SCT Conference 2018 Program

In this two-day experiential practicum, members learn to use SCT functional subgrouping and reduce defenses in a specific sequence to develop the system's capacity for solving problems and applying common sense to everyday conflicts.

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Describe the symptoms of anxiety and the skills to undo anxiety
• Identify tension in the body, describe the function of tension and how to let go of tension
• Discriminate between feelings coming from thoughts vs. feelings coming from the here-and-now direct experience
• Use SCT methods to come into the present, work in the present, and modify defenses in the present context
• Subgroup functionally by joining on similarities, rather than separating from and rejecting differences
• Join and work with others in a functional subgroup, as opposed to working alone

Presentation Content

Agazarian’s (1997) theory of living human systems, with its systems-centered approach to group practice, represents a developed and comprehensive systems theory applied to groups, individuals and couples. The theory of living human systems has defined theoretical constructs and operational definitions that implement and test the theoretical hypotheses in its practice. This theory and its methods are accepted among group practitioners as evidenced by SCTRI’s 2010 recognition for “Outstanding Contributions in Education and Training in the Field of Group Psychotherapy” awarded by the National Registry of Certified Group Psychotherapists. SCT methods are regularly cited or included in handbooks and reviews of group psychotherapy practice. There is also significant peer-reviewed published support for the theory and its practice, including articles in the International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, Group Dynamics, Small Group Research, Organizational Analysis, and Group Analysis.

Supporting References

Agazarian, Y.M. (1997). Systems-centered therapy for groups. New York, NY: Guilford Press. Re-printed in paperback (2004). London, UK: Karnac Books.

Gantt, S.P., & Agazarian, Y.M. (Eds.) (2005). SCT in action: Applying the systems-centered approach in organizations. Lincoln, NE: iUniverse. Reprint (2006). London, UK: Karnac Books.

Agazarian, Y.M., & Gantt, S.P. (2000). Autobiography of a theory. London, UK: Jessica Kingsley.

Presenters

Claudia A. Byram, Ph.D., CGP. Claudia Byram, Ph.D., CGP, has worked since 1980 as a clinician and trainer. She began work with Yvonne Agazarian in the early 80s, and has developed as a clinician and trainer as Systems-Centered therapy developed. Currently, she is a licensed Systems-Centered Practitioner with a clinical practice in Philadelphia. She leads Systems-Centered training events as well as communications training and consultation in the SAVI (System for Analyzing Verbal Interaction) model.

Mike Maher, MA, PCGE. Mike Maher, MA, PGCE, is a psychotherapist, trainer and organizational consultant. He is a Licensed SCT Practitioner and Director of SCTRI and leads two ongoing SCT training groups. He was Deputy Director in a Therapeutic Community and subsequently he has developed a specialism in working with staff who work with client groups - adolescents and adults - characterized by their challenging natures. He has written papers and book chapters in working with staff groups, organizational issues in mental health reform, managing self-harm behaviors and other subjects, and has presented at many national and international conferences.

SAVI (System for Analyzing Verbal Interactions) maps communication behaviors that contribute noise and those that build clarity in any human system: organizations, work groups, families, clients and everyday life. Learn to recognize repetitive, unproductive communication loops as well as system patterns that free energy for problem-solving and work. This is a core SCT training.

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Define "noise" in verbal communication systems
• Produce Avoidance (noisy) behavior and Approach (congruent) behaviors
• Produce behaviors representing the Personal, Factual and Orienting columns of the SAVI Grid
• Name three SAVI behavior sequences (Alerts) that signal emerging noise in the communication system
• Practice strategies to reduce communication noise in at least 3 common redundant sequences
• Identify the difference between "noisy" communication patterns and problem solving patterns.

Presentation Content

Behavioral observation systems are well established in the research and clinical fields. This particular model, System for Analyzing Verbal Interaction, has been used for research in 4 dissertations, reported as a group process tool in 4 peer reviewed publications, and is currently used for data collection in 3 as yet unpublished ongoing studies. It has a sound theoretical base in both field theory (Kurt Lewin) and information theory (Shannon), and builds on the work of Bales and others who developed observation systems to study classroom interactions.

Supporting References

Agazarian, Y.M., & Gantt, S.P. (2000). Autobiography of a theory. London, UK: Jessica Kingsley.

Byram, C., Marshall, E., & Simon, A. (2006). Red, yellow, green: Modifying communication patterns in an elementary school system. In S.P. Gantt, & Y.M. Agazarian (Eds.), SCT in action: Applying the systems-centered approach in organizations (pp. 99-128). London, UK: Karnac Books.

Simon, A. (1993). Using SAVI for couples' therapy. Journal of Family Psychotherapy, 4, 39-62.

Simon, A., & Agazarian, Y.M. (2000). SAVI - The system for analyzing verbal interaction. In A. Beck, & C. Lewis (Eds.), The process of group psychotherapy: Systems for analyzing change (pp. 357-380). Washington, D.C.: American Psychological Association.

Presenters

Frances Carter, MSS, LSW. Frances Carter, MSS, LSW, CGP, is a Licensed Social Worker living and working in the Philadelphia area. She maintains a clinical and consulting practice working with individuals, couples, groups and organizations. Fran is a founding member of the Systems-Centered Training and Research Institute, and a Board Member and System Mentor. She continues to be interested in the development of training, curriculum and research and has contributed her time to these work groups within SCTRI. She is a licensed Systems-Centered Practitioner and a senior trainer, leading workshops, ongoing training and consultation groups and intensive training blocks throughout the US and Europe. She is also a partner and Senior trainer in SAVI Communications and the SAVI Network where she works with others to develop training in the SAVI approach to communication.

How do we contribute to making organizations more satisfying and productive places in which to work? SCT offers a map for making sense of our experience in organizations and practical methods for change. During the weekend, we will apply SCT to participants’ organizational contexts, using a mix of inputs, small and large group work and role-plays. Our goal is to build an open learning system and to become a “high-performing team.” To make this a viable learning system we need 4 participants.

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Apply the SCT notions of Role, Goal and Context in an organizational setting
• Use the Person-as-a-System map to take up my functional role in an organization
• Use the SCT functional subgrouping method as a tool to integrate differences, make decisions and plan
• State the SCT theory underlying functional subgrouping
• Practice reducing ambiguity, redundancy and contradictions in the communication system
• Use the Force-field as a tool to identify behaviors that support or get in the way of goal achievement in a given context

Presentation Content

Agazarian’s (1997) theory of living human systems, with its systems-centered approach to group practice, represents a developed and comprehensive systems theory applied to groups, individuals and couples. The theory of living human systems has defined theoretical constructs and operational definitions that implement and test the theoretical hypotheses in its practice. This institute will apply the theory and methods to participants’ organizational contexts.

Supporting References

Davis, R. (2014). Working across organisational boundaries: Shifting from complaining and blaming to problem-solving. e-O&P Journal of the Association for Management Education and Development, 21(3), 22-37.

Gantt, S.P. (2013). Applying systems-centered theory (SCT) and methods in organizational contexts: Putting SCT to work. International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, 63(2), 234-258. doi: 10.1521/ijgp.2013.63.2.234

Gantt, S.P., & Agazarian, Y.M. (Eds.) (2005). SCT in action: Applying the systems-centered approach in organizations. Lincoln, NE: iUniverse. Reprint (2006). London, UK: Karnac Books.

Gantt, S.P., & Agazarian, Y.M. (2007). Phases of system development in organizational work groups: The systems-centered approach for intervening in context. Organisational & Social Dynamics, 7(2), 253-291.

O’Neill, R.M., Murphy, V., Mogle, J., MacKenzie, M.J., MacGregor, K.L., Pearson, M., & Parekh, M. (2013). Are systems-centered teams more collaborative, productive and creative? Journal of Team Performance Management, 19(3/4), 201-221. doi: 10.1108/TPM-04-2012-0015

Sundlin, A.L., & Sundlin, P. (2014). Taking up your role: How to shift between life and work without losing yourself. Cambridge, MA: Catalyst Communication Press.

Presenters

Rowena Davis, MSc. Rowena Davis, MSc, is an organizational consultant working with public, private and not-for-profit organizations in the UK and internationally. Her work combines coaching individuals and teams; strategic marketing and planning; mapping systems; and running SCT and SAVI trainings in the US and Europe. She is a licensed Systems-Centered Training practitioner, a certified SAVI trainer and a member of the Systems-Centered Training and Research Institute Board. She holds an MSc in Change Agent Skills & Strategies (Distinction) from the University of Surrey, a Dott. in Sociologia from the University of Trento, Italy, and a BSc (Econ) from the London School of Economics.

Sven-Erik Viskari, BA, Licensed Psychologist . Sven-Erik Viskari, BA, is a licensed psychologist and psychotherapist who also works with team building, group development and coaching of leaders. He holds a part-time position as an OD consultant with a company that provides occupational healthcare, and works in private practice with a mix of clinical and OD work. He is a licensed Systems-Centered Practitioner and was a member of the Board of the Systems-Centered Training and Research Institute from 2006 to 2017.

By undoing old survival roles and patterns of guilt and shame that constrain orientation, gender identity and sexual expression, we will explore emerging aspects of our sexual selves. We will build a systems framework to understand sexuality and use functional subgrouping to identify phases of the group's development. In alignment with SCT norms, members only share what they feel ready to share and intimate disclosures are not required for a successful workshop experience.

Prerequisite: Intermediate or advanced level or by application.

Application deadline: March 22

Please download, complete and return this application form

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Describe how to decrease restraining forces to the exploration of sexuality
• Practice exploring taboos around sexuality that typically lead to isolation and increase shame
• Employ methods of SCT to decrease anxiety, shame and guilt
• Apply the systems-centered method of functional subgrouping to increase interpersonal resonance and awareness of similarities
• Analyze role patterns that limit self expression of sexuality
• Practice systems-centered methods that increase self-acceptance and normalization of diverse and nuanced expressions of sexuality

Presentation Content

Agazarian’s (1997) theory of living human systems, with its systems-centered approach to group practice, represents a developed and comprehensive systems theory applied to groups, individuals and couples. The theory of living human systems has defined theoretical constructs and operational definitions that implement and test the theoretical hypotheses in its practice. The systems-centered approach to group and organizational work has been in the field for over 20 years, presented in approximately 30 articles in peer-reviewed professional journals. Its methods incorporate techniques linked to successful strategies for improvement in group and individual psychotherapy, for example, modifying cognitive distortions, increasing group cohesion, lowering scapegoating, and reducing somatic defenses. Regarding clinical approaches to sexuality, systems-centered methods are specifically useful for breaking down the isolation, anxiety, guilt and shame that often function to constrain client's sense of a positive sexual self identity and a feeling of place in the larger community.

Supporting References

Agazarian, Y.M. (1997). Systems-centered therapy for groups. New York, NY: Guilford Press. Re-printed in paperback (2004). London, UK: Karnac Books.

Lewis, M. (2005). Bridging emotion theory and neurobiology through dynamic systems modeling. Behavioral and Brain Sciences, 28(2), 169-194. doi: 10.1017/S0140525X0500004X

Fausto-Sterling, A., Garcia Coll, C., & Lamarre, M. (2012). Sexing the baby: Part 2 - Applying dynamic systems theory to the emergences of sex-related differences in infants and toddlers. Social Science & Medicine, 74(11), 1693-1702. doi: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2011.06.027

Presenters

Peter Bernhardt, MA, MFT. Peter Bernhardt, MFT, is in private practice and leads men's groups in Albany and San Francisco CA and leads workshops internationally.

Norma Safransky, MD. Norma Safransky, MD, is a board certified psychiatrist in private practice in Chapel Hill, NC. She is a licensed Systems-Centered Practitioner and runs SCT therapy groups. She has a Bachelor of Science degree from Duke University and a Doctorate of Medicine degree from the University of North Carolina (UNC). She completed her residency in Psychiatry at UNC.

Intermediate skills training shifts focus from work with oneself to work with others. This intensive 7 day training introduces the SCT protocols with an emphasis on the theoretical context within which the protocol is used, and the actual steps in each technical skill that make up the protocol. Participants will videotape their practice of each skill and lead a small task group reviewing videotaped sections with an eye on building the skill of force field development.

By application to assess your readiness for this training (see link below): Send to both Susan Beren (susanberen@gmail.com) and Madeline O'Carroll (madmoc1@gmail.com)

APPLICATION DEADLINE: February 25, 2018

7-day group, meets on Institute weekend and continues Mon - Fri mornings.

Note: Participation in intermediate level training requires actively receiving consultation from an SCT Licensed Practitioner. This is this first of the core Intermediate SCT trainings.

Please download, complete and return this application form

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Demonstrate ability to introduce functional subgrouping to a group
• Demonstrate ability to use SCT protocols for undoing distractions, anxiety, tension, depression, outrages, and role-locks
• Apply a basic understanding of the theoretical context for the use of SCT protocols
• Create a force field to analyze what helps or hinders the application of protocols
• Demonstrate ability to provide feedback based on facts, not opinions
• Demonstrate ability to lead a small task group

Presentation Content

Agazarian’s (1997) theory of living human systems, with its systems-centered approach to group practice, represents a developed and comprehensive systems theory applied to groups, individuals and couples. The theory of living human systems has defined theoretical constructs and operational definitions that function as hypotheses to test both the validity of the theory and the reliability of its practice. This theory and its methods are accepted among group practitioners as evidenced by SCTRI’s 2010 recognition for “Outstanding Contributions in Education and Training in the Field of Group Psychotherapy” awarded by the National Registry of Certified Group Psychotherapists. SCT methods are regularly cited or included in handbooks and reviews of group psychotherapy practice. There is also significant peer-reviewed published support for the theory and its practice, including articles in the International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, Group Dynamics, Small Group Research, Organizational Analysis, and Group Analysis.

