Mastering the Art of Group Therapy
A Guide for Facilitators
by Steven Sawyer, MSSW, LICSW, ATSA-F 

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In this book, I offer a kaleidoscope of examples of groups with various member compositions, in a variety of settings, and at different stages of group development to illustrate real world issues and options for clinical interventions. - Steven Sawyer

Studies show that therapeutic groups are more effective when the focus is on the group as a whole, rather than on the facilitator, leading to what author Steven Sawyer describes as a "group-centered-group." Sawyer has applied his 40 years of experience in creating this practical guide. Mastering the Art of Group Therapy is focused largely on the day-to-day practice of group facilitation. It is filled with real world group examples from a variety of settings.

From page 20 of Mastering the Art of Group Therapy. Click image to view full size.

Mastering the Art of Group Therapy is composed of four parts:

In Part I, Sawyer discusses how to facilitate and assess a high-functioning group; that is, one that has structure, provides a positive and safe emotional climate and interpersonal experience, along with strong member-to-member interaction.

Part II covers the four developmental stages of the group from starting a new group, evolving the members into a working group, and finally bringing the group to a successful close.

Part III digs deeper into the challenges a facilitator faces in promoting group functionality. This includes overcoming obstacles to group development, and recognizing and taking advantage of significant moments in the group therapy process. Sawyer devotes a chapter on the issues involved with facilitating groups that meet online.

In Part IV, Sawyer describes how to maintain a high-functioning group with three special situations: group treatment with sexual or violent offenders; groups in institutional settings; and psychopathy and group treatment.

Mastering the Art of Group Therapy concludes with four appendices providing a set of tools facilitators can use to apply principles covered in its pages.

Click here to view the Table of Contents and Introduction.

Click Here to View Steve Sawyer's Bio, Trainings, and Other Publications

If you're tasked with leading a treatment group composed of members with a variety of problematic behaviors—including domestic violence, criminal violence, substance abuse, sexual addiction, and sexual offending—you will find Mastering the Art of Group Therapy a crucial resource for achieving positive outcomes.