented workshops and trainings on Diversity, Mentoring and SCT.

Dayne Narretta , LCSW, BCD, CGP, FAGPA. Dayne Narretta, LCSW, BCD, CGP, FAGPA, is in Private Practice in Baton Rouge, LA. She has been facilitating groups since 1992. Most of her group training is through Systems-Centered Training Research Institute, American Group Psychotherapy Association, its affiliates and learning from the groups she leads. She does workshops and experiential groups for SCTRI, AGPA and its affiliates, universities, treatment centers and other organizations. She was introduced to Systems-Centered group work in 2004 and continues her training in the Systems-Centered Training and Research Institute. Dayne is currently a co-director for the Systems-Centered Training annual conference. She has served on the Board for American Group Psychotherapy Association, as an AGPA conference co-chair and on the Affiliate Society Assembly. In addition, she is a past president for Louisiana Group Psychotherapy Society and has served in other leadership roles.

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02 |

The Flow of Fight Energy

Trainer(s): Peter Kunneman, Licensed SCT Practitioner

In this workshop we will explore how Fight Energy flows from the moment it is triggered to the outcome as either inward or outward enacted energy. We will explore the split second fork-in-the-road before enacting that allows for exploring the fight energy and its trigger. In small groups we will experiment real-life with choosing the alternative route to exploring rather than enacting. The group-as-a-whole will make a Force Field on the goal of choosing the exploring fork in the flow. Participants will receive in advance a graphic representation of the flow of Fight Energy.

Category: Conference Afternoon Workshop Track: Organizational|General Interest Level: Open to All Levels

CE credits: 2.0 Format: Didactic|Experiential Day(s): Monday , 2:00 - 4:00

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Describe the forks-in-the-road in the flow of fight energy
• Analyze preferred routes in the flow of fight energy
• Practice the exploration of my retaliatory impulse

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. A 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. The systems-centered approach to group and organizational work has been in the field for over 25 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.

The exploration of the flow of fight energy in this workshop relates to Agazarian's work on the retaliatory impulse (RI), which can be either enacted (outside or inside) or explored. In organizational contexts the RI is ever present (enacted) and hardly ever discussed or normalized as such. By analyzing the flow of the RI in this workshop we normalize and explore this particular expression of Life Energy.

Supporting References

Agazarian, Y.M., Gantt, S.P., & Carter, F. (Eds.) (2021). Systems-centered training: An illustrated guide for applying a theory of living human systems. London, UK: Routledge.

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.

Kunneman, P., & Nordhauzen, P. (2022). Leve het team. Groepsdynamiek: van boosdoener naar bondgenoot. Amsterdam: Boomuitgevers.

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. (2016). Creating effective teams: A guide for members and leaders (5th ed). Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage.)

Presenters

Peter Kunneman, Licensed SCT Practitioner. Peter Kunneman is organization consultant and works with teams in organizations to improve team performance. He applies SCT methods and techniques, so teams learn to systematically weaken restraining forces in group dynamics that hinder team performance. He is first author of 'Leve het team,' a book about applying SCT in organizations.

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03 | Using SCT to Explore Moral Injury and Undo Restraining Forces to Sustainable Change

Trainer(s): Juliet Koprowska, MSW

According to Agazarian, context influences behavior more than individual attributes. Weintrobe describes the contemporary neoliberal political and economic context as a culture of "uncare" in which we experience "moral injury," acting or realising we have acted in ways that conflict with our values. How do we behave, think, feel and see the world? We will explore adaptive survival roles that the neoliberal context triggers.

Category: Conference Afternoon Workshop Track: Clinical|Organizational|General Interest Level: Open to All Levels

CE credits: 2.0 Format: Didactic|Experiential|Sharing of Experience Day(s): Monday , 2:00 - 4:00

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Describe how survival roles develop
• Discuss the concept of moral injury
• Identify sustainable changes that can be made at different system levels

Presentation Content

The presentation is inspired by the work of Sally Weintrobe in her 2021 book, "The Psychological Roots of the Climate Crisis: Neoliberal exceptionalism and the culture of uncare." As a psychoanalyst, she explores the issues of the title from that perspective. This workshop brings systems-centered concepts and insights to the material, developing Weintrobe’s ideas. It will be an opportunity for members to reflect on the larger systems of which we are all part, how they affect our survival roles, and how they impact our personal choices.

Supporting References

Agazarian, Y.M., Gantt, S.P., & Carter, F.B. (2021). Systems-centered training: An illustrated guide for applying a theory of living human systems. London, UK: Routledge.

Hickel, J. (2021). Less is more: How degrowth will save the world. London, UK: Penguin Random House.