Supporting References

Agazarian, Y.M. (1997). Systems-centered therapy for groups. New York, NY: Guilford Press. Re-printed in paperback (2004). London, UK: Karnac Books.

Agazarian, Y.M. (1999). Phases of development in the systems-centered group. Small Group Research, 30(1), 82-107. doi: 10.1177/104649649903000105

Agazarian, Y.M., & Byram, C. (2009). First build the system: The systems-centered approach to combined psychotherapy. GROUP: The Journal of the Eastern Group Psychotherapy Society, 33(2), 129-148.

Gantt, S.P. (1996). Defense analysis: Linking SCT theory and practice - cognitive defenses. SCT Journal: Systems-Centered Theory and Practice, 1, 35-40.

Presenters

Susan Beren, Ph.D.. Susan Beren, Ph.D., is a licensed clinical psychologist who has worked in multiple city hospitals and been in private practice in New York City for the last 19 years, doing therapy with individuals, couples and groups and providing supervision and consultation. Susan has taught, done research on and co-authored several papers on the multiple causes and treatment of eating disorders and obesity. She is a licensed Systems-Centered Training practitioner.

Madeline O'Carroll, MSc, PGDip, RMN, SFHEA. Madeline O'Carroll is a Licensed Systems-Centered Practitioner, a Senior Lecturer in Mental Health Nursing at City, University of London and a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy. She has worked in mental health for thirty years as a clinician and an educator. Madeline is a qualified teacher with extensive experience of developing and delivering education and training and she also runs therapy groups for people with psychosis.

This training is an ongoing event that confronts the hatred of authority, one’s own and others’. Alternating between training group practicum and review work, the program will focus on applying the Theory of Living Human Systems in exploring the issues of giving and taking authority. This training is by application only for SCTRI members who are committed to becoming a licensed SCT practitioner, who have completed all prerequisite intermediate training, and meet the criteria for group membership (see https://www.systemscentered.com/Training/The-SCT-Training-Curriculum for details). Joining this group means committing to twice yearly meetings for the duration of the group.

This is a closed group. 7-day group, meets on Institute weekend and continues Mon - Fri mornings.

Note: Participation in intermediate level training requires actively receiving consultation from an SCT Licensed Practitioner.

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Develop ability in shifting from person to member in a developing group in each of its phases of system development
• Utilize leadership and membership roles working in the context of a peer task-focused group
• Explore and weaken the restraining forces in shifting from person to member
• Explore hatred of authority
• Explore the role relationships with external authority and one’s internal authority
• Practice working in membership with leadership towards the goal of increasing awareness of the driving and restraining forces related to leadership effectiveness, both internal in relationship to the personality style, task/maintenance dimensions, and the effect of leadership behaviors on the group's membership, subgroups and the group-as-a-whole

Presentation Content

Agazarian’s (1997) theory of living human systems, with its systems-centered approach to group practice, represents a developed and comprehensive systems theory applied to groups, individuals and couples. The theory of living human systems has defined theoretical constructs and operational definitions that function as hypotheses to test both the validity of the theory and the reliability of its practice. This theory and its methods are accepted among group practitioners as evidenced by SCTRI’s 2010 recognition for “Outstanding Contributions in Education and Training in the Field of Group Psychotherapy” awarded by the National Registry of Certified Group Psychotherapists. SCT methods are regularly cited or included in handbooks and reviews of group psychotherapy practice. There is also significant peer-reviewed published support for the theory and its practice, including articles in the International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, Group Dynamics, Small Group Research, Organizational Analysis, and Group Analysis.

Supporting References

Agazarian, Y.M. (1997). Systems-centered therapy for groups. New York, NY: Guilford Press. Re-printed in paperback (2004). London, UK: Karnac Books.

Agazarian, Y.M., & Gantt, S.P. (2003). Phases of group development: Systems-centered hypotheses and their implications for research and practice. Group Dynamics: Theory, Research and Practice, 7(3), 238-252. doi: 10.1037/1089-2699.7.3.238

Agazarian, Y.M., & Gantt, S.P. (2005). The systems perspective. In S. Wheelan (Ed.), Handbook of group research and practice (pp. 187-200). Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage.

Brabender, V., & Fallon, A. (2008). Group development in practice: Guidance for clinicians and researchers on stages and dynamics of change. Washington, DC: American Psychological Association.

Moreno, J.K. (2007). Scapegoating in group psychotherapy. International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, 57(1), 93-104.

Presenters

Susan P. Gantt, Ph.D., CGP, ABPP, DFAGPA, FAPA. Susan P. Gantt, Ph.D., ABPP, CGP, DFAGPA, FAPA, is a psychologist in private practice in Atlanta and Emerita faculty at Emory University School of Medicine, Psychiatry department, where she taught and coordinated group psychotherapy training for 29 years. She is the Chair of the Systems-Centered Training and Research Institute, which was recognized with the 2010 Award for Outstanding Contributions in Education and Training in the Field of Group Psychotherapy by the National Registry of Certified Group Psychotherapists. She trains, supervises and consults in the practice of SCT in the US and Europe and leads ongoing training groups for therapists and consultants in Atlanta, San Francisco and the Netherlands. She has published numerous journal articles and co-authored the texts Autobiography of a Theory, SCT in Action, and Systems-Centered Therapy: Clinical Practice with Individuals, Families & Groups with Yvonne Agazarian. She co-edited the book The Interpersonal Neurobiology of Group Psychotherapy and Group Process with Bonnie Badenoch in 2013. She was awarded the 2011 Alonso Award for Excellence in Psychodynamic Group Psychotherapy by the Group Psychotherapy Foundation for her work in editing (with Paul Cox) the special issue of the International Journal of Group Psychotherapy on “Neurobiology and Interpersonal Systems: Groups, Couples and Beyond.”

Ray Haddock, MBChB, M.MedSc, FRCPsych. Ray Haddock, MBChB, M.MedSc, FRCPsych, Member of Institute of Group Analysis, Licensed Systems-Centered Practitioner. He qualified in medicine in 1982, trained in Psychiatry then in Psychotherapy in Leeds (UK). He has wide experience of leading SCT training groups and workshops in UK, Europe and the USA. He has practiced as a Consultant Medical Psychotherapist in the UK for over 20 years and has also had a number of management roles in the NHS, including service development and implementation of training programs for psychiatry trainees. He taught psychotherapy based on SCT to junior psychiatrists and psychotherapy trainees for over 20 years. Clinically he uses SCT in individual and group therapy and has developed a manual to support this work. He uses the Theory of Living Human Systems in day-to-day organizational work, consultation and leadership.

This task-focused training is an opportunity to observe a two-day foundation group through the first phases of system development, tracking group dynamics and phase while linking leader interventions to theory and methods.

Minimum membership criterion is Mentor Training experience.

By application only: email annie.maciver@homecall.co.uk

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Describe leader interventions in creating a working SCT group
• Discuss the leader's use of methods and techniques of SCT in relation to the group's movement through the early phases of development
• Create a force field of leader behaviors as driving or restraining forces toward the development of all system levels (M,SG,GAW)
• Discuss leader interventions and consequent behavioral data in relation to the Theory of Living Human Systems
• List 3 examples of member, subgroup and group-as-a-whole behaviors as reflections of phase of group development
• List 3 examples of changes in behaviors as members learn to move from person to member, to member of a subgroup and to the group-as-a-whole

Presentation Content

The systems-centered approach to group and organizational work has been in the field for over 20 years, presented in approximately 30 articles in peer-reviewed professional journals. Its methods incorporate techniques linked to successful strategies for improvement in group and individual psychotherapy, for example, modifying cognitive distortions, increasing group cohesion, lowering scapegoating, and reducing somatic defenses.

Supporting References

Agazarian, Y.M. (1997). Systems-centered therapy for groups. New York, NY: Guilford Press. Re-printed in paperback (2004). London, UK: Karnac Books.

Gantt, S.P., & Agazarian, Y.M. (Eds.) (2005). SCT in action: Applying the systems-centered approach in organizations. Lincoln, NE: iUniverse. Reprint (2006). London, UK: Karnac Books.

Agazarian, Y.M., & Gantt, S.P. (2005). The systems perspective. In S. Wheelan (Ed.), Handbook of group research and practice (pp. 187-200). Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage.

Presenters

Annie MacIver, MA, DipSW. Annie MacIver is a Social Worker who specialises in working with children and their families. Annie is Director of Family Operations for a large local authority in England and is engaged in applying systems-centred theory and methods to enhancing leadership capacity and capability in complex organisational contexts. She is a licensed Systems Centered Practitioner and Board Member.

A. Meigs Ross, M.Div., LCSW. The Rev. A. Meigs Ross, M.Div., LCSW, is a psychotherapist and consultant in private practice in New York City. She is also an adjunct professor and Clinical Pastoral Education Supervisor at Union Theological Seminary in New York and Jewish Theological Seminary. She is an Episcopal priest, a licensed systems-centered consultant and therapist SCTRI, a certified clinical pastoral educator with the Association for Clinical Pastoral Education, a certified chaplain with the Association for Professional Chaplains and a licensed Clinical Social Worker. Rev. Ross has served as the Manager of Pastoral Care and Education at New York Presbyterian Hospital the Director of Clinical Pastoral Education at the HealthCare Chaplaincy in New York and continues to serve as a consultant with New York Presbyterian Hospital and the Episcopal Church. Rev. Ross received a Master of Divinity from Union Theological Seminary and an MSW from New York University.

This training observes the Authority Issue Group to track group dynamics, phase of system development, communication patterns that support the phase, leadership interventions linking interventions to theory and group functioning. Goal: To learn through observation to collect data about the impact of leader interventions in each phase of development and, through experience, to collect data about system isomorphy.

Prerequisite: Completion of the Authority Issue Group.

This is a closed group. 7-day group, meets on Institute weekend and continues Mon - Fri mornings.

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Analyze SCT interventions and relate to driving and restraining forces in the phases of system development
• Identify a predictable hierarchy of defense modification
• Describe observations and apply experience to a Theory of Living Human Systems and systems-centered practice
• Compare isomorphy between group being observed and observing group
• Assess effectiveness of functional subgrouping in advanced training group (Authority Issue Group)
• Demonstrate development of advanced training skills in the training group context

Presentation Content

Learning methods: Systems-centered practice and training was developed by Yvonne Agazarian over a number of decades. This training is offered from foundation level to licensing and more recently the Systems-Centered Training and Research Institute (SCTRI) has pioneered advanced training for trainers and leaders, a training group for advanced practitioners who who wish to enhance their skills as trainers. This training is a twice yearly training observing the training and development of the Authority Issue Group (AIG). SCTRI was presented with the 2010 Award for Outstanding Contributions in Education and Training in the Field of Group Psychotherapy by The National Registry of Certified Group Psychotherapists. The training consists of observation of the AIG Group training group led by Susan Gantt and Ray Haddock. Discussion and exploration, using the observations to provide data for tracking group dynamics, phase of system development, communication patterns that support the phase, leadership interventions to member, subgroup and group-as-a-whole, while linking interventions to theory and group functioning. Skills practice: using the group to practice and build on skills of giving and taking authority in training roles.

Supporting References

Agazarian, Y.M. (1996). An up-to-date guide to the theory, constructs and hypotheses of a theory of living human systems and its systems-centered practice. SCT Journal: Systems-Centered Theory and Practice, 1, 3-12.

Brabender, V., & Fallon, A. (2009). Group development in practice. Washington, DC: American Psychological Association.

Agazarian, Y.M. (1997). Systems-centered therapy for groups. New York, NY: Guilford Press. Re-printed in paperback (2004). London, UK: Karnac Books.

Gantt, S.P., & Agazarian, Y.M. (Eds.) (2005). SCT in action: Applying the systems-centered approach in organizations. Lincoln, NE: iUniverse. Reprint (2006). London, UK: Karnac Books.

Presenters

Dorothy Gibbons, MSS, LCSW. Dorothy Gibbons, MSS, LCSW, is a licensed Systems-Centered Practitioner. She is in private practice in Philadelphia, PA. She works with individuals, groups, and couples. She also works as an organizational consultant to a social service agency in Philadelphia. Ms. Gibbons is the former Director of the Adolescent Sex Offender Unit at the Joseph J. Peters Institute in Philadelphia and has extensive experience working with both victims and offenders of sexual abuse. She is on the Board of Directors of the Systems-Centered Training and Research Institute. She is also a graduate of the Gestalt Therapy Training.

Juliet Koprowska, MSW. Juliet Koprowska, MSW, Diploma in Counselling, has extensive experience of systems-centered training at an advanced level, most recently as a member of the group observing the last Authority Issue/Licensing Group. She is Senior Lecturer in Social Work at the University of York where her main roles are teaching qualifying and registered social workers. Her areas of expertise are communication, family work, group work, and field education. She researches communication in social work practice and is author of Communication and Interpersonal Skills in Social Work (4th edition). London: Sage Learning Matters, a book widely used on social work programmes in the UK. She organises the annual SCT event held n York, England.

Sunday 5:05-6:35; Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 4:20-5:50

This 90-minute conference-as-a-whole practicum starts the conference on Sunday evening and meets at the end of the day on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday to explore the conference experience using functional subgrouping.

The conference starts on Sunday evening with the first meeting of the Large Group. These four Large Group meetings are open to the entire conference community and demonstrate the application of SCT methods and techniques in the large group setting. The dynamics and potential of large group are crucial to our understanding of social forces at a different level from the more easily accessible family and small group setting. These forces are more similar to those operating in larger social systems, and therefore our understanding of how to relate to these larger contexts is an essential skill for social work and other social change advocates and professionals.

Note: You must attend all four days of Large Group in order to earn CE credits for Large Group.

