ABSTRACT

Psychoeducational groups are a blend of cognitive components such as dissemination of information and of affective components such as expression of feelings, with each component having a role of equal importance. The leader should remain aware of the vulnerability of the client, the need for safety and trust for the relationship, the ethical and legal standards and requirements, and his/her professional responsibilities. Leaders are also advised to become knowledgeable about the federal The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act regulations about reporting and exchange of treatment information, including group members' access to reports and case notes about them and the group. Groups seem to run best when there has been some organizing and structuring of the group in advance. There are three primary concerns: the purpose and goals, the target audience, and structural concerns. This chapter presents the ethical and professional standards that apply to psychoeducational group facilitation.