Weintrobe, S. (2021). The psychological roots of the climate crisis: Neoliberal exceptionalism and the culture of uncare. New York, NY and London, UK: Bloomsbury.

Presenters

Juliet Koprowska, MSW. Juliet Koprowska, MSW, is a Licensed Systems-Centered Practitioner. She is Honorary Fellow at the University of York where for many years she taught qualifying and registered social workers. She leads and co-leads SCT workshops and training in the UK, Italy and the US. She researches communication in social work practice and is author of "Communication and Interpersonal Skills in Social Work" (5th edition). London: Sage Learning Matters, a book widely used on social work programmes in the UK. She is co-editor with Juhila, K., Dall, T. & Hall, C. (2021), of "Interprofessional Collaboration and Service User Participation: Analysing meetings in social welfare." Bristol: Policy Press, which includes her chapter on "Relational agency and epistemic justice in Initial Child Protection Conferences." She organises the annual SCT event held in York, England.

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04 | The Power of Decluttering - Reducing the Noise in Our Home Environment

Trainer(s): Rosalind Wood, BSc(Hons), MBChB, MRCPsych

The possession of some belongings is driving for our survival and development. But at what point does the procurement and storage of objects in our homes become restraining? This workshop offers an opportunity for us to explore both the survival roles which result in the acquisition of possessions, and those which prevent us from discarding redundant objects from our home environment.

Category: Conference Afternoon Workshop Track: Clinical|Theory and Basics|General Interest Level: Open to All Levels

CE credits: 2.0 Format: Didactic|Experiential|Sharing of Experience Day(s): Monday , 2:00 - 4:00

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Describe a survival role which results in my acquisition of possessions
• Describe a survival role which prevents me from discarding redundant objects from my home
• Describe a "next step" with the goal of decreasing the number of objects in my home

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. A 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.

The systems-centered approach to group and organizational work has been in the field for over 25 years, presented in more than 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., Gantt, S.P., & Carter, F. (Eds.) (2021). Systems-centered training: An illustrated guide for applying a theory of living human systems. London, UK: Routledge.

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

Gantt, S.P., & Badenoch, B. (Eds.) (2013). The interpersonal neurobiology of group psychotherapy and group process. London, UK: Karnac Books.

Rogers, C.J., & Hart, R. (2021). Home and the extended-self: Exploring associations between clutter and wellbeing. Journal of Environmental Psychology, 73, 101553. doi: 10.1016/j.envp.2021.101553

Presenters

Rosalind Wood, BSc(Hons), MBChB, MRCPsych. Dr. Ros Wood is a Consultant Psychiatrist who worked in the UK for the National Health Service for 20 years. She has led multi-disciplinary community mental health teams in South Yorkshire and North Lincolnshire. She has worked with adults who suffer from mental illnesses and disorders including anxiety disorders, OCD, mood disorders, trauma and stress related disorders, eating disorders, personality disorders, neurodevelopmental disorders and comorbid addictions. She has taught psychiatrists, primary care physicians, therapists, nurses, social workers, junior doctors and medical students on a wide variety of clinical topics, including didactic teaching and experiential workshops. She has now retired from the NHS and works in private practice, where she has particular interests in the assessment and treatment of ADHD in adults, and the impact of complex childhood trauma in adulthood. She is a member of Licensing Group VIII.

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05 |

Exploring and Negotiating Boundaries as They Open, Close, and Dissolve

Trainer(s): Rick Campa , Ph.D., CGP

In this workshop, we will identify, explore, and negotiate boundaries that open to similarities and close or dissolve to differences. By subgrouping on the experience of opened, closed, and dissolved boundaries, members will increase their capacity to contain and negotiate these boundary states and broaden their understanding of how these states hold information about the context in which they arise.

Category: Conference Afternoon Workshop Track: Clinical|Organizational|Theory and Basics Level: Open to All Levels

CE credits: 2.0 Format: Didactic|Experiential|Sharing of Experience Day(s): Tuesday , 2:00 - 4:00

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Identify and differentiate boundaries that are open, closed, and dissolved
• Discuss a technique to restore dissolved boundaries
• Describe how to explore dissolved boundaries without requiring restoration of the boundary
• Describe how to explore closed boundaries without requiring that the boundary open
• Demonstrate how to link information about my closed or dissolved boundaries to the larger context in which it arises

Presentation Content

In a theory of living human systems (TLHS), we hypothesize that boundaries open to similarities and close or dissolve to differences. This understanding is linked with SCT techniques that address tension (closed boundary) and low energy (dissolved boundary) to weaken the restraining influence of these somatic reactions. Closed or dissolved boundaries orient us away from inter-person exploration to the relative safety of the inner-person system where survival, not exploration, is the goal. Polyvagal theory offers another window into the human response to differences. Consistent with a TLHS, Polyvagal theory postulates that differences are perceived as threats which arouse responses within the autonomic nervous system designed to ready us for flight, flight, or freeze. Reactions to perceived threat are mediated through the sympathetic and parasympathetic branches of the autonomic nervous system where these systems exhort countervailing influences upon one another. When confronted with perceived threat, hyper-arousal reactions energize activation of the flight, flight, or freeze responses through the sympathetic nervous system. Under these conditions, our boundaries close to channel energy and resources to the primary goal of survival. If the perceived threat persists or intensifies to critical levels, the parasympathetic nervous system initiates the hypo-aroused response of collapse where our boundaries dissolve and we are unable to contain or organize information/energy.