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Describe the unique challenge of relating to the large group context
• Apply skill in relating to the large group context in a way that increases the potential to include (rather than exclude) diversities
• Demonstrate a practical understanding of the unique challenge of relating to the large group context
• Practice using functional subgrouping to recognize and integrate differences instead of ignoring or scapegoating them
• Describe one driving and one restraining force to large group functioning that I observed

Presentation Content

Agazarian’s (1997) theory of living human systems, with its systems-centered approach to group practice, represents a developed and comprehensive systems theory applied to groups, individuals and couples. The theory of living human systems has defined theoretical constructs and operational definitions that implement and test the theoretical hypotheses in its practice. This theory and its methods are accepted among group practitioners as evidenced by SCTRI’s 2010 recognition for “Outstanding Contributions in Education and Training in the Field of Group Psychotherapy” awarded by the National Registry of Certified Group Psychotherapists. SCT methods are regularly cited or included in handbooks and reviews of group psychotherapy practice. There is also significant peer-reviewed published support for the theory and its practice, including articles in the International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, Group Dynamics, Small Group Research, Organizational Analysis, and Group Analysis.

Supporting References

Agazarian, Y.M. (1997). Systems-centered therapy for groups. New York, NY: Guilford Press. Re-printed in paperback (2004). London, UK: Karnac Books.

Agazarian, Y.M. (1999). Phases of development in the systems-centered group. Small Group Research, 30(1), 82-107. doi: 10.1177/104649649903000105

Agazarian, Y.M., & Gantt, S.P. (2005). The systems perspective. In S. Wheelan (Ed.), Handbook of group research and practice (pp. 187-200). Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage.

Brabender, V., & Fallon, A. (2009). Group development in practice. Washington, DC: American Psychological Association.

Presenters

Claudia Byram, Ph.D., CGP. Claudia Byram, Ph.D., CGP, is a licensed Systems-Centered Practitioner with a clinical practice in Philadelphia. She leads Systems-Centered training events, as well as communications training and consultation in the SAVI (System for Analyzing Verbal Interaction) model. She has worked since 1980 as a clinician and trainer, with a doctorate in developmental and clinical psychology from Bryn Mawr College. She began work with Yvonne Agazarian in the early 80s, shifting from psychoanalytic practice toward systems as systems-centered therapy developed.

Frances B. Carter, MSS, LSW. Frances Carter, MSS, LSW, CGP, is a Licensed Social Worker living and working in the Philadelphia area. She maintains a clinical and consulting practice working with individuals, couples, groups and organizations. Fran is a founding member of the Systems-Centered Training and Research Institute, and a Board Member and System Mentor. She continues to be interested in the development of training, curriculum and research and has contributed her time to these work groups within SCTRI. She is a licensed Systems-Centered Practitioner and a senior trainer, leading workshops, ongoing training and consultation groups and intensive training blocks throughout the US and Europe. She is also a partner and Senior trainer in SAVI Communications and the SAVI Network where she works with others to develop training in the SAVI approach to communication.

Susan P. Gantt, Ph.D., ABPP, CGP, DFAGPA, FAPA. Susan P. Gantt, Ph.D., ABPP, CGP, DFAGPA, FAPA, is a psychologist in private practice in Atlanta and Emerita faculty at Emory University School of Medicine, Psychiatry department, where she taught and coordinated group psychotherapy training for 29 years. She is the Chair of the Systems-Centered Training and Research Institute, which was recognized with the 2010 Award for Outstanding Contributions in Education and Training in the Field of Group Psychotherapy by the National Registry of Certified Group Psychotherapists. She trains, supervises and consults in the practice of SCT in the US and Europe and leads ongoing training groups for therapists and consultants in Atlanta, San Francisco and the Netherlands. She has published numerous journal articles and co-authored the texts Autobiography of a Theory, SCT in Action, and Systems-Centered Therapy: Clinical Practice with Individuals, Families & Groups with Yvonne Agazarian. She co-edited the book The Interpersonal Neurobiology of Group Psychotherapy and Group Process with Bonnie Badenoch in 2013. She was awarded the 2011 Alonso Award for Excellence in Psychodynamic Group Psychotherapy by the Group Psychotherapy Foundation for her work in editing (with Paul Cox) the special issue of the International Journal of Group Psychotherapy on “Neurobiology and Interpersonal Systems: Groups, Couples and Beyond.”

Ray Haddock, MBChB, M.MedSc, FRCPsych. Ray Haddock, MBChB, M.MedSc, FRCPsych, Member of Institute of Group Analysis, Licensed Systems-Centered Practitioner. He qualified in medicine in 1982, trained in Psychiatry then in Psychotherapy in Leeds (UK). He has wide experience of leading SCT training groups and workshops in UK, Europe and the USA. He has practiced as a Consultant Medical Psychotherapist in the UK for over 20 years and has also had a number of management roles in the NHS, including service development and implementation of training programs for psychiatry trainees. He taught psychotherapy based on SCT to junior psychiatrists and psychotherapy trainees for over 20 years. Clinically he uses SCT in individual and group therapy and has developed a manual to support this work. He uses the Theory of Living Human Systems in day-to-day organizational work, consultation and leadership.

In this five-day experiential training, members learn to create a systems-centered (SCT) environment and to facilitate group development through the use of functional subgrouping, the signature method of SCT. Members participate in the sequential modification of group defenses that allows development of the system’s capacity for solving problems and applying commonsense to everyday conflicts.

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Apply the skill of functional subgrouping to contain differences necessary for the group as resources for growth, as an alternative to stereotyped subgrouping that occurs spontaneously in response to differences and personal defenses
• Apply the skill of exploring experience in the here-and-now as differentiated from the feelings generated by familiar cognitive misconstructions of reality
• Demonstrate skills for reducing anxiety
• Demonstrate skills for reducing tension
• Demonstrate skills for reducing depression and outrage
• Practice identifying person-as-a-system survivor roles and shifting to curiosity and membership

Presentation Content

The systems-centered approach to group and organizational work has been in the field for over 20 years, presented in approximately 30 articles in peer-reviewed professional journals, in addition to full length manuscripts and book chapters. Ongoing research of systems-centered methods has and continues to establish that this unique approach is linked to success such as improvement in group and individual psychotherapy; increasing group cohesion; lowering scapegoating; and fostering team cooperation, productivity and creativity.

Supporting References

Agazarian, Y.M. (1997). Systems-centered therapy for groups. New York, NY: Guilford Press. Re-printed in paperback (2004). London, UK: Karnac Books.

Agazarian, Y.M. (2001). A systems-centered approach for inpatient group psychotherapy. London, UK & Philadelphia, PA: Jessica Kingsley.

Agazarian, Y.M., & Gantt, S.P. (2003). Phases of group development: Systems-centered hypotheses and their implications for research and practice. Group Dynamics: Theory, Research and Practice, 7(3), 238-252. doi: 10.1037/1089-2699.7.3.238

O’Neill, R.M., Murphy, V., Mogle, J., MacKenzie, M.J., MacGregor, K.L., Pearson, M., & Parekh, M. (2013). Are systems-centered teams more collaborative, productive and creative? Journal of Team Performance Management, 19(3/4), 201-221.doi: 10.1108/TPM-04-2012-0015

Presenters

Richard O’Neill, Ph.D., FAClinP, CGP, ABPP. Rich O’Neill, Ph.D., FAClinP, CGP, is Professor and Director of SCT Training at the State University of New York-Upstate Medical University. He is a founding member of SCTRI and its Board of Directors. Rich is also SCTRI Research Director Emeritus and has numerous scientific publications, including several on SCT and functional subgrouping. He is a licensed SCT consultant who specializes in SCT supervision, training and therapy for individuals, partners and groups, and presents SCT on the radio and YouTube in his "Checkup from the Neckup" productions.

Rowena Davis, MSc. Rowena Davis, MSc, is an organizational consultant working with public, private and not-for-profit organizations in the UK and internationally. Her work combines coaching individuals and teams; strategic marketing and planning; mapping systems; and running SCT and SAVI trainings in the US and Europe. She is a licensed Systems-Centered Training practitioner, a certified SAVI trainer and a member of the Systems-Centered Training and Research Institute Board. She holds an MSc in Change Agent Skills & Strategies (Distinction) from the University of Surrey, a Dott. in Sociologia from the University of Trento, Italy, and a BSc (Econ) from the London School of Economics. Rowena is based in London.

Participants will use SCT methods to explore current experience and reduce barriers to taking up member role. They will build capacity to organize energy, self-correct and move toward system goals. Please assess your readiness for this Intermediate level training by completing the Application Form below, due March 16 2018.

Please download, complete and return this application form

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Demonstrate member behaviors that contribute to building a systems-centered group that explores current experiences
• State specific behaviors that are driving forces for maintaining member role
• Discriminate (as evidenced by naming) different behavioral outputs from one's inner person roles (survivor and explorer) versus inter-person roles (a.k.a. member roles)
• State at least 2 restraining forces to taking up membership (functional inter-person roles) in an experiential training group context
• Assess how one's own behaviors can be a driving or restraining force towards systems goals
• Identify behavioral triggers that induce role-reactions in oneself

Presentation Content

The systems-centered approach to group and organizational work has been in the field for over 15 years, presented in approximately 30 articles in peer reviewed professional journals. Its methods incorporate techniques linked to successful strategies for improvement in group and individual psychotherapy, for example, modifying cognitive distortions, increasing group cohesion, lowering scapegoating, and reducing somatic defenses.

Supporting References

Agazarian, Y.M. (1997). Systems-centered therapy for groups. New York, NY: Guilford Press. Re-printed in paperback (2004). London, UK: Karnac Books.

Agazarian, Y.M., & Gantt, S.P. (2000). Autobiography of a theory: Developing a theory of living human systems and its systems-centered practice. London, UK: Jessica Kingsley.

Gantt, S.P., & Agazarian, Y.M. (Eds.) (2005). SCT in action: Applying the systems-centered approach in organizations. Lincoln, NE: iUniverse. Reprint (2006). London, UK: Karnac Books.

O’Neill, R.M., & Constantino, M.J. (2008). Systems-centered training groups’ process and outcome: A comparison with AGPA institute groups. International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, 58(1), 77-102. doi: 10.1521/ijgp.2008.58.1.77

Presenters

Mike Maher, MA, PGCE. Mike Maher, MA, PGCE, is a psychotherapist, trainer and organisational consultant. He is a Licensed SCT Practitioner and Director of SCTRI and leads two ongoing SCT training groups. He was Deputy Director in a Therapeutic Community and subsequently he has developed a specialism in working with staff who work with client groups – adolescents and adults - characterised by their challenging natures. He has written papers and book chapters in working with staff groups, organisational issues in mental health reform, managing self-harm behaviours and other subjects, and has presented at many national and international conferences.

Nina Klebanoff, Ed.M., LCSW, CGP. Nina Klebanoff, Ed.M., LCSW, CGP, Licensed SCT practitioner, has been a psychotherapist for thirty years. Nina works in Manhattan with individuals, groups, couples and couples groups. In addition she leads an ongoing SCT training group. Nina also does organizational consulting and ongoing staff development and individual consultations for psychotherapists and OD professionals. Nina specializes in working with creative artists and therapists. She has taught group psychotherapy as an adjunct faculty at NYU School of Social Work and is particularly interested in training and consultation groups. She is a member of the SCTRI Board of Directors in the role as Treasurer and is developing workshops for therapists in dealing with financial issues that have to do with maintaining a practice as well as the issues that directly impact the therapeutic relationship.

Advanced members apply the Theory of Living Human Systems (TLHS) and SCT methods to build and develop a systems-centered group context within which they can explore intimacy phase roles that impact the capacity for member role in the group and the conference-as-a-whole.

Prerequisite: Completion of Authority Issue Group, active membership in SCTRI. If not currently in a training context, please contact trainers for permission.

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Apply the concept of a member role to practice shifting from one's personal experience to one's experience in a larger context
• Use the method of functional subgrouping to test the hypothesis that discrimination and intergration of difference contributes to survival, development and transformation
• Discuss the similarities and differences in experience at different system levels: person, member, subgroup and group-as-a-whole
• Identify and reduce the restraining forces appropriate to the phase of development
• Articulate fresh ways of taking up membership by exploring and reducing stereotyped habits of membership
• Discover and discuss the function of the "advanced" group in the system-as-a-whole

Presentation Content

Systems-centered training has been widely accepted in group psychotherapy and organizational development contexts. Its methods link to conditions that correlate with successful outcomes in group work - functional subgrouping increases group cohesion and lowers scapegoating.

Supporting References

Agazarian, Y.M., & Gantt, S.P. (2005). The systems perspective. In S. Wheelan (Ed.), Handbook of group research and practice (pp. 187-200). Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage.

Agazarian, Y.M., & Gantt, S.P. (2003). Phases of group development: Systems-centered hypotheses and their implications for research and practice. Group Dynamics: Theory, Research and Practice, 7(3),238-252.

Agazarian, Y.M. (1997). Systems-centered therapy for groups. New York, NY: Guilford Press. Re-printed in paperback (2004). London, UK: Karnac Books.

Gantt, S.P., & Agazarian, Y.M. (2004). Systems-centered emotional intelligence: Beyond individual systems to organizational systems. Organizational Analysis, 12(2), 147-169.

Presenters

Frances Carter, MSS, LSW, CGP. Frances Carter, MSS, LSW, CGP, is a Licensed Social Worker, living and working in the Philadelphia area. She maintains a clinical and consulting practice working with individuals, couples, groups and organizations. Fran is a founding member of Systems-Centered Training and Research Institute, a current Board Member and System Mentor. She is a licensed Systems-Centered Practitioner and a senior trainer, leading workshops, ongoing training and consultation groups and intensive training blocks throughout the US and Europe. She is also a principal in SAVI Communications and the SAVI Network where she works with others to develop training in the SAVI approach to communication.

