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Parting gifts: termination rituals in group therapy
Elizabeth L Shapiro1, Rachel Ginzberg
1Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Center for Psychoanalytic Studies, Massachusetts General Hospital, USA.
International Journal of Group Psychotherapy
|June 27, 2002
Summary
Patient termination from group therapy can be challenging. A personalized termination ritual helps patients gain self-awareness and enhances therapeutic benefits for everyone involved.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Group Therapy
Background:
- Patient termination from group therapy is a significant event impacting all participants.
- Unmanaged emotions during termination can disrupt treatment and group cohesion.
Observation:
- A tailored termination ritual, reflecting individual patient needs and goals, can foster a stronger sense of self.
- Therapist attunement to termination rituals and gifts is crucial.
Findings:
- Termination rituals can facilitate constructive emotional expression.
- Personalized rituals aid in achieving a more defined sense of self for the departing patient.
Implications:
- Exploring termination rituals maximizes therapeutic benefits for both the individual and the group.
- This approach supports a healthier group process during patient transitions.
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