ABSTRACT
It is also important to remember certain stylistic issues when working with groups, and potentially with individuals if an individual approach is used as well. Much of this treatment is akin to taking a class in that there are reading assignments, homework assignments, and a clear expectation to master the material. Particularly when using a group format it is very important for the therapist to be responsible for the progress of the group. Not uncommonly subgroups of patients, particularly those with Cluster B Axis II personality disorders, may attempt to derail the process of the group. Also patients may attempt to switch the process to focus on other issues such as depression or relationship issues. ˜e therapist needs to be able to say, “˜ose are important problems, but we don’t have time to focus on them in this group. Our focus is on compulsive buying and you may need to work on those in some other therapy context.” If the therapist establishes this precedent early on this will be very helpful for group members in developing the expected cadence and direction of the treatment.
