ABSTRACT
This chapter addresses the importance of pregroup orientation to ready group members for the process, create positive expectations, and encourage active consideration of individual and group goals. Regular check-ins during the course of the group treatment will help both the leaders and the members determine progress in these three areas. An abundance of research supports the efficacy of group therapy—but prospective group members may not be aware of these facts. By enhancing positive expectations of the group therapy experience, leaders can facilitate better investment in the group and more favorable outcomes. Well-researched social psychological principles in goal-setting can be used to inform group therapy goal-setting practices. Group therapy is most effective when members are motivated and are in the group voluntarily. All of the activities in this chapter assume that group members are willing to participate and complete the tasks provided.