Our workshop will use functional subgrouping to create a context for members to expand their capacity to identify, explore, and negotiate closed and dissolved boundary states where resources typically available through the inter-person curious observer are challenged by the pull to inner-person survivor role systems in response to difference/threat. We hypothesize that expanding one’s ability to retain the exploratory capacity when negotiating closed or dissolved boundaries increases system development and supports the goal of sustainable change.

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., Gantt, S.P., & Carter, F.B. (2021). Systems-centered training: An illustrated guide for applying a theory of living human systems. London, UK: Routledge.

Brantbjerg, M.H. (2019). Widening the map of hypo-states: A methodology to modify muscular hypo-response and support regulation of autonomic nervous system arousal. Body, Movement and Dance in Psychotherapy, An International Journal for Theory, Research and Practice, 15(1), 53-67. doi: 10.1080/17432979.2019.1699604

Gantt, S.P., & Badenoch, B. (Eds.) (2013). The interpersonal neurobiology of group psychotherapy and group process. London, UK: Karnac Books.

Levine, P. (2010). In an unspoken voice: How the body releases trauma and restores goodness. Berkeley, CA: North Atlantic Books.

Porges, S. (2011). The polyvagal theory. New York, NY: Norton.

Presenters

Rick Campa, Ph.D., CGP. Rick Campa, Ph.D., CGP, is a clinical psychologist located in Austin, Texas, and a Licensed SCT Practitioner and trainer. He studied clinical psychology at Boston University where he earned his doctorate in 1991. Rick moved to Austin, Texas, in 1991 and opened a private practice. He began formal training in SCT in 1998. He offers therapy, training, and consultation in SCT theory, methods, and techniques locally and nationally.

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06 | Design Thinking and SCT: Applications in Organizational and Educational Contexts

Trainer(s): Irene McHenry , Ph.D. ; Randy Granger, BFA, NBCT

This workshop explores the similarities and differences between SCT theory and application and Design Thinking theory and application; both are used in human systems for problem-solving and innovation, and both build from a base of curiosity for exploration into the unknown.

Category: Conference Afternoon Workshop Track: Organizational|Theory and Basics|Education|General Interest Level: Open to All Levels

CE credits: 2.0 Format: Didactic|Demonstration|Experiential|Sharing of Experience Day(s): Tuesday , 2:00 - 4:00

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Articulate at least two of the principles of Design Thinking for solving problems in human systems
• Describe the concepts and application of “boundarying” and “exploring” in SCT and the concepts and application of “limits” and “brainstorming “ in Design Thinking, and how they are used in the process of developing and transforming human systems
• From experiential work, name two similarities and two differences between SCT theory and methods and Design Thinking theory and methods

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. A 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.

Design thinking is a powerful tool for devising strategic interdisciplinary or entrepreneurial initiatives, permitting connections between concepts, methods and shifts of perspective that would otherwise be overlooked in a mono-disciplinary "problem-solving" approach. Originating in design, but capable of being applied across a broad range of disciplines, design thinking brings a disruptive, game-changing potential to ways of working that have become routine.

Design thinking has a history extending from the 1950s and '60s, with roots in the study of design cognition and design methods. Bryan Lawson's 1980 book "How Designers Think," primarily addressing design in architecture, began a process of generalising the concept of design thinking. A 1982 article by Nigel Cross, "Designerly Ways of Knowing," established some of the intrinsic qualities and abilities of design thinking that also made it relevant in general education. Design Thinking is widely used in universities and K-12 education around the world, Stanford being one of them.

Design Thinking process has similarities to and differences from a Systems-Centered approach of working with boundaries and differences in creating innovative sustainable change. Both modalities require taking up responsibility as active members in creating the systems that shape us. This workshop explores the similarities and differences between SCT theory and application and Design Thinking theory and application; both are used in human systems for problem-solving and innovation, and both build from a base of curiosity for exploration into the unknown.

Supporting References

Agazarian, Y.M., Gantt, S.P., & Carter, F. (Eds.) (2021). Systems-centered training: An illustrated guide for applying a theory of living human systems. London, UK: Routledge.

