ABSTRACT
In this chapter, the authors describe how to start a therapy group. They discuss preparatory interviews with potential group members; the group member selection process, including the suitability and unsuitability of potential group members. The authors describe the conditions associated with the success of group therapy how groups are started, how group members are selected, and how group leaders prepare the group members for the group therapy. It emphasizes the importance of the collaboration within the organizational context for the success of therapy groups. Although the focus of group therapy is often a particular diagnosis that group members share, they can differentiate themselves by also focusing on and changing their unique communication problems in their individual relationships. In the preparatory interview with the group leader, Sabrina realizes that the recommended therapy group will not be like her other social groups. To conclude this chapter on preparatory interviews, the authors summarize Whitaker's list of common fears people often have about group therapy.
