Psychodynamic Group Psychotherapy

“Very informative for the beginning group therapist. The book was especially helpful because of its broad-based approachwith a number of theoretical perspectives considered to further the understanding and integration necessary in exploratory therapy. The eclectic stance was a change from other models of exploratory group therapy frequently taught in training programs. I would recommend this book to any psychiatry resident interested in becoming a group therapist.”

—Psychiatry: Interpersonal and Biological Processes (on the fourth edition)


“The writing is clear and clean....That this excellence is maintained throughout a book by three different authors is a tribute to the quality of the collaboration. Difficult concepts are explained well and in depth, but without oversimplification. Clinical examples are used copiously throughout and invariably richly illustrate the point under discussion....A particular strength (and remarkable achievement) of the book is that it offers something for everyone, from the novice to the highly experienced....An essential part of the library of every group psychotherapist.”

—International Journal of Group Psychotherapy (on the fourth edition)


“Presents a cohesive theoretical framework for the practice of group psychotherapy from a psychodynamic framework....The authors have succeeded nicely in unifying a complicated field without resorting to oversimplification....Fills an important niche and is unique in many ways. Without sacrificing intellectual clarity, it unifies and organizes the theory that underlies psychodynamic group psychotherapy....I highly recommend it.”

—Doody's Review Service (on the second edition)


“[The authors] have drawn from their vast experience to put together what is probably the best available book on psychodynamic group psychotherapy….The book should continue to be widely used as a basic text for teaching psychodynamic group psychotherapy.”

—Psychiatric Services (on the second edition)


“A comprehensive source for all aspects of group psychotherapy. Topics range from nuts-and-bolts issues like getting groups under way to substantial discussions of group development and dynamics, including ideas from attachment and mentalization theory. This is a book that will be of great interest to students just beginning clinical work, early-career professionals, and senior psychoanalytic psychologists who wish to improve and refresh their skills.”

—Elliot Jurist, PhD, Professor of Psychology and Philosophy, The Graduate Center and the City College of New York, City University of New York


“Since the publication of the first edition, this wonderful book has been the most valuable single volume on psychodynamic group therapy. Our culture has changed at a staggering rate; the fifth edition takes into account the impact of social media, public policy, and neuroscience research, bringing the field up to the moment. This book belongs in the library of every therapist, from beginning student to seasoned clinician.”

—Hillel I. Swiller, MD, Director, Division of Psychotherapy, Mount Sinai School of Medicine


“A 'must' for those learning the basics of group therapy and for experienced clinicians seeking to integrate contemporary developmental theories, neurobiological findings, and sophisticated group interventions. The authors emphasize dynamic approaches, but all group leaders, regardless of orientation, can benefit. Readers will learn how interpersonal difficulties develop and how group therapy has the potential to change lifelong perceptions of self and others and alleviate human suffering. I have used this text for over 10 years in my graduate courses; the fifth edition includes recent research findings, additional dynamic approaches to group treatment, and new clinical vignettes. It is a true gem that I will continue to rely on for training the next generation of group therapists.”

—Cheri L. Marmarosh, PhD, Professional Psychology Program, The George Washington University


“I have used Psychodynamic Group Psychotherapy in teaching and find it to be a valuable resource to help graduate-level trainees gain a good grasp of group dynamics. Nuanced and yet succinct, the book elucidates the fundamentals of group functioning and equips the future practitioner to create an environment in which group members can connect with others in healing and meaningful ways. The fifth edition draws on contemporary research and neurobiology to demonstrate that human, face-to-face interaction is still necessary for creating well-being, even in our era of proliferating technology.”

—Alexandra Watkins, LMHC, CPRP, Adjunct Faculty, Counseling and Psychology Department, Lesley University