Gantt, S.P., & Agazarian, Y.M. (2005). SCT in action: Applying the systems-centered approach in organizations. London, UK: Routledge. Reprint (2006). London, UK: Karnac Books.

Brown, T. (2019). Change by design: How design thinking transforms organizations and sparks innovation. New York, NY: Harper Collins.

Brown, T., et al. (2020). HBR’s 10 must reads on design thinking. Brighton, MA: Harvard University.

Chapman, J. (2021). Meaningful stuff: Design thinking that lasts. Cambridge, MA: MIT Press.

Presenters

Irene McHenry, Ph.D.. Dr. Irene McHenry is a licensed psychologist and educator with decades of experience in leadership development and executive coaching. She brings her passion for pedagogy to consulting and trainings, and has designed and continues to direct the premiere leadership-development program for Friends Council on Education. She is passionate about and excels at developing programs for diverse populations. As a founding faculty member of the Fielding Graduate University's doctoral program in Educational Leadership and Change, Irene worked with the administration to design and implement the curriculum and the mentorship program for underserved adult populations. She was the founding Head of Delaware Valley Friends School, designing the school for adolescents with learning disabilities and creating a unique program for faculty professional development and parent education, to meet students’ needs. She also was co-founder of Greenwood Friends School, the only independent school in its rural region, and she served as adjunct faculty at Lincoln University, an historically Black college. Irene served as a Senior Investigator for the Mind and Life Summer Research Institute; was the Lead Investigator on the National Moral Education Research Project, and served as a consultant to a research project and treatment manual design for the A.J. Drexel Autism Institute. Irene received her BA from Susquehanna University, her MS from Bucknell University, and her MA and Ph.D. in human and organizational development from Fielding Graduate University. She served on the board of managers for Haverford College, the founding board of the Mindfulness in Education Network, and is past president of the board of the Council for American Private Education. She is a trustee for the T. Wistar Brown Teachers' Fund. She is a psychotherapist in private practice in Pennsylvania, a certified SAV I trainer, member of SCTRI Board of Directors, and current OD consultant, coach, and psychotherapist in private practice.

Randy Granger, BFA, NBCT. Randy Granger, a teacher for 53 years, holds an endowed chair established in his honor by a former student (1994) at the William Penn Charter School and became Pennsylvania’s very first National Board-Certified Teacher [NBCT] of Art, K-12, in 2000. From 1998 through 2001 Randy collaborated with The University of the Arts’ National Design Institute to co-create and receive two separate grants from the National Endowment for the Arts and two separate technology grants from the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts (Link to Learn category) to establish a technology-rich, Design-Based learning network of schools and museums across the City of Philadelphia. Randy has served as a Design Team Mentor for the National “Design for Thinking” Teaching Institute at University of the Arts and as a Delegate and Presenter in Art + Design Education on the U.S. Department of Education/National Art Education Association Joint Delegation to The People’s Republic of China. In 2005, Randy became the first non-public school teacher inducted into the National Teachers Hall of Fame. He is a Master teacher in Art and Design Thinking.

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07 | The Ghost in the Machine: Using the SCT Concept of Isomorphy to Understand Our World

Trainer(s): Ray Haddock , MBChB, M.MedSc, FRCPsych

In this workshop we will consider how a theory of living human systems (TLHS) and the SCT concepts of energy and isomorphy can be used to understand the current dilemmas that the world faces. This workshop will explore the hypothesis that this relates to the repetition through time of a human system-as-a-whole survival role that has become a predominant solution and if understanding this opens the possibility of change towards a more sustainable future.

Category: Conference Afternoon Workshop Track: Theory and Basics|General Interest Level: Open to All Levels

CE credits: 2.0 Format: Didactic|Sharing of Experience Day(s): Tuesday , 2:00 - 4:00

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Explain how the concept of isomorphy applies to human history in the present
• Describe how organisation of energy/information is ismorphically transmitted
• State one change that can be made to influence system change

Presentation Content

Agazarian's Theory of Living Human Systems (TLHS) is one of a subgroup of theories that set out to map the world that we live in - human, natural and physical. The concept of isomorphy drives from von Bertalannfy's General System's Theory and though not called a system theory Darwin's Therapy of Evolution is also a system theory. Lovelock and Margulis proposed the Gaia hypothesis which postulates the earth itself is self-regulating system. We live in an era where there is no shortage of the human impact on the systems on which we depend and authors such as Harare and Pinker have made valiant attempts to draw together some of the "big data" on human development and the impact of innovation and also on the world itself. The concept of isomorphy links theoretically all levels of the hierarchy of the system. Agazarian's TLHS confines itself as its title suggests to the human system and includes the concept of survival roles as part of the application in SCT. Survival roles are repeated patterns developed initially as a driving force for survival, development and transformation, the theory suggests this is at all levels in the Human system - individual, family, community etc. There is now significant evidence and publication about how humans are impacting on the earth to the detriment of all that live on earth. This is what we will explore through the lens of theory in this workshop.