Sven-Erik Viskari, BA. Sven-Erik Viskari is a licensed psychologist and psychotherapist who also works with team building, group development and coaching of leaders. He holds a position as OD consultant on part time with a company that provides occupational healthcare, and works in private practice with a mix of clinical and OD work. He is also a licensed Systems-Centered Practitioner and a member of the Board of the Systems-Centered Training and Research Institute.

Functional subgrouping is the core method used in SCT to implement the theory statement that all living human systems survive, develop and transform by discriminating and integrating differences in the apparently similar and similarities in the apparently different. This workshop will introduce and practice the behaviors that support functional subgrouping.

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• State one goal of functional subgrouping
• Apply two behaviors that support functional subgrouping
• Describe one impact functional subgrouping has on the communication climate

Presentation Content

The systems-centered approach to group and organizational work has been in the field for over 20 years, presented in approximately 30 articles in peer-reviewed professional journals. Functional subgrouping has been shown to increase group cohesion and lower scapegoating. Developing a functional subgroup requires a set of verbal behaviors/skills which, once learned, facilitate exploration and conflict resolution in any context. Joining with similarities includes identifying authentic resonance within oneself, matching or slightly increasing the intensity of affect, adding new bits to build the subgroup without bringing in too big a difference.

Supporting References

Agazarian, Y.M. (1997). Systems-centered therapy for groups. New York, NY: Guilford Press. Re-printed in paperback (2004). London, UK: Karnac Books.

Gantt, S.P., & Adams, J.M. (2010). Systems-centered training for therapists: Beyond stereotyping to integrating diversities into the change process. Women & Therapy, 33(1), 101-120. doi: 10.1080/02703140903404812

O’Neill, R.M., & Constantino, M.J. (2008). Systems-centered training groups’ process and outcome: A comparison with AGPA institute groups. International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, 58(1), 77-102. doi: 10.1521/ijgp.2008.58.1.77

Presenters

Dayne Narretta, LCSW, BCD, CGP. Dayne Narretta, LCSW, CGP, BCD is in Private Practice in Baton Rouge, LA. She has been facilitating groups since 1992. She has done her group training through Systems Centered Training Research Institute , American Group Psychotherapy Association and its affiliates. She was introduced to Systems- Centered group work in 2004 and continues her training in the Systems-Centered Training and Research Institute. Dayne is currently on the board for American Group Psychotherapy Association and is a co-director for the Systems-centered Annual Conference. She is a past president of Louisiana Group Psychotherapy Society and has been a member of a Systems-Centered training group since 2008.

Introduction to a Theory of Living Human Systems which defines a hierarchy of isomorphic systems that are self-organizing, goal-directed and self-correcting.

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Describe how the theory of Living Human Systems (TLHS) introduces an innovative approach to the existing person-centered, member-centered, leader-centered and group-as-a-whole approaches currently used in the field of psychology
• Define the major constructs of System Hierarchy, System Isomorphy and person-as-a-system
• Describe the SCT method of Functional Subgrouping and use it to enable the discrimination and integration of differences as an alternative to ignoring or scapegoating them

Presentation Content

Agazarian’s (1997) theory of living human systems, with its systems-centered approach to group practice, represents a developed and comprehensive systems theory applied to groups, individuals and couples. The theory of living human systems has defined theoretical constructs and operational definitions that implement and test the theoretical hypotheses in its practice. This theory and its methods are accepted among group practitioners as evidenced by SCTRI’s 2010 recognition for “Outstanding Contributions in Education and Training in the Field of Group Psychotherapy” awarded by the National Registry of Certified Group Psychotherapists. SCT methods are regularly cited or included in handbooks and reviews of group psychotherapy practice. There is also significant peer-reviewed published support for the theory and its practice, including articles in the International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, Group Dynamics, Small Group Research, Organizational Analysis, and Group Analysis.

Supporting References

Agazarian, Y.M. (1997). Systems-centered therapy for groups. New York, NY: Guilford Press. Re-printed in paperback (2004). London, UK: Karnac Books.

Brabender, V. (1997). Chaos and order in the psychotherapy group. In F. Masterpasha, & P. Perna (Eds.), The psychological meaning of chaos (pp. 225-253). Washington, DC: American Psychological Association.

Brabender, V., & Fallon, A. (2009). Group development in practice. Washington, DC: American Psychological Association.

Gantt, S.P., & Hopper, E. (2008). Two perspectives on a trauma in a training group: The systems-centered approach and the theory of incohesion (part II). Group Analysis, 41(2), 123-139. doi: 10.1177/0533316408089879

Presenters

Ray Haddock, MBChB, M.MedSc, FRCPsych. Qualified in medicine in 1982, trained in Psychiatry then in Psychotherapy in Leeds (UK). Wide experience of leading SCT training groups and workshops in UK, Europe and the USA. Practices part time as a Consultant Medical Psychotherapist in the UK and works in independent practice as a Systems-Centered Practitioner in training and consultancy. Provision of therapy with complex patient problems in the NHS for over 25 years. Member of the board of the Systems-Centered Training and Research Institute and the International Association of Group Psychotherapy and Group Processes. Lead editor of Theory and Applications section of SCT Newsletter. Member of SCTRI board theory group and organizing group.

SCT identifies three sources of anxiety. These will be introduced and normalized at the same time as recognizing that anxiety is often a barrier between the individual and authentic experience. The workshop will enable people to consider the discrimination between anxiety and sitting at the edge of the unknown.

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• List the three sources of anxiety identified in SCT
• Describe the discrimination between mind reads and negative predictions
• Describe the discrimination between anxiety that defends against experience and anxiety at the edge of the unknown

Presentation Content

Agazarian’s (1997) theory of living human systems, with its systems-centered approach to group practice, represents a developed and comprehensive systems theory applied to groups, individuals and couples. The theory of living human systems has defined theoretical constructs and operational definitions that implement and test the theoretical hypotheses in its practice. This theory and its methods are accepted among group practitioners as evidenced by SCTRI’s 2010 recognition for “Outstanding Contributions in Education and Training in the Field of Group Psychotherapy” awarded by the National Registry of Certified Group Psychotherapists. SCT methods are regularly cited or included in handbooks and reviews of group psychotherapy practice. There is also significant peer-reviewed published support for the theory and its practice, including articles in the International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, Group Dynamics, Small Group Research, Organizational Analysis, and Group Analysis. The systems-centered approach to group and organizational work has been in the field for over 20 years, presented in approximately 30 articles in peer-reviewed professional journals. Its methods incorporate techniques linked to successful strategies for improvement in group and individual psychotherapy, for example, modifying cognitive distortions, increasing group cohesion, lowering scapegoating, and reducing somatic defenses.

Supporting References

Agazarian, Y.M. (1997). Systems-centered therapy for groups. New York, NY: Guilford Press. Re-printed in paperback (2004). London, UK: Karnac Books.

Agazarian, Y.M. (1999). Phases of development in the systems-centered group. Small Group Research, 30(1), 82-107. doi: 10.1177/104649649903000105

Agazarian, Y.M. (2002). A systems-centered approach to individual and group psychotherapy. In L. Vandecreek, & T. Jackson (Eds.), Innovations in clinical practice: A source book, Vol. 20 (pp. 223-240). Sarasota, FL: Professional Resource Press.

Presenters

Mike Maher, MA, PGCE. Mike Maher, MA, PGCE, is a psychotherapist, trainer and organisational consultant. He is a Licensed SCT Practitioner and Director of SCTRI and leads an ongoing SCT training group. He was Deputy Director in a Therapeutic Community and subsequently he has developed a specialism in working with staff who work with client groups - adolescents and adults - characterised by their challenging natures. He has written papers and book chapters in working with staff groups, organisational issues in mental health reform, managing self-harm behaviours and other subjects, and has presented at many national and international conferences.

Learning to see systems and not just people is the heart of applying systems thinking. Participants will explore how to apply the constructs of the theory of living human systems in looking at living human systems as small as a person and as big as the world.

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• State the connection between theory (TLHS) and practice (SCT)
• Practice thinking systems and not just people
• Describe and diagram the essential system variables identified in a theory of living human systems

Presentation Content

Agazarian’s (1997) theory of living human systems, with its systems-centered approach to group practice, represents a developed and comprehensive systems theory applied to groups, individuals and couples. The theory of living human systems has defined theoretical constructs and operational definitions that function as hypotheses to test both the validity of the theory and the reliability of its practice. This theory and its methods are accepted among group practitioners as evidenced by SCTRI’s 2010 recognition for “Outstanding Contributions in Education and Training in the Field of Group Psychotherapy” awarded by the National Registry of Certified Group Psychotherapists. SCT methods are regularly cited or included in handbooks and reviews of group psychotherapy practice. There is also significant peer-reviewed published support for the theory and its practice, including articles in the International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, Group Dynamics, Small Group Research, Organizational Analysis, and Group Analysis.

Supporting References

Agazarian, Y.M. (1994). The phases of development and the systems-centered group. In M. Pines, & V. Schermer (Eds.), Ring of fire: Primitive object relations and affect in group psychotherapy (pp. 36-85). London, UK: Routledge, Chapman & Hall.

Agazarian, Y.M. (1997). Systems-centered therapy for groups. New York, NY: Guilford Press. Re-printed in paperback (2004). London, UK: Karnac Books.

Agazarian, Y.M. (1999). Phases of development in the systems-centered group. Small Group Research, 30(1), 82-107.

Agazarian, Y.M., & Gantt, S.P. (2003). Phases of group development: Systems-centered hypotheses and their implications for research and practice. Group Dynamics: Theory, Research and Practice, 7(3), 238-252.

Gantt, S.P., & Agazarian, Y.M. (2007). Phases of system development in organizational work groups: The systems-centered approach for intervening in context. Organisational & Social Dynamics, 7(2), 253-291.

Presenters

Susan P. Gantt, Ph.D., CGP, ABPP, DFAGPA, FAPA. Susan P. Gantt, Ph.D., ABPP, CGP, DFAGPA, FAPA, is a psychologist in private practice in Atlanta and Emerita faculty at Emory University School of Medicine, Psychiatry department, where she taught and coordinated group psychotherapy training for 29 years. She is the Chair of the Systems-Centered Training and Research Institute, which was recognized with the 2010 Award for Outstanding Contributions in Education and Training in the Field of Group Psychotherapy by the National Registry of Certified Group Psychotherapists. She trains, supervises and consults in the practice of SCT in the US and Europe and leads ongoing training groups for therapists and consultants in Atlanta, San Francisco and the Netherlands. She has published numerous journal articles and co-authored the texts Autobiography of a Theory, SCT in Action, and Systems-Centered Therapy: Clinical Practice with Individuals, Families & Groups with Yvonne Agazarian. She co-edited the book The Interpersonal Neurobiology of Group Psychotherapy and Group Process with Bonnie Badenoch in 2013. She was awarded the 2011 Alonso Award for Excellence in Psychodynamic Group Psychotherapy by the Group Psychotherapy Foundation for her work in editing (with Paul Cox) the special issue of the International Journal of Group Psychotherapy on “Neurobiology and Interpersonal Systems: Groups, Couples and Beyond.”

Developing awareness of the fork-in-the-road between explaining and exploring is a discrimination that opens us to the possibility of change. Explaining keeps us focused on what we already know, and exploring moves us into the unknown where something new can emerge. Using the fork-in-the-road we will explore experience at the edge of the unknown as well as the information contained within our tendency to explain.

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Describe the fork-in-the-road as a method to vector energy
• Apply explaining versus exploring as a fork-in-the-road
• Practice using the fork-in-the road method

Presentation Content

Through didactic and experiential learning, this workshop will provide initial training to participants in understanding and using the systems-centered method of vectoring (specifically the fork-in-the-road intervention). The systems-centered approach has been in the field of group psychotherapy for over 20 years. Approximately 30 articles in peer-reviewed journals and multiple books in the fields of psychotherapy and organizational-development have been published. The systems-centered approach has been studied and linked to successful strategies for increasing the effectiveness of leadership interventions in individual and group psychotherapy and in organisational contexts.

Supporting References

Agazarian, Y.M. (1997). Systems-centered therapy for groups. New York, NY: Guilford. Re-printed in paperback (2004). London, UK: Karnac Books.

Gantt, S.P., & Agazarian, Y.M. (Eds.) (2005). SCT in action: Applying the systems-centered approach in organizations. Lincoln, NE: iUniverse. Reprint (2006). London, UK: Karnac Books.

Gantt, S.P., & Agazarian, Y.M. (Eds.) (2006). Systems-centered therapy: In clinical practice with individuals, families and groups. Livermore, CA: WingSpan Press. Reprint (2011). London, UK: Karnac Books.

Presenters

Rick Campa, Ph.D.. Rick Campa, Ph.D. is a licensed psychologist in private practice in Austin, Texas. Rick earned his Ph.D. in clinical psychology at Boston University in 1991 and trained at McLean Hospital in Belmont, Massachusetts, for his internship and for an additional year as a post-doctorate fellow. In 1991, he moved to Texas to serve as director of the Psychiatric Intensive Care Unit at the San Antonio State Hospital, and later moved to Austin open private practice. Rick currently divides his time between the roles of full-time husband and father of four, psychotherapist in private practice working with individuals, couples, and groups, and psychological consult to the State of Texas making determinations for the federal Social Security Disability program. Rick began studying System Centered training in 1998 and is currently a licensed Systems-Centered practitioner.

This Drop-In offers the opportunity to learn more about one of the SCT methods for consultation and the the theoretical underpinnings behind the SCT model. Participants will have the opportunity to practice and explore their experiences using this exercise and method.

