Description: While between 80 and 90 percent of today's groups are designed for brief therapy with people who share common problems, much of today's existing literature concentrates on working over a long period of time with people with different problems. This practical resource fills the gap in that literature. Focusing on "common-theme" groups - people who share problems such as eating disorders, phobias, low self-esteem, or medical problems such as diabetes, cancer, or multiple sclerosis - it presents the "how-tos" of planning, designing, leading, and monitoring effective, productive groups. The book is organized around the idea of what makes a group work and provides a clear conceptual framework for organizing and leading groups. It moves step-by-step through the entire process of the group, from its conception and formation throughout its life, and details how to evaluate the group's progress and plan for future improvement. There are numerous case examples illustrating major group concerns and providing guidance for leaders faced with difficult problems, and there is unique coverage of ethical aspects of group leadership, including two codes of conduct and how they impact on practice. Focusing on the practical issues of what makes groups work, yet based on solid research, this is the ideal ready-reference for anyone involved with setting up and leading brief group therapy for individuals with common problems and similar concerns.

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