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., Gantt, S.P., & Carter, F.B. (2021). Systems-centered training: An illustrated guide for applying a theory of living human systems. London, UK: Routledge.

Bertalanffy, L. von (1968). General systems theory: Foundations, development, applications. New York, NY: George Braziller.

Haddock, R. (2019). Emerging theory: Isomorphy and applying the lens of a theory of living human systems to the world. Systems-Centered News, 27(2), 4-7. [Title printed in error as: Through Survival to Development and Transformation.]

Harari, Y.N. (2015). Sapiens: A brief history of humankind. London, UK: Vintage. (Hardback Harvill Secker, 2014).

Lovelock, J.E., & Margulis, L. (1974). Atmospheric homeostasis by and for the biosphere: The gaia hypothesis. Tellus, 26(1–2), 2–10. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.2153-3490.1974.tb01946.x

Pinker, S. (2018). Enlightenment now: The case for reason, science, humanism, and progress. New York, NY: Viking/Penguin Books.

Presenters

Ray Haddock, MBChB, M.MedSc, FRCPsych. Ray is a Licensed Systems-Centered Practitioner and member of the Systems-Centered Training and Research Institute Board. He is also a member of the Institute of Group Analysis, and he sits on the International Association of Group Psychotherapy Board. He leads SCT training groups and workshops in UK and internationally. Trained as a medical doctor, psychiatrist and psychotherapist, he was a Consultant Medical Psychotherapist in the NHS for over 25 years, where he occupied several management roles, including whole system service development, and taught trainees in psychiatry and psychotherapy. He uses SCT clinically in individual and group therapy and a Theory of Living Human Systems in day-to-day organisational work, consultation, mentoring and leadership development. He also has a life long interest in the natural world and ecological systems and how a Theory off Living Human Systems might be useful in solving the World's problems

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08 | Exploring Negotiating

Trainer(s): Allan Rubin , BS, MBA ; Paula Nordhauzen, BA

Negotiating during subgrouping is a common occurrence in systems-centered groups yet there is not currently a Functional Subgrouping Negotiation Protocol in the SCT Foundation Manual and little to no documentation about it elsewhere in our system. What are the driving and restraining forces? This workshop will use subgrouping and the SCT Task group structure in service of exploring negotiating.

Category: Conference Afternoon Workshop Track: Clinical|Organizational Level: Open to All Levels

CE credits: 2.0 Format: Didactic|Experiential|Sharing of Experience Day(s): Tuesday , 2:00 - 4:00

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Use functional subgrouping to explore the negotiating process
• Use force fields to understand driving and restraining forces and identify easiest next steps for workshop participants and, potentially, the larger SCTRI system
• Explore the challenge of negotiating who speaks next in a group using the person-to-member map, the SAVI grid, and other resources the group may identify

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. A 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.

The theory of living human systems defines a hierarchy of isomorphic systems that are energy organizing, goal directed, and self correcting. Every system exists in the context of the system above it and is the context for the system below it. This workshop explores enhancing a team’s member system by exploring and framing contexts for the team members’ person systems below it.

Supporting References

Agazarian, Y.M. (2014). Emerging theory: A theory of living human systems, 2014. Systems-Centered News, 22(1), 3-9.

Agazarian, Y.M. (2015). De-personalizing “personalizing.” Systems-Centered News, 23(1), 4-6.

Agazarian, Y.M. (2015). Our person-as-a-system revisited. Systems-Centered News, 23(1), 7-13.

Agazarian, Y.M. (2018). The nuts and bolts of systems-centered practice. Systems-Centered News, 26(1), 5-9.

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.

Presenters

Allan Rubin, BS, MBA. Allan Rubin has been an organizational consultant for the past 32 years. He spent 12 years as an external consultant with an emphasis on continuous improvement and change management for client companies in the U.S., Asia, and South America. Allan has worked the past 20 years as an internal OD consultant focusing on analyzing and diagnosing business systems and designing and executing interventions that maximize individual and team performance. He is an Intermediate Level practitioner in his eighth year as a member of an SCT training group.

Paula Nordhauzen, BA. Paula Nordhauzen, BA, studied Communication at the Hanze University of Applied Sciences. She is passionate about communication, team development, and self-organization. She is a SAVI® certified trainer. In her work, she provides training and is a project manager and coach in organizational development. She is the co-author (with Peter Kunneman) of a Dutch book about SCT in organizations.

