The advanced-stage therapy group

Many authors describe a stage of maturity in the development of groups, but each highlights a different dimension. This article describes the characteristics of the advanced stage and the main axes along which it develops (internalization and containment, symbolization, self and self-other development, differentiation and individuation). It also offers a conceptual explanation for these developments and attempts to identify the conditions necessary for the emergence of this stage of maturity. An understanding of this stage and the conditions required for its development can be used by the group leader as a compass to help him or her navigate the group toward this objective.