ABSTRACT
INTRODUCTION Creating and leading psychoeducational groups demands a considerable amount of expertise and knowledge. A variety of groups fall into the category of psychoeducational, the conditions addressed are vast and emotionally sensitive, and there is a wide range of intended audiences. The leader of these groups has to be extensively prepared with information, skills, and a deep understanding of the group topics and the intended audience. Leaders are not just presenters of information. They are also facilitators who are responsible for the following:
• Guiding participants’ personal learning • Showing group members how to interact to reduce isolation and to help each
other • Providing opportunities for emotional expression in a safe place • Capitalizing on and fostering development of hope • Directing and implementing learning for members • Implementing strategies to promote members’ self-understanding • Creating opportunities to practice new learning
The extensiveness of what needs to be learned, practiced, and understood in order to lead effective psychoeducational groups was the groundwork for the development of the KASST Model. This model is related to much of the material presented in this book and is intended to guide your learning. Each chapter presents information on one or more components. For example, Chapter 2 discusses leaders’ skills and some art factors. Use the model as a guide for gathering knowledge, learning skills and techniques, and understanding the group.