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09 |

"Container-Contained": Exploring Bion's Theory Through an SCT Lens

Trainer(s): Carolyn Ehrlich , LCSW-R, CGP

Agazarian’s development of SCT was influenced by her exposure to Bion’s writings, and they resonated with her theoretical conceptualizations. We, like Agazarian, can be energized by our psychoanalytic roots. Join me as we explore how to expand our SCT observational capacity. We will look at Bion’s three "Container" types, and learn to notice their emergence within us as members, subgroups, and group-as-a-whole.

Category: Conference Afternoon Workshop Track: Clinical|Theory and Basics|General Interest Level: Open to All Levels

CE credits: 2.0 Format: Didactic|Experiential|Sharing of Experience Day(s): Thursday , 2:00 - 4:00

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Define one key characteristic associated with each of the following “Containers”: Symbiotic, Parasitic, and Commensal
• Compare how the Symbiotic, Parasitic, and Commensal “Containers” discriminate and integrate differences differently
• Assess in which “Containers” the identified patient and scapegoat dynamics are more likely to occur
• Describe how the Parasitic “Container” will only exist within a state of survival

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. A 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.

The systems-centered approach to group and organizational work has been in the field for over 25 years, presented in more than 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.

A theory of living human systems postulates that living human systems survive, develop, and transform from simple to complex, by discriminating and integrating differences, and was influenced by Bion’s understanding of interpersonal group dynamics. This workshop focuses on the intersection between Agazarian’s understanding of human development, and Bion’s concept of the Symbiotic, Parasitic, and Commensal “Containers”, that describes the relationship between the “Container” (i.e., the group-as-a-whole), and the “Contained” (i.e., the individuals that comprise the group).

Supporting References

Agazarian, Y.M. (1997). Systems-centered therapy for groups. New York, NY: Guilford. Re-printed in paperback (2004). London, UK: Karnac Books.

Agazarian, Y.M., Gantt, S.P., & Carter, F.B. (2021). Systems-centered training: An illustrated guide for applying a theory of living human systems. London, UK: Routledge.

Billow, R.M. (2000). Relational variations of the "container-contained." GROUP: Journal of the Eastern Group Psychotherapy Society, 24(4), 243-259.

Bion, W.R. (1961). Experiences in groups. London, UK: Tavistock.

Bion, W.R. (1962). A theory of thinking. International Journal of Psychoanalysis, 43, 306-310.

Gantt, S.P. (2021). Systems-centered theory (SCT) into group therapy: Beyond surviving ruptures to repairing and thriving. International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, 71(2), 224-252. doi: 10.1080/00207284.2020.1772073

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

Presenters

Carolyn Ehrlich, LCSW-R, CGP. Carolyn Ehrlich, LCSW-R, CGP is a NYC based psychotherapist in private practice for over 20 years. She integrated group work into her practice 11 years ago, and shortly thereafter became interested in SCT as it applies to group, couples', and individual psychotherapy. Carolyn currently serves as teaching Faculty member of the Eastern Group Psychotherapy Society (EGPS) Training Program in Group Psychotherapy. She had a previous career in Graphic Design.

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10 |

Using SCT to Make More Humor and Fun in Your Work and Life

Trainer(s): Richard O’Neill , Ph.D., FAClinP, CGP, ABPP

Rich O'Neill will discuss how he uses SCT methods to center himself, undo his own anxiety, assess the context, allow fun and potentially funny thoughts and feelings to pop up and then decide whether to pop them out of his mind via his mouth and into the world (work, or life, or both). Members will use SCT methods to undo inhibitions to fun and being funny as we create a space to enjoy.

Category: Conference Afternoon Workshop Track: General Interest Level: Open to All Levels

CE credits: 2.0 Format: Didactic|Experiential Day(s): Thursday , 2:00 - 4:00

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Apply the skill of functional subgrouping to develop a group and life space for fun and humor
• Apply the skill of centering myself to prepare for having fun and exploring and expressing humor
• Apply the skill of undoing anxiety to become curious and creative in the here-and-now in the face of uncertainty about the outcome of humorous expression

Presentation Content

O’Neill and colleagues have shown that groups run with SCT methods are more collaborative, productive and creative, and have higher engagement, less avoidance, less conflict, better inter-member relationships, and more overall learning and goal achievement than groups using various other communication structures. Research specifically examining functional subgrouping has shown that group members find it a positive experience and that it relates to better morale over time, more overall learning and more goal achievement. See O’Neill et al. (2013) research below for related references.

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., & Carter, F. (Eds.) (2021). Systems-centered training: An illustrated guide for applying a theory of living human systems. London, UK: Routledge.