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Describe the theoretical underpinnings of this consultation method
• Practice the protocol of the method
• Describe how the consultation skill contributes to system development

Presentation Content

Agazarian’s (1997) theory of living human systems, with its systems-centered approach to group practice, represents a developed and comprehensive systems theory applied to groups, individuals and couples. The theory of living human systems has defined theoretical constructs and operational definitions that implement and test the theoretical hypotheses in its practice. There is also significant peer-reviewed published support for the theory and its practice, including articles in the International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, Group Dynamics, Small Group Research, Organizational Analysis, and Group Analysis.

Supporting References

Agazarian, Y.M. (1997). Systems-centered therapy for groups. New York, NY: Guilford Press. Re-printed in paperback (2004). London, UK: Karnac Books.

Agazarian, Y.M. (1999). Phases of development in the systems-centered group. Small Group Research, 30(1), 82-107. doi: 10.1177/104649649903000105

Agazarian, Y.M. (2002). A systems-centered approach to individual and group psychotherapy. In L. Vandecreek, & T. Jackson (Eds.), Innovations in clinical practice: A source book, Vol. 20 (pp. 223-240). Sarasota, FL: Professional Resource Press.

Presenters

Sven-Erik Viskari, BA, Licensed Psychologist. Sven-Erik Viskari, BA, is a licensed psychologist and psychotherapist who also works with team building, group development and coaching of leaders. He holds a position as OD consultant on part time with a company that provides occupational healthcare, and works in private practice with a mix of clinical and OD work. He is also a licensed Systems-Centered Practitioner and has been a member of the Board of the Systems-Centered Training and Research Institute 2006-2017.

This Drop-In group offers the opportunity to learn more about the theory behind the SCT distraction exercise. Participants will have the opportunity to practice and explore their experiences with the distraction exercise as well.

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Describe the theoretical underpinnings of the distraction exercise
• Practice the protocol of the distraction exercise
• Describe how the distraction exercise contributes to building a system

Presentation Content

Agazarian’s (1997) theory of living human systems, with its systems-centered approach to group practice, represents a developed and comprehensive systems theory applied to groups, individuals and couples. The theory of living human systems has defined theoretical constructs and operational definitions that implement and test the theoretical hypotheses in its practice. There is also significant peer-reviewed published support for the theory and its practice, including articles in the International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, Group Dynamics, Small Group Research, Organizational Analysis, and Group Analysis.

Supporting References

Agazarian, Y.M. (1997). Systems-centered therapy for groups. New York, NY: Guilford Press. Re-printed in paperback (2004). London, UK: Karnac Books.

Agazarian, Y.M. (1999). Phases of development in the systems-centered group. Small Group Research, 30(1), 82-107. doi: 10.1177/104649649903000105

Agazarian, Y.M. (2002). A systems-centered approach to individual and group psychotherapy. In L. Vandecreek, & T. Jackson (Eds.), Innovations in clinical practice: A source book, Vol. 20 (pp. 223-240). Sarasota, FL: Professional Resource Press.

Presenters

Åsa Bergquist Håål, MA. Åsa Bergquist Håål, MA, has since 2002 worked with organizations development, designing and facilitating business transformation programs, leading workshops and training groups. She has developed a parenting program and a train the trainer program in the context of drug prevention. She is a member of the SCT Licensing Group VII.

This workshop introduces the theory behind the creation of the SAVI system for analyzing verbal interaction. The SAVI grid is a map for understanding that HOW we say what we say determines how likely it is that the information in your communication will get across. With SAVI, it is assumed that it is the pattern of verbal interaction that determines the probability, not a single input or an individual's intention.

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Identify active verbal behaviors defining communications
• Describe the SAVI grid as a form in which different kinds of communication behaviors can be identified
• Give examples of verbal behaviors serving as either driving or restraining forces to the transfer of the information contained within the communication

Presentation Content

Behavioral observation systems are well established in the research and clinical fields. This particular model, System for Analyzing Verbal Interaction, developed by Yvonne Agazarian and Anita Simon, has been used for research in 4 dissertations, reported as a group process tool in 4 peer reviewed publications, and is currently used for data collection in 3 as yet unpublished ongoing studies. It has a sound theoretical base in both field theory (Kurt Lewin) and information theory (Shannon), and builds on the work of Bales and others who developed observation systems to study classroom interactions.

Supporting References

Agazarian, Y.M., & Gantt, S.P. (2000). Autobiography of a theory: Developing a theory of living human systems and its systems-centered practice. London, UK: Jessica Kingsley.

Simon A., & Agazarian, Y.M. (2000). SAVI - The system for analyzing verbal interaction. In A.P. Beck, & C.M. Lewis (Eds.), The process of group psychotherapy: Systems for analyzing change (pp. 357-380). Washington, D.C.: American Psychological Association.

Simon, A., & Agazarian, Y.M. (1967). SAVI: Sequential analysis of verbal interaction. Philadelphia, PA: Research for Better Schools.

Presenters

Frances Carter, MSS, LSW, CGP. Frances Carter, LSW, has been working with SAVI, and its developers – Yvonne Agazarian and Anita Simon, since 1981 in both a research and training contexts. She is currently a principal in SAVI Communications, a company that provides training, coaching, consultation and counseling using SAVI. She is one of the developers and senior trainers in the SAVI Certification Program, a program designed for professionals who would like to be able to teach SAVI in their work contexts. Fran is also a founding member of the Systems-Centered Training and Research Institute, a current Board Member and System Mentor. She continues to be interested in the development of training, curriculum and research and has contributed her time to these work groups within SCTRI. She is a licensed Systems-Centered Practitioner and a senior trainer.

The force field, as developed by Kurt Lewin, is the SCT map for collecting information about the forces that drive systems towards their goals (driving forces) and the forces that get in the way (restraining forces). Building a force field related to a particular goal helps identify which restraining forces to reduce so the driving forces can be released. The group will use force fields to clarify goals, identify driving and restraining forces, identify solutions to problems, and make decisions.

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Demonstrate a basic theoretical understanding of force fields through group discussion
• Construct a force field by identifying a goal, and driving and restraining forces to that goal
• Use the force field in problem-solving to move toward a goal

Presentation Content

Force Fields were developed by Kurt Lewin in 1947, and have been used in many social applications since then. They are an important tool used in SCT to aid in collecting data about the driving and restraining forces in human systems. Force Fields have found applications in many other fields where they are used in a similar way. Several peer-reviewed articles listed below describe and demonstrate the value and application of Force Fields to SCT and other fields.

Supporting References

Agazarian, Y.M., & Gantt, S.P. (2003). Phases of group development: Systems-centered hypotheses and their implications for research and practice. Group Dynamics: Theory, Research and Practice, 7(3), 238-252. doi: 10.1037/1089-2699.7.3.238

Dion, K.L. (2000). Group cohesion: From "field of forces" to multidimensional construct. Group Dynamics: Theory, Research, and Practice, 4(1), 7-26.

Agazarian, Y.M. (1999). Phases of development in the systems-centered group. Small Group Research, 30(1), 82-107. doi: 10.1177/104649649903000105

Lewin, K. (1947). Frontiers in group dynamics: II. Channels of group life social planning and action research. Human Relations, 1(2), 143-153.

Bozak, M.G. (2003). Using Lewin's force field analysis in implementing a nursing information system. Computers, Informatics, Nursing: Continuing Education, 21(2), 80-85.

Presenters

Alida Zweidler-McKay, MBA. Alida Zweidler-McKay has been a consultant and coach since 1996. She works with senior executives and middle managers to develop their leadership skills through one-on-one coaching, leadership development training programs and consulting projects. Alida is a certified SAVI trainer. She has participated in SCT training since 2002 and is working toward becoming a licensed Systems-Centered Practitioner. She has a BA from Swarthmore College and an MBA from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania.

SCT work is always in the context of the phases of system development. Each phase of development is operationally defined as a force field of driving and restraining forces. This enables identifying phase-specific interventions that weaken the restraining forces relevant to the phase. Aligning change strategies that link to the phase of development enables releasing the driving forces of the phase.

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Explain the phases of system development defined by SCT
• Describe at least one developmental challenge inherent in each phase
• Describe and apply the hierarchy of defense modification weakening restraining forces relevant to the phases of system development

Presentation Content

Agazarian’s (1997) theory of living human systems, with its systems-centered approach to group practice, represents a developed and comprehensive systems theory applied to groups, individuals and couples. The theory of living human systems has defined theoretical constructs and operational definitions that function as hypotheses to test both the validity of the theory and the reliability of its practice. This theory and its methods are accepted among group practitioners as evidenced by SCTRI’s 2010 recognition for “Outstanding Contributions in Education and Training in the Field of Group Psychotherapy” awarded by the National Registry of Certified Group Psychotherapists. SCT methods are regularly cited or included in handbooks and reviews of group psychotherapy practice. There is also significant peer-reviewed published support for the theory and its practice, including articles in the International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, Group Dynamics, Small Group Research, Organizational Analysis, and Group Analysis.

Supporting References

Agazarian, Y.M. (1994). The phases of development and the systems-centered group. In M. Pines, & V. Schermer (Eds.), Ring of fire: Primitive object relations and affect in group psychotherapy (pp. 36-85). London, UK: Routledge, Chapman & Hall.

Agazarian, Y.M. (1997). Systems-centered therapy for groups. New York, NY: Guilford Press. Re-printed in paperback (2004). London, UK: Karnac Books.

Agazarian, Y.M. (1999). Phases of development in the systems-centered group. Small Group Research, 30(1), 82-107. doi: 10.1177/104649649903000105

Agazarian, Y.M., & Gantt, S.P. (2003). Phases of group development: Systems-centered hypotheses and their implications for research and practice. Group Dynamics: Theory, Research and Practice, 7(3), 238-252. doi: 10.1037/1089-2699.7.3.238

Gantt, S.P., & Agazarian, Y.M. (2007). Phases of system development in organizational work groups: The systems-centered approach for intervening in context. Organisational & Social Dynamics, 7(2), 253-291.

Presenters

Susan P. Gantt, Ph.D., CGP, ABPP, DFAGPA, FAPA. Susan P. Gantt, Ph.D., ABPP, CGP, DFAGPA, FAPA, is a psychologist in private practice in Atlanta and Emerita faculty at Emory University School of Medicine, Psychiatry department, where she taught and coordinated group psychotherapy training for 29 years. She is the Chair of the Systems-Centered Training and Research Institute, which was recognized with the 2010 Award for Outstanding Contributions in Education and Training in the Field of Group Psychotherapy by the National Registry of Certified Group Psychotherapists. She trains, supervises and consults in the practice of SCT in the US and Europe and leads ongoing training groups for therapists and consultants in Atlanta, San Francisco and the Netherlands. She has published numerous journal articles and co-authored the texts Autobiography of a Theory, SCT in Action, and Systems-Centered Therapy: Clinical Practice with Individuals, Families & Groups with Yvonne Agazarian. She co-edited the book The Interpersonal Neurobiology of Group Psychotherapy and Group Process with Bonnie Badenoch in 2013. She was awarded the 2011 Alonso Award for Excellence in Psychodynamic Group Psychotherapy by the Group Psychotherapy Foundation for her work in editing (with Paul Cox) the special issue of the International Journal of Group Psychotherapy on “Neurobiology and Interpersonal Systems: Groups, Couples and Beyond.”

Force field analysis is a tool used in SCT to track the driving and restraining forces of system development. Force fields allow us to identify the explicit and implicit goals of a system at any level. In this two-day, intermediate level training we will practice building force fields together with experiential exercises, while creating a context for connection and having fun.

This training dovetails with Intermediate Skills Training (IST) and is for people who have taken IST and for those who are considering IST. Please self-assess your readiness for this training by reviewing the criteria for Intermediate Level training at https://www.systemscentered.com/Training/The-SCT-Training-Curriculum

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Describe Kurt Lewin’s concept of a force field and how it relates to system development from a SCT perspective
• Discriminate observable data from opinions and stories
• Build and use force fields to clarify the implicit and explicit goals of a system

Presentation Content

The systems-centered approach developed by Yvonne Agazarian is considered by APA a contribution to the knowledge of the boundaries between clinical and social psychology. Systems-centered training draws on a comprehensive systems theory, that is implemented by specific, theory-derived methods and techniques. The core method, functional subgrouping, is indicated by peer reviewed research to improve group functioning. Force Fields were developed by Kurt Lewin in 1947. They are an important tool used in SCT to aid in collecting data about the driving and restraining forces in human systems. Force Fields have found applications in many other fields, including organizational development, where they are used in a similar way.

Supporting References

Agazarian, Y.M. (1997). Systems-centered therapy for groups. New York, NY: Guilford. Re printed in paperback (2004). London, UK: Karnac Books.

Agazarian, Y.M., & Gantt, S.P. (2005). The systems perspective. In S. Wheelan (Ed.), Handbook of group research and practice. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage.

Agazarian, Y.M., & Gantt, S.P. (2000). Autobiography of a theory: Developing a theory of living human systems and its systems-centered practice. London, UK: Jessica Kingsley.

Gantt, S.P., & Agazarian, Y.M. (Eds.) (2006). SCT in clinical practice: Applying the systems-centered approach with individuals, families and groups. Livermore, CA: WingSpan Press.

Lewin, K. (1951). Field theory in social science. New York, NY: Harper & Row.

Presenters

Rick Campa, Ph.D.. Rick Campa, Ph.D., is a licensed psychologist in private practice in Austin, Texas. Rick was formally trained in Boston and moved to Texas in 1991. Rick currently divides his time as a husband and father of two, a psychotherapist working with individuals, couples, and groups in private practice, and a state psychological consultant making determinations for the Social Security Disability program. He began studying System-Centered training in 1998 and is currently a licensed Systems-Centered practitioner.

