Principles of leadership in brief training groups for mental health care professionals

Leadership in brief training groups requires a high level of skill, energy, and professionalism. The group needs to be led in a purposeful, constructive manner. A metaphor for beneficial leadership is suggested through the image of a mountain guide who sustains and helps members of the group in their exploration of the psychological terrain that is themselves. The leader has five main tasks: (1) to contain the anxieties of the group, (2) quickly establish a therapeutic atmosphere in the group, (3) guide the group toward issues that can be addressed in the time available, (4) guard against damaging self-disclosure and loss of self-esteem, and (5) help the group end well. Clinical vignettes illustrate the realization of these practice points.