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., Murphy, V., Mogle, J., MacKenzie, M.J., MacGregor, K.L., Pearson, M., & Parekh, M. (2013). Are systems-centered teams more collaborative, productive and creative? Journal of Team Performance Management, 19(3/4), 201-221. doi: 10.1108/TPM-04-2012-0015

Presenters

Richard O’Neill, Ph.D., FAClinP, CGP, ABPP. Rich O'Neill, Ph.D., FAClinP, CGP, ABPP, has presented in the media since 1985 including 10 years with his "Checkup from the Neckup" radio and YouTube spots, 5 years with his "Healthy Decisions" weekly TV segment, and 14 seasons with the PBS-affiliated TV show he launched, hosts and co-produces--"Cycle of Health" (wcny.org/cycleofhealth). He consults now with individuals, partners, and groups on achieving greater health, happiness, and success.

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11 | Systems-Centered Writing: A Creative Writing Group Experience

Trainer(s): Joseph Hovey , LCSW, CGP

In this interactive workshop, members will discover the value of writing creatively within a group, and participate in a live experience of the same. Building on the presenter’s experience in a long-running creative writing group of clinicians, participants will write and share, following their energy onto the page. We’ll use functional subgrouping as a structure both to share our writing, and to explore our experience.

Category: Conference Afternoon Workshop Track: Clinical|Organizational|Education|General Interest Level: Open to All Levels

CE credits: 2.0 Format: Experiential Day(s): Thursday , 2:00 - 4:00

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Name one driving and one restraining force toward the goal of writing creatively in a group context
• Describe how creative writing can help individuals and groups develop in professional and personal contexts
• Compare the impact of survival roles with that of curious observer roles on my creativity and my creative output

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. A theory of living human systems has defined theoretical constructs and operational definitions that implement and test the 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.

The systems-centered approach to group and organizational work has been in the field for over 25 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.

Reflective and creative writing has been shown to have value throughout history. For example, as researched by Pennebaker (1997) in a therapeutic process: In helping put words to our human experiences, and in clinical contexts, to support in healing and growth. By integrating the tools and insight of SCT into the context of creative and/or clinical writing, we might develop richer and deeper awareness of ourselves, our relationships, our groups, and broader systems.

Supporting References

Agazarian, Y.M. (1997). Systems-centered therapy for groups. New York, NY: Guilford. Re-printed in paperback (2004). London, UK: Karnac Books.

Agazarian, Y.M., Gantt, S.P., & Carter, F. (Eds.) (2021). Systems-centered training: An illustrated guide for applying a theory of living human systems. London, UK: Routledge.

Gantt, S.P. (2015). Systems-centered group therapy. In E.S. Neukrug (Ed.), Encyclopedia of theory in counseling and psychotherapy (pp. 991-996). Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage.

Gantt, S.P., & Adams, J. (2010). Systems-centered training for therapists: Beyond stereotyping to integrating diversities into the change process. Women & Therapy, 33(1), 101–120. doi: 10.1080/02703140903404812

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

Pennebaker, J.W. (1997). Writing about emotional experiences as a therapeutic process. Psychological Science, 8(3), 162–166. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1467-9280.1997.tb00403.x

Presenters

Joseph Hovey, LCSW, CGP. Joseph Hovey, LCSW, CGP, is a psychotherapist and supervisor in Brooklyn, NY. He provides individual and relationship therapy through his private practice, runs a gay men’s therapy group, and serves on the faculty of the Eastern Group Psychotherapy Society (EGPS) Group Therapy Training Program. He has been training in SAVI since 2017 and SCT since 2015. He serves as the treasurer on the board of the Eastern Group Psychotherapy Society. He has presented at multiple workshops and events, and has been part of an ongoing creative clinical writing group with other therapists for eight years.

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12 | Whatever we say a thing isn’t, it IS! (Adapted from Korzybski, 1933)
Weakening Racialized Role Locks in SCT Practice

Trainer(s): Joan Adams , MSW, LCSW-R ; Frances Carter, MSS, LSW ; Susan Gantt, Ph.D., ABPP, CGP, DFAGPA, FAPA

In the authority phase with its dynamics of power and control, SCT protocols are designed to weaken the restraining forces that maintain our closed survivor roles. Yet SCT protocols may be easily misused in a way that replicates implicit racialized norms in our larger system contexts, e.g., the leader who is in a dominant, one-up survival role (you have to do it right), or the leader who is in a compliant, one-down survival role (I have to get it right). We will explore how to observe this in our work and develop our capacity for system correction in ourselves and the systems we cocreate with our clients.