Alida Zweidler-McKay, MBA. Alida Zweidler-McKay has been a consultant and coach since 1996. She works with senior executives and middle managers to develop their leadership skills through one-on-one coaching, leadership development training programs and consulting projects. Alida is a certified SAVI trainer. She began studying Systems-Centered Training in 2002 and is working toward becoming a licensed Systems-Centered Practitioner. She has a BA from Swarthmore College and an MBA from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania.

This intermediate level training focuses on the practice of SCT leadership through introducing functional subgrouping, the distraction exercise and the fork-in-the-road to discriminate between explaining and exploring – core SCT methods. Participants practice through role-plays in different contexts (clinical, OD, etc).

This training dovetails with Intermediate Skills Training (IST) and is for people who have taken IST and for those who are considering IST. Please self-assess your readiness for this training by reviewing the criteria for Intermediate Level training at https://www.systemscentered.com/Training/The-SCT-Training-Curriculum

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Practice using the skill of functional subgrouping in a group, building a context where members join on similarities, while differences are contained and explored, rather than scapegoated
• Apply the concept of role, goal and context in the system, by using the distraction exercise to bring energy across the boundaries in time, space and reality so individuals take up their member role in a given context
• State and apply the fork-in-the-road technique that helps build the discrimination between explaining or exploring an experience

Presentation Content

The systems-centered approach developed by Yvonne Agazarian is considered by APA a contribution to the knowledge of the boundaries between clinical and social psychology. Systems-Centered Training draws on a comprehensive systems-theory, that is implemented by specific, theory-derived methods and techniques. The core method, functional subgrouping, is indicated by peer reviewed research to improve group functioning. All the three methods that in this workshop are explored from the leadership perspective can be linked theoretically and practically to group Emotional Intelligence as well as to the concept of Learning Organization.

Supporting References

Agazarian, Y.M., & Gantt, S.P. (2005). The systems perspective. In S. Wheelan (Ed.), Handbook of group research and practice (pp. 187-200). Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage.

Gantt, S.P. (2005). Functional role-taking in organizations and work groups. Group Psychologist (APA Division 49 newsletter), 15(5), 15.

Gantt, S.P., & Agazarian, Y.M. (2004). Systems-centered emotional intelligence: Beyond individual systems to organizational systems. Organizational Analysis, 12(2), 147-169. doi: 10.1108/eb028990

O'Neill, R.M., & Constantino, M.J. (2008). Systems-centered training groups' process and outcome: A comparison with AGPA institute groups. International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, 58(1), 77-102. doi: 10.1521/ijgp.2008.58.1.77

Gantt, S.P., & Agazarian, Y.M. (Eds.) (2006). Systems-centered therapy: In clinical practice with individuals, families and groups. Livermore, CA: WingSpan Press. Reprint (2011). London, UK: Karnac Books.

Presenters

A. Meigs Ross, M.Div., LCSW. The Rev. A. Meigs Ross, M.Div., LCSW, is a psychotherapist and consultant in private practice in New York City. She is also an adjunct professor and Clinical Pastoral Education Supervisor at Union Theological Seminary in New York and Jewish Theological Seminary. She is an Episcopal priest, a licensed systems-centered consultant and therapist SCTRI, a certified clinical pastoral educator with the Association for Clinical Pastoral Education, a certified chaplain with the Association for Professional Chaplains and a licensed Clinical Social Worker. Rev. Ross has served as the Manager of Pastoral Care and Education at New York Presbyterian Hospital the Director of Clinical Pastoral Education at the HealthCare Chaplaincy in New York and continues to serve as a consultant with New York Presbyterian Hospital and the Episcopal Church. Rev. Ross received a Master of Divinity from Union Theological Seminary and an MSW from New York University.

Peter Kunneman, . Peter Kunneman has a background in organizational consulting. He typically works with organizations that are challenged by changes they find difficult to integrate. Since 2009 Peter is increasingly applying the Theory of Living Human Systems in his work. Currently his focus is on coaching teams in conflict, using Functional Subgrouping as the core method. He discovered that in that work forming subsystems of coaches which are able to contain the fight energy with the client system is a key success factor.

This workshop is for Intermediate and Advanced members who are interested in reviewing and exploring more deeply the current protocols in the revised Foundation Manual. The work will focus on the understanding of the system developmental goal, vector and function of each protocol, particularly the newer additions.

Prerequisite: Completion of Mentor Training and in active consultation.

Note: Participation in intermediate level training requires actively receiving consultation from an SCT Licensed Practitioner.

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Apply an understanding of the goal and vector of a protocol to the specific steps
• Apply an understanding of the theoretical context for the use of SCT protocols
• Apply an understanding of the Phases of System Development to the use of SCT protocols
• Describe the relationship of Structural, Functional and Vectoring interventions to System development
• Describe the hierarchy of defense modification and its relationship to the Phases of System Development
• Describe the importance of the sequence of defense modification outlined in the Hierarchy

Presentation Content

Agazarian’s (1997) theory of living human systems, with its systems-centered approach to group practice, represents a developed and comprehensive systems theory applied to groups, individuals and couples. The theory of living human systems has defined theoretical constructs and operational definitions that implement and test the theoretical hypotheses in its practice. There is also significant peer-reviewed published support for the theory and its practice, including articles in the International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, Group Dynamics, Small Group Research, Organizational Analysis, and Group Analysis. The systems-centered approach to group and organizational work has been in the field for over 20 years, presented in approximately 30 articles in peer reviewed professional journals. Its methods incorporate techniques linked to successful strategies for improvement in work with groups and individuals.

Supporting References

Agazarian, Y.M. (1997). Systems-centered therapy for groups. New York, NY: Guilford Press. Reprint (2004). London, UK: Karnac Books.

Agazarian, Y.M., & Gantt, S.P. (2003). Phases of group development: Systems-centered hypotheses and their implications for research and practice. Group Dynamics: Theory, Research and Practice, 7(3), 238-252. doi: 10.1037/1089-2699.7.3.238

Goldberg, S. (1997). Module 1 defense modification: Its application for short-term individual and group psychotherapy. SCT Journal: Systems-Centered Theory and Practice, 2, 31-33.

Presenters

Frances Carter, MSS, LSW, CGP. Frances Carter, MSS, LSW, CGP, is a Licensed Social Worker, living and working in the Philadelphia area. She maintains a clinical and consulting practice working with individuals, couples, groups and organizations. Fran is a founding member of the Systems-Centered Training and Research Institute, and a Board Member and System Mentor. She continues to be interested in the development of training,curriculum and research and has contributed her time to these work groups within SCTRI. She is a licensed Systems-Centered Practitioner and a senior trainer, leading workshops, ongoing training and consultation groups and intensive training blocks throughout the US and Europe. She is also a principle in SAVI Communications and the SAVI Network where she works with others to develop training in the SAVI approach to communication. She brings to all her work the energy and creativity of her early background as an artist.

Annie MacIver, MA, CQSW. Annie MacIver is a Social Worker who specialises in working with children and their families. Annie is Director of Family Operations for a large local authority in England and is engaged in applying systems-centred theory and methods to enhancing leadership capacity and capability in complex organisational contexts. She is a licensed Systems-Centered Practitioner and Board Member.

This is a continuation of the 7-day training beginning in the Institute. Members continue to practice applying the SCT protocols related to Modules I and II of the Hierarchy of Defense Modification. Each day will cover a theory component, videotaped practice sessions, and a force field review of the videotapes.

By application to assess your readiness for this training (see link below): Send to both Susan Beren (susanberen@gmail.com) and Madeline O'Carroll (madmoc1@gmail.com)

APPLICATION DEADLINE: February 25, 2018

7-day group, meets on Institute weekend and continues Mon - Fri mornings.

Note: Participation in intermediate level training requires actively receiving consultation from an SCT Licensed Practitioner. This is this first of the core Intermediate SCT trainings.

Please download, complete and return this application form

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Demonstrate ability to introduce functional subgrouping to a group
• Demonstrate ability to use SCT protocols for undoing distractions, anxiety, tension, depression, outrages, and role-locks
• Apply a basic understanding of the theoretical context for the use of SCT protocols
• Prepare a force field to analyze what helps or hinders the application of protocols
• Demonstrate ability to provide feedback based on facts, not opinions
• Demonstrate ability to lead a small task group

Presentation Content

Agazarian’s (1997) theory of living human systems, with its systems-centered approach to group practice, represents a developed and comprehensive systems theory applied to groups, individuals and couples. The theory of living human systems has defined theoretical constructs and operational definitions that function as hypotheses to test both the validity of the theory and the reliability of its practice. This theory and its methods are accepted among group practitioners as evidenced by SCTRI’s 2010 recognition for “Outstanding Contributions in Education and Training in the Field of Group Psychotherapy” awarded by the National Registry of Certified Group Psychotherapists. SCT methods are regularly cited or included in handbooks and reviews of group psychotherapy practice. There is also significant peer-reviewed published support for the theory and its practice, including articles in the International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, Group Dynamics, Small Group Research, Organizational Analysis, and Group Analysis.

Supporting References

Agazarian, Y.M. (1999). Phases of development in the systems-centered group. Small Group Research, 30(1), 82-107. doi: 10.1177/104649649903000105

Agazarian, Y.M. (1997). Systems-centered therapy for groups. New York, NY: Guilford Press. Re-printed in paperback (2004). London, UK: Karnac Books.

Agazarian, Y.M., & Byram, C. (2009). First build the system: The systems-centered approach to combined psychotherapy. GROUP: The Journal of the Eastern Group Psychotherapy Society, 33(2), 129-148.

Agazarian, Y.M., & Gantt, S.P. (2003). Phases of group development: Systems-centered hypotheses and their implications for research and practice. Group Dynamics: Theory, Research and Practice, 7(3), 238-252. doi: 10.1037/1089-2699.7.3.238

Gantt, S.P., & Agazarian, Y.M. (2010). Developing the group mind through functional subgrouping: Linking systems-centered training (SCT) and interpersonal neurobiology. International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, 60(4), 514-545. doi: 10.1521/ijgp.2010.60.4.515

Presenters

Susan Beren, Ph.D.. Susan Beren, Ph.D., is a licensed clinical psychologist who has worked in multiple city hospitals and been in private practice in New York City for the last 19 years, doing therapy with individuals, couples and groups and providing supervision and consultation. Susan has taught, done research on and co-authored several papers on the multiple causes and treatment of eating disorders and obesity. She is a licensed Systems-Centered Training practitioner.

Madeline O'Carroll, MSc, PGDip, RMN, SFHEA. Madeline O'Carroll is a Licensed Systems-Centered Practitioner, a Senior Lecturer in Mental Health Nursing at City, University of London and a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy. She has worked in mental health for thirty years as a clinician and an educator. Madeline is a qualified teacher with extensive experience of developing and delivering education and training and she also runs therapy groups for people with psychosis.

This intermediate level training combines experiential work, focusing on crossing the boundary from person to member systems, with in-depth theory and force field work on the phases of system development (diagnosis, dynamics, driving and restraining forces).

This 3-year course is open to be repeated as long as members find it meets their goals. Membership requires a commitment to attend all three yearly sessions in any one cycle. SCT Conference 2018 begins the current cycle of this 3 year group. The group is now open for members to join and then will close until a new cycle begins in 2021. Questions: contact Heather Twomey, heather.twomey@gmail.com

By application to assess your readiness for this training (see link below)

APPLICATION DEADLINE: January 31, 2018

Note: Participation in intermediate level training requires actively receiving consultation from an SCT Licensed Practitioner.

Please download, complete and return this application form

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Recognize and reduce restraining forces to moving into member role by exploring boundary between person and member systems in context of the phase of system development
• Apply SCT methods and techniques to reduce restraining forces in group development
• Practice containing person system experience as potential resource for group development
• Apply force field structure to organize observations of group development as well as to one’s driving and restraining forces for moving from person to member role
• Assess group implicit goals and phase of development from force field data
• Discuss theory and phases of group development, relating to force field data and assessment

Presentation Content

The systems-centered approach to group and organizational work has been in the field for over 20 years, presented in approximately 30 articles in peer-reviewed professional journals. Its methods incorporate techniques linked to successful strategies for improvement in group and individual psychotherapy, for example, modifying cognitive distortions, increasing group cohesion, lowering scapegoating, and reducing somatic defenses.

Supporting References

Agazarian, Y.M. (1994). The phases of development and the systems-centered group. In M. Pines, & V. Schermer (Eds.), Ring of fire: Primitive object relations and affect in group psychotherapy. London, UK: Routledge, Chapman & Hall.

Agazarian, Y.M. (1997). Systems-centered therapy for groups. New York, NY: Guilford Press. Re-printed in paperback (2004). London, UK: Karnac Books.

Bennis, W.G., & Shepard, H.A. (1956). A theory of group development. Human Relations, 9(4), 415-437.

Presenters

Heather Twomey, Ph.D.. Heather B. Twomey, Ph.D., is a Clinical Psychologist who has trained in Systems-Centered Therapy (SCT) steadily since 1996. She is currently a licensed SCT Practitioner who leads and co-leads in various SCT training contexts including conferences, workshops, and training groups. Additionally, she practices as an SCT licensed practitioner in private practice where she conducts group, individual, and couples therapy.

Robert Hartford, LCSW. Robert Hartford, LICSW, is a licensed psychotherapist in Washington, DC, California and New York and an Executive and Organizational Development Coach. He is a Licensed Systems-Centered Practitioner, ICEEFT Certified Therapist, and a Certified Daring Way™ Facilitator (CDFW). In 2001, he founded Solutions & Results, in Washington, DC, an independent therapy center focusing on emotional development and transformation. Robert received his post-master's training at the Systems-Centered Training and Research Institute, and trained at San Francisco General Hospital, Psychiatric Department and Kaiser Department of Psychiatry.

