ABSTRACT
This chapter presents the Interpersonal Dynamics (ID) consultation within the broader context of reflective practice for staff. Reflective practice is widely accepted as an essential component of good clinical work and has also been called work discussion and staff group supervision. Usually a group of multidisciplinary staff meets regularly with a facilitator; in other cases the meeting is with a particular professional group. The value, even the indispensability, of reflective practice emerges from an understanding of a frequently encountered form of psychopathology and its effects on patient–staff interactions within mental health settings. The unique purpose of a Reflective Practice Group is to offer this regular opportunity for staff members to reflect together on their work as individuals and as a team. Institutions must solve fundamental issues in order to survive and to develop creatively. Primarily, such issues relate to two areas, the primary task and internal organisation.