Category: Conference Afternoon Workshop Track: Clinical|Organizational|General Interest Level: Open to All Levels

CE credits: 2.0 Format: Didactic|Experiential Day(s): Friday , 2:00 - 4:00

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Discriminate between leadership behaviors that structure and build a developing system versus dominant leader role output that can replicate or elicit historical racist hierarchies
• Identify how compliant roles in leaders (e.g., dropping the structure) or members (e.g., going along “as if”) sabotage development and maintain stereotyped hierarchies which may easily evoke racialized traumas and trigger closed survivor roles
• Describe how enacting closed survivor roles can contribute to maintaining implicit racist norms at all system levels
• Discuss how exploring our closed survivor roles frees energy for developing more functional systems

Presentation Content

Addressing how racism is relevant for psychotherapists, coaches and consultants is well illustrated in the American Psychoanalytic Association’s three-part special section of The American Psychoanalyst (TAP) entitled “Conversations on Psychoanalysis and Race” (Winter/Spring 2017 issue) with articles by Beverly J. Stoute on “Race and Racism in Psychoanalytic Thought: Are There Ghosts in Our Nursery?,” Anton Hart on “From Multicultural Competence to Radical Openness: A Psychoanalytic Engagement of Otherness,” and Dorothy Holmes on “The Fierce Urgency of Now: Will Institutional Psychoanalysis Answer the Call to Psychoanalytic Understanding and Treatment of Racial Disturbances among Us?”

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. A 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., Gantt, S.P., & Carter, F.B. (Eds.) (2021). Systems-centered training: An illustrated guide for applying a theory of living human systems. London, UK: Routledge.

Ashley, W.W.C. (2021). New rules for radicals: TNT for faith-based leaders. King of Prussia, PA: Judson Press.

Ashley, W.W.C., Gantt, S.P., Adams, J.M., & Carter, F.B. (2022, April 8). Working with Systemic Racism and Its Impact [Online conference workshop]. Systems-Centered Training Annual Conference. https://www.systemscentered.com/SCT-Conference-2022/2022-Program-Workshops

Finlay, L.D., Abernethy, A.D., & Garrels, S.R. (2016). Scapegoating in group therapy: Insights from Girard’s mimetic theory. International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, 66(2), 188-204. doi: 10.1080/00207284.2015.1106174

Gantt, S.P., & Adams, J.M. (2010). Systems-centered training for therapists: Beyond stereotyping to integrating diversities into the change process. Women & Therapy, 33(1), 101-120. doi: 10.1080/02703140903404812

Major, B., & Barndt, J. (2023). Deconstructing racism: A path toward lasting change. Minneapolis, MN: Fortress Press.

Stoute, B.J., & Davids, F. (2022, October 9). Refugees, primitiveness and the Eurocentric gaze [Online event]. Freud Museum World Mental Health Day 2022. https://www.freud.org.uk/event/refugees-primitiveness-and-the-eurocentric-gaze/

Presenters

Joan Adams, MSW, LCSW-R. Joan Adams, MSW, LCSW-R, is a licensed clinical social worker who maintains a private practice of psychotherapy and clinical supervision in Harlem, New York City; and provides training and consulting on racial equity, anti-racism and anti-oppression, and cultural competency for individuals, groups and organizations. Ms. Adams is an independent consultant/trainer for several groups. Ms. Adams completed the Undoing Racism Workshop™ led by The People’s Institute for Survival and Beyond and participates in the work of the Anti-racist Alliance, which is the New York area organizing group of The People’s Institute. She has participated in the Workshop and served as a Resource Facilitator numerous times.

Frances Carter, MSS, LSW. Frances Carter, MSS, LSW, is a Licensed Social Worker, living and working in the Philadelphia area. She maintains a consulting practice working with individuals, couples, groups and organizations. Fran is a founding member of the Systems-Centered Training and Research Institute, 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 co-authored Systems-Centered Training: An Illustrated Guide for Applying a Theory of Living Human Systems (2021) with Yvonne Agazarian and Susan Gantt.

Susan Gantt, Ph.D., ABPP, CGP, DFAGPA, FAPA. Susan P. Gantt, Ph.D., ABPP, CGP, DFAGPA, FAPA, is a psychologist in private practice and coordinated group psychotherapy training in psychiatry at Emory University for 29 years. She chairs the Systems-Centered Training (SCT) and Research Institute; teaches SCT in the USA, Europe and China; and leads training groups in Atlanta, San Francisco, and The Netherlands. She has co-authored four books with Yvonne Agazarian, co-edited The Interpersonal Neurobiology of Group Psychotherapy and Group Process with Bonnie Badenoch, and received the 2011 Alonso Award for Excellence in Psychodynamic Group Psychotherapy. Her latest book is Systems-Centered Training: An Illustrated Guide for Applying a Theory of Living Human Systems (Agazarian, Gantt & Carter, 2021).