This training is an ongoing event that confronts the hatred of authority, one’s own and others’. Alternating between training group practicum and review work, the program will focus on applying the Theory of Living Human Systems in exploring the issues of giving and taking authority. This training is by application only for SCTRI members who are committed to becoming a licensed SCT practitioner, who have completed all prerequisite intermediate training, and meet the criteria for group membership (see https://www.systemscentered.com/Training/The-SCT-Training-Curriculum for details). Joining this group means committing to twice yearly meetings for the duration of the group.

This is a closed group. 7-day group, meets on Institute weekend and continues Mon - Fri mornings.

Note: Participation in intermediate level training requires actively receiving consultation from an SCT Licensed Practitioner.

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Develop ability in shifting from person to member in a developing group in each of its phases of system development
• Utilize leadership and membership roles working in the context of a peer task-focused group
• Explore and weaken the restraining forces in shifting from person to member
• Explore hatred of authority
• Explore the role relationships with external authority and one’s internal authority
• Practice working in membership with leadership towards the goal of increasing awareness of the driving and restraining forces related to leadership effectiveness, both internal in relationship to the personality style, task/maintenance dimensions, and the effect of leadership behaviors on the group's membership, subgroups and the group-as-a-whole

Presentation Content

Agazarian’s (1997) theory of living human systems, with its systems-centered approach to group practice, represents a developed and comprehensive systems theory applied to groups, individuals and couples. The theory of living human systems has defined theoretical constructs and operational definitions that function as hypotheses to test both the validity of the theory and the reliability of its practice. This theory and its methods are accepted among group practitioners as evidenced by SCTRI’s 2010 recognition for “Outstanding Contributions in Education and Training in the Field of Group Psychotherapy” awarded by the National Registry of Certified Group Psychotherapists. SCT methods are regularly cited or included in handbooks and reviews of group psychotherapy practice. There is also significant peer-reviewed published support for the theory and its practice, including articles in the International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, Group Dynamics, Small Group Research, Organizational Analysis, and Group Analysis.

Supporting References

Agazarian, Y.M. (1997). Systems-centered therapy for groups. New York, NY: Guilford Press. Re-printed in paperback (2004). London, UK: Karnac Books.

Agazarian, Y.M., & Gantt, S.P. (2003). Phases of group development: Systems-centered hypotheses and their implications for research and practice. Group Dynamics: Theory, Research and Practice, 7(3), 238-252. doi: 10.1037/1089-2699.7.3.238

Agazarian, Y.M., & Gantt, S.P. (2005). The systems perspective. In S. Wheelan (Ed.), Handbook of group research and practice (pp. 187-200). Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage.

Brabender, V., & Fallon, A. (2008). Group development in practice: Guidance for clinicians and researchers on stages and dynamics of change. Washington, DC: American Psychological Association.

Moreno, J.K. (2007). Scapegoating in group psychotherapy. International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, 57(1), 93-104.

Presenters

Susan P. Gantt, Ph.D., CGP, ABPP, DFAGPA, FAPA. Susan P. Gantt, Ph.D., ABPP, CGP, DFAGPA, FAPA, is a psychologist in private practice in Atlanta and Emerita faculty at Emory University School of Medicine, Psychiatry department, where she taught and coordinated group psychotherapy training for 29 years. She is the Chair of the Systems-Centered Training and Research Institute, which was recognized with the 2010 Award for Outstanding Contributions in Education and Training in the Field of Group Psychotherapy by the National Registry of Certified Group Psychotherapists. She trains, supervises and consults in the practice of SCT in the US and Europe and leads ongoing training groups for therapists and consultants in Atlanta, San Francisco and the Netherlands. She has published numerous journal articles and co-authored the texts Autobiography of a Theory, SCT in Action, and Systems-Centered Therapy: Clinical Practice with Individuals, Families & Groups with Yvonne Agazarian. She co-edited the book The Interpersonal Neurobiology of Group Psychotherapy and Group Process with Bonnie Badenoch in 2013. She was awarded the 2011 Alonso Award for Excellence in Psychodynamic Group Psychotherapy by the Group Psychotherapy Foundation for her work in editing (with Paul Cox) the special issue of the International Journal of Group Psychotherapy on “Neurobiology and Interpersonal Systems: Groups, Couples and Beyond.”

Ray Haddock, MBChB, M.MedSc, FRCPsych. Ray Haddock, MBChB, M.MedSc, FRCPsych, Member of Institute of Group Analysis, Licensed Systems-Centered Practitioner. He qualified in medicine in 1982, trained in Psychiatry then in Psychotherapy in Leeds (UK). He has wide experience of leading SCT training groups and workshops in UK, Europe and the USA. He has practiced as a Consultant Medical Psychotherapist in the UK for over 20 years and has also had a number of management roles in the NHS, including service development and implementation of training programs for psychiatry trainees. He taught psychotherapy based on SCT to junior psychiatrists and psychotherapy trainees for over 20 years. Clinically he uses SCT in individual and group therapy and has developed a manual to support this work. He uses the Theory of Living Human Systems in day-to-day organizational work, consultation and leadership.

This whole morning training offers two roles: Container and Observing Container. Participants with SCT Intermediate Skills Training take a Container role in the Foundation Group. Other Intermediate level members observe the Containers at work. After the morning break, we review and process the work.

Note: Participation in intermediate level training requires actively receiving consultation from an SCT Licensed Practitioner.

Please download, complete and return this application form

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Describe three goals of the Container role
• Name three internal behaviors that support the Container role
• Name three verbal behaviors that support taking the Container role
• Name one criterion for lightening the work of a subgroup
• Name one criterion for deepening the work of a subgroup
• Practice subgrouping from the Container rather than the Member role

Presentation Content

The systems-centered approach to group and organizational work has been in the field for over 20 years, presented in approximately 30 articles in peer-reviewed professional journals. Its methods incorporate techniques linked to successful strategies for improvement in group and individual psychotherapy, for example, modifying cognitive distortions, increasing group cohesion, lowering scapegoating, and reducing somatic defences. This training focuses on the Container role to support functional subgrouping, group development and the group leader.

Supporting References

Agazarian, Y.M. (1997). Systems-centered therapy for groups. New York, NY: Guilford Press. Re-printed in paperback (2004). London, UK: Karnac Books.

Gantt, S.P., & Agazarian, Y.M. (Eds.) (2005). SCT in action: Applying the systems-centered approach in organizations. Lincoln, NE: iUniverse. Reprint (2006). London, UK: Karnac Books.

Agazarian, Y.M., & Gantt, S.P. (2005). The systems perspective. In S. Wheelan (Ed.), Handbook of group research and practice (pp. 187-200). Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage.

Presenters

Lotte Paans, MSc. Lotte Paans, MSc, runs a private practice for therapy and coaching in the Netherlands. She counsels individuals, couples and teams, provides training and supervision for (team) coaches and consultants, and manages change in organizations using SCT. She leads ongoing SCT groups in the Netherlands, is Secretary of the Dutch SCT Board and is a licensed SCT Practitioner.

Norma Safransky, MD. Norma Safransky, MD, is a board certified psychiatrist in private practice in Chapel Hill, NC. She is a licensed Systems-Centered Practitioner and runs SCT therapy groups. She has a Bachelor of Science degree from Duke University and a Doctorate of Medicine degree from the University of North Carolina (UNC). She completed her residency in Psychiatry at UNC.

This training observes the Authority Issue Group to track group dynamics, phase of system development, communication patterns that support the phase, leadership interventions linking interventions to theory and group functioning. Goal: To learn through observation to collect data about the impact of leader interventions in each phase of development and, through experience, to collect data about system isomorphy.

Prerequisite: Completion of the Authority Issue Group

This is a closed group. 7-day group, meets on Institute weekend and continues Mon - Fri mornings.

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Analyze SCT interventions and relate them to driving and restraining forces in the phases of system development
• Identify a predictable hierarchy of defense modification
• Describe observations and apply experience to a Theory of Living Human Systems and systems-centered practice
• Compare isomorphy between group being observed and observing group
• Assess effectiveness of functional subgrouping in advanced training group (Authority Issue Group)
• Demonstrate development of advanced training skills in the training group context

Presentation Content

Learning methods: Systems-centered practice and training was developed by Yvonne Agazarian over a number of decades. This training is offered from foundation level to licensing and more recently the Systems-Centered Training and Research Institute (SCTRI) has pioneered advanced training for trainers, a training group for advanced practitioners who who wish to enhance their skills as trainers. This training is a twice yearly training observing the training and development of the Authority Issue Group (AIG). SCTRI was presented with the 2010 Award for Outstanding Contributions in Education and Training in the Field of Group Psychotherapy by The National Registry of Certified Group Psychotherapists. The training consists of observation of the AIG training group led by Susan Gantt and Ray Haddock. Discussion and exploration, using the observations to provide data for tracking group dynamics, phase of system development, communication patterns that support the phase, leadership interventions to member, subgroup and group-as-a-whole, while linking interventions to theory and group functioning. Skills practice: using the group to practice and build on skills of giving and taking authority in training roles.

Supporting References

Agazarian, Y.M. (1996). An up-to-date guide to the theory, constructs and hypotheses of a theory of living human systems and its systems-centered practice. SCT Journal: Systems-Centered Theory and Practice, 1, 3-12.

Brabender, V., & Fallon, A. (2009). Group development in practice. Washington, DC: American Psychological Association.

Agazarian, Y.M. (1997). Systems-centered therapy for groups. New York, NY: Guilford Press. Re-printed in paperback (2004). London, UK: Karnac Books.

Gantt, S.P., & Agazarian, Y.M. (Eds.) (2005). SCT in action: Applying the systems-centered approach in organizations. Lincoln, NE: iUniverse. Reprint (2006). London, UK: Karnac Books.

Presenters

Dorothy Gibbons, MSS, LCSW. Dorothy Gibbons, MSS, LCSW, is a licensed Systems-Centered Practitioner. She is in private practice in Philadelphia, PA. She works with individuals, groups, and couples. She also works as an organizational consultant to a social service agency in Philadelphia. Ms. Gibbons is the former Director of the Adolescent Sex Offender Unit at the Joseph J. Peters Institute in Philadelphia and has extensive experience working with both victims and offenders of sexual abuse. She is on the Board of Directors of the Systems-Centered Training and Research Institute. She is also a graduate of the Gestalt Therapy Training.

Juliet Koprowska, MSW. Juliet Koprowska, MSW, Diploma in Counselling, has extensive experience of systems-centered training at an advanced level, most recently as a member of the group observing the last Authority Issue/Licensing Group. She is Senior Lecturer in Social Work at the University of York where her main roles are teaching qualifying and registered social workers. Her main areas of expertise are communication, family work, group work, and field education. She researches communication in social work practice and is author of Communication and Interpersonal Skills in Social Work (4th edition). London: Sage Learning Matters, a book widely used on social work programmes in the UK. She organises the annual SCT event held in York, England.

Sitting alongside SCT is a research tool, SAVI, developed by Yvonne Agazarian and Anita Simon. Using SAVI, we can identify communication behaviors that are restraining forces to really hearing each other. Participants will use SAVI to develop a deeper understanding of Functional Subgrouping, and will analyze Functional Subgrouping and other communication patterns to identify interventions that move us from conflict to collaboration.

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Analyze SCT’s Functional Subgrouping from a SAVI perspective to understand how and why it works
• Describe how language choices impact collaboration and the potential for work
• Demonstrate at least one strategy for moving a conversation from “us vs. them” to “we”

Presentation Content

Agazarian’s (1997) theory of living human systems and its methods, including Functional Subgrouping, are accepted among group practitioners as evidenced by SCTRI’s 2010 recognition for “Outstanding Contributions in Education and Training in the Field of Group Psychotherapy” awarded by the National Registry of Certified Group Psychotherapists. SCT methods are regularly cited or included in handbooks and reviews of group psychotherapy practice. There is also significant peer-reviewed published support for the theory and its practice, including articles in the International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, Group Dynamics, Small Group Research, Organizational Analysis, and Group Analysis. Behavioral observation systems are well established in the research and clinical fields. This particular model, System for Analyzing Verbal Interaction (SAVI), has been used for research in 4 dissertations, reported as a group process tool in 4 peer reviewed publications, and is currently used for data collection in 3 as yet unpublished ongoing studies. It has a sound theoretical base in both field theory (Kurt Lewin) and information theory (Shannon), and builds on the work of Bales and others who developed observation systems to study classroom interactions.

Supporting References

Agazarian, Y.M., & Gantt, S.P. (2000). Autobiography of a theory. London, UK: Jessica Kingsley.

Byram, C., Marshall, E., & Simon, A. (2006). Red, yellow, green: Modifying communication patterns in an elementary school system. In S.P. Gantt, & Y.M. Agazarian (Eds.), SCT in action: Applying the systems-centered approach in organizations (pp. 99-128). London, UK: Karnac Books.

Simon, A. (1993). Using SAVI for couples' therapy. Journal of Family Psychotherapy, 4, 39-62.

Simon, A., & Agazarian, Y.M. (2000). SAVI - The system for analyzing verbal interaction. In A. Beck, & C. Lewis (Eds.), The process of group psychotherapy: Systems for analyzing change (pp. 357-380). Washington, D.C.: American Psychological Association.

Benjamin, B., Yeager, A., & Simon, A. (2012). Conversation transformation. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill.

Presenters

Michelle Lynskey, Ph.D.. Michelle Lynskey has been an executive coach and organization development consultant for over 25 years, specializing in leadership and team development with an emphasis on communications effectiveness. In all her practice areas, she works at diagnosing system-wide contributing factors and providing responsive solutions. She is licensed as a Psychologist in the State of Texas, a graduate of Hamline University and has a Ph.D. in Industrial and Organizational Psychology from Rice University. She is certified in the System for Analyzing Verbal Interactions (SAVI) and has been studying the method of Functional Subgrouping through the Systems-Centered Training & Research Institute (SCTRI) for 10 years. She actively uses Functional Subgrouping and SAVI with clients in her role as coach and consultant.

Alida Zweidler-McKay, MBA. Alida Zweidler-McKay, MBA, has been a consultant and coach since 1996. She works with senior executives and middle managers to develop their leadership skills and build their teams through executive coaching, leadership development programs and consulting projects. Alida is a certified SAVI trainer. She has participated in SCT training since 2002 and is working toward becoming a licensed Systems-Centered Practitioner. She has a BA from Swarthmore College and an MBA from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania.

The SCT Phases of Development in Work Groups offers a map for moving from the dynamics of Flight and Fight (Us vs.Them) to Collaboration and Work (We). We’ll use the Phases map to explore our experience in organizations and, through role-play and functional subgrouping, experiment with different verbal behaviors as a way to move to "We." Hopefully we’ll build a fun learning system through the work.

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Locate Them vs. Us and We on the SCT Phases of Development in Work Groups force field
• Describe how to help a work group move from Fight to Collaboration
• Use the force field as a tool to identify behaviors that support or get in the way of goal achievement in a given context

Presentation Content

Agazarian’s (1997) theory of living human systems, with its systems-centered approach to group practice, represents a developed and comprehensive systems theory applied to groups, individuals and couples. The theory of living human systems has defined theoretical constructs and operational definitions that implement and test the theoretical hypotheses in its practice. This institute will apply the theory and methods to participants’ organizational contexts.

Supporting References

Davis, R. (2014). Working across organisational boundaries: Shifting from complaining and blaming to problem-solving. e-O&P Journal of the Association for Management Education and Development, 21(3), 22-37. 

Gantt, S.P., & Agazarian, Y.M. (Eds.) (2005). SCT in Action: Applying the systems-centered approach in organizations. Lincoln, NE: iUniverse. Reprint (2006). London, UK: Karnac Books.

Gantt, S.P. & Agazarian, Y.M. (2007). Phases of system development in organizational work groups: The systems-centered approach for intervening in context. Organizational & Social Dynamics, 7(2), pp. 253-291.

Gantt, S.P. (2013). Applying systems-centered theory (SCT) and methods in organizational contexts: Putting SCT to work. International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, 63(2), 234-258. doi: 10.1521/ijgp.2013.63.2.234

Presenters

Rowena Davis, BSc, MSc. Rowena Davis, MSc, is an organizational consultant working with public, private and not-for-profit organizations in the UK and internationally. Her work combines coaching individuals and teams; strategic marketing and planning; mapping systems; and running SCT and SAVI trainings in the US and Europe. She is a licensed Systems-Centered Training practitioner, a certified SAVI trainer and a member of the Systems-Centered Training and Research Institute Board. She holds an MSc in Change Agent Skills & Strategies (Distinction) from the University of Surrey, a Dott. in Sociologia from the University of Trento, Italy, and a BSc (Econ) from the London School of Economics.

Integrating differences is central to the SCT vision. And, we have yet to build a community that reflects significant socio-cultural diversity. Can we be more overt in our commitment to cultivating broader and sustainable cultural diversity within SCTRI? What within the system is driving and restraining such change? In this workshop we will use functional subgrouping, conversation, and force fields to explore these questions.

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Describe at least one person-system restraining force to integrating cultural and/or racial differences
• Describe at least one learning about the integration of cultural and/or racial differences in the SCT context
• Describe at least one group-as-a-whole driving force to the integration of cultural and/or racial differences in the SCT context

Presentation Content

Agazarian’s (1997) theory of living human systems, with its systems-centered approach to group practice, represents a developed and comprehensive systems theory applied to groups, individuals and couples. The theory of living human systems has defined theoretical constructs and operational definitions that implement and test the theoretical hypotheses in its practice. This theory and its methods are accepted among group practitioners as evidenced by SCTRI’s 2010 recognition for “Outstanding Contributions in Education and Training in the Field of Group Psychotherapy” awarded by the National Registry of Certified Group Psychotherapists. SCT methods are regularly cited or included in handbooks and reviews of group psychotherapy practice. There is also significant peer-reviewed published support for the theory and its practice, including articles in the International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, Group Dynamics, Small Group Research, Organizational Analysis, and Group Analysis. The systems-centered approach to group and organizational work has been in the field for over 20 years, presented in approximately 30 articles in peer-reviewed professional journals. Its methods incorporate techniques linked to successful strategies for discriminating and integrating differences rather than scapegoating them, which can be applied to cultural and racial differences.

Supporting References

Agazarian, Y. M. (1997). Systems-centered therapy for groups. New York, NY: Guilford. Reprint (2004). London, UK: Karnac.

Gantt, S.P., & Agazarian, Y.M. (2010). Developing the group mind through functional subgrouping: Linking systems-centered training (SCT) and interpersonal neurobiology. International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, 60(4), 515-544. doi: 10.1521/ijgp.2010.60.4.515

Bermudez, G. (2013). Social dreaming applications in academic settings. Other/wise: Online journal for the International Federation of Psychoanalytic Education. https://ifpe.wordpress.com/2013/06/24

Dunlap, P. (2008). Awakening our faith in the future: The advent of psychological liberalism. London, UK: Routledge Press.

Dunlap, P. (2016). Renewing our faith in groups: A moral imperative for our community. International Journal of Jungian Studies, 8(2), 85-97.

Dunlap, P. (2017) How do we transform our large-group identities? Journal for Jungian Scholarly Studies, 12, 126-149.

de Mare, P., Piper, R., & Thompson, S. (1991). Koinonia: From hate through dialogue to culture in the larger group. Kindle version 5. London, UK: Karnac Books.

Silverstein, M. (2013). Dreaming personality theory forward: Creating pedagogical change from the ground up. Other/wise: Online journal for the International Federation of Psychoanalytic Education. https://ifpe.wordpress.com/2013/06/24

Volkan, V. (2006). Killing in the name of identity: A study of bloody conflicts. Kindle version 5. Charlottesville, VA: Pitchstone.

Presenters

Peter Dunlap, Ph.D.. Peter T. Dunlap, Ph.D., is a psychologist working in private and political practice. Peter is engaged in research at the interface between SCT group theory, Jungian cultural theory and emotion-centered psychotherapy. He leads a weekly Hope and Leadership group for community leaders. He has published his research in a book entitled "Awakening Our Faith in the Future" (Routledge, 2008). He has also published several book chapters, journal papers, and magazine articles at the interface between Jungian theory, group work, and politics. He has presented at numerous conferences revolving around psychology, politics, and group work.

Mohan Sikka, Ph.D. . Mohan Sikka, Ph.D., is an organizational and change management consultant with two decades of experience working primarily in the US social sector. He brings his experience and training with SCT, gestalt therapy, group relations and emotional intelligence to his work with teams and leaders. He has an emerging interest in how a racial equity and social justice lens might intersect with systems-centered approaches, especially in the "age of Trump." While he has presented at other conferences and workshops, this is his first experience leading a workshop at an SCT conference.

Matthew Silverstein, Ph.D.. Matthew Silverstein, Ph.D., is a clinical psychologist in private practice in West Hollywood, California, specializing in integrative depth psychology and LGBTQ affirmative psychotherapy. He is also a core faculty member at Antioch University, Los Angeles, where he co-founded and directs the Spiritual and Depth Psychology Specialization within the Master's of Psychology Department. This specialization offers courses bringing together analytic depth psychology, mindfulness-based clinical practices, and diversity consciousness. He was one of the founders of the LGBT Specialization in Clinical Psychology at Antioch University. He also is an adjunct faculty member at Pacifica Graduate Institute, Ph.D. Clinical Psychology Track, Carpinteria.

Participants will explore the similarities and differences between systems-centered couples' groups and other SCT groups. Participants will have the opportunity to be members or observers of a systems-centered couples' group. The group-as-a-whole will then explore what emerges.

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• State one similarity and one difference between systems-centered couples' groups and other SCT groups
• State one leader intervention that is unique to systems-centered couples' groups
• State one way subgrouping helps a couple develop the skills to become members of a system

Presentation Content

The Theory of Living Human Systems and its methods are accepted among group practitioners as evidenced by SCTRI's recognition for "outstanding contributions in education and training in the field of group psychotherapy" awarded by the National Registry of Certified Group Psychotherapists. The systems-centered approach to group and organizational work has been in the field for over twenty years. Its methods incorporate techniques linked to successful strategies for improvement in group and individual psychotherapy.

Supporting References

Agazarian, Y.M. (1997). Systems-centered therapy for groups. New York, NY: Guilford Press. Reprinted in paperback (2004). London, UK: Karnac Books

Agazarian, Y.M. (1999). Phases of development in the systems-centered group. Small Group Research, 30(1), 82-107.

Agazarian, Y.M., & Gantt, S.P. (2005). The systems perspective. In S. Wheelan (Ed.), Handbook of group research and practice (pp.187-200). Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage

Presenters

Nina Klebanoff, Ed.M., LCSW, CGP. Nina Klebanoff has been in private practice for over thirty-five years, working with individuals, groups, couples' groups and organizations. Nina leads an ongoing SCT training group, provides consultation and has presented at numerous conferences.

This workshop will update progress of a pilot project introducing SCT concepts and practices in a program for women with chronic homelessness, complex trauma backgrounds, and substance abuse. The 9-12 month "Womanspace" program utilizes various modalities and requires 5 groups per week. The introduction of simple SCT practices in all groups and a tailored SCT foundation group show promise in improving overall group functioning and community conflict management. Experiential examples of basic, fun, games to teach SCT will be included.

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• List 4 features of the history and structure of Therapeutic Communities
• Employ 3 basic games to introduce SCT principles and practices
• Describe 3 features distinguishing Borderline personality disorder from c-(complex)-PTSD

Presentation Content

Agazarian’s (1997) theory of living human systems, with its systems-centered approach to group practice, represents a developed and comprehensive systems theory applied to groups, individuals and couples. The theory of living human systems has defined theoretical constructs and operational definitions that implement and test the theoretical hypotheses in its practice. This theory and its methods are accepted among group practitioners as evidenced by SCTRI’s 2010 recognition for “Outstanding Contributions in Education and Training in the Field of Group Psychotherapy” awarded by the National Registry of Certified Group Psychotherapists. SCT methods are regularly cited or included in handbooks and reviews of group psychotherapy practice. There is also significant peer-reviewed published support for the theory and its practice, including articles in the International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, Group Dynamics, Small Group Research, Organizational Analysis, and Group Analysis. The systems-centered approach to group and organizational work has been in the field for over 20 years, presented in approximately 30 articles in peer-reviewed professional journals. Its methods incorporate techniques linked to successful strategies for improvement in group and individual psychotherapy, for example, modifying cognitive distortions, increasing group cohesion, lowering scapegoating, and reducing somatic defenses. In addition, the body of work related to Therapeudic Community clinical approaches for long term residential care will be referenced.

Supporting References

Agazarian, Y.M. (1997). Systems-centered therapy for groups. New York, NY: Guilford Press. Re-printed in paperback (2004). London, UK: Karnac Books.

Brabender, V., & Fallon, A. (2008). Group development in practice: Guidance for clinicians and researchers on stages and dynamics of change. Washington, DC: American Psychological Association.

Dickey, B., & Ware, N. (2008). Therapeutic communities and mental health system reform. Psychiatric Rehabilitation Journal, 32(2), 105-109.

Presenters

James Peightel, MD. Jim Peightel is a community psychiatrist from Philadelphia working in a wide range of treatment settings. His work has focused on program development and integrated mental health treatment for the chronic mentally ill, addicted, and homeless populations. He also has over 25 years of SCT training and has interest in the possibilities at the intersection of these 2 domains.

Jackie Youngs, . Jackie Youngs is the Program Director of Womanspace Philadelphia, a residential drug and alcohol treatment program for chronically homeless women.

So many of us with the urge to be creative find we don't bring our creative impulses to fruition. What gets in the way? In this artistic experiential workshop members will explore the experience of reducing restraining forces to creative expression and create a work of art in the session. This workshop will be audiorecorded for training and research purposes.

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• State one restraining force that inhibits creative expression
• Demonstrate an ability to de-personalize the challenges of creative expression
• Demonstrate an ability to organize inner person energy in the service of creative expression

Presentation Content

Agazarian’s (1997) theory of living human systems, with its systems-centered approach to group practice, represents a developed and comprehensive systems theory applied to groups, individuals and couples. The theory of living human systems has defined theoretical constructs and operational definitions that implement and test the theoretical hypotheses in its practice. We will use this theory and method to test the hypotheses that SCT methods can reduce the restraining forces to creative expression.This theory and its methods are accepted among group practitioners as evidenced by SCTRI’s 2010 recognition for “Outstanding Contributions in Education and Training in the Field of Group Psychotherapy” awarded by the National Registry of Certified Group Psychotherapists. SCT methods are regularly cited or included in handbooks and reviews of group psychotherapy practice. There is also significant peer-reviewed published support for the theory and its practice, including articles in the International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, Group Dynamics, Small Group Research, Organizational Analysis, and Group Analysis. There is also reference to SCT methods in The Improv Handbook for Modern Quilters demonstrating the use of SCT in improvisational quilting. The systems-centered approach to group and organizational work has been in the field for over 20 years, presented in approximately 30 articles in peer-reviewed professional journals. Its methods incorporate techniques linked to successful strategies for improvement in group and individual psychotherapy, for example, modifying cognitive distortions, increasing group cohesion, lowering scapegoating, and reducing somatic defenses.

Supporting References

Agazarian, Y.M. (1997). Systems-centered therapy for groups. New York, NY: Guilford Press. Re-printed in paperback (2004). London, UK: Karnac Books.

Agazarian, Y.M. (1999). Phases of development in the systems-centered group. Small