Belonging and the Power of Group in Stressful Times (The American Group Psychotherapy Association 2026 Conference...

The current paper is the Alonso Plenary Presidential Address given at the Annual American Group Psychotherapy Association's 2026 Conference. The plenary focuses on how we are uniquely suited to address the psychological stressors, trauma, and mass trauma group members carry into their therapy and support groups. We have at our disposal the multifaceted tools of healing, including (1) small groups, which provide a safe container to process, metabolize and create symbolic meaning; (2) large groups, where projections, stereotypes, racism, and unresolved social traumas can be expressed, examined, and transformed, and (3) support groups for communities facing manmade and natural disasters. The evidence-based support for the efficacy of group therapy, leadership considerations, the importance of DEIA constructs and community involvement, core values to enhance organizational cohesion and self-care strategies for group therapists are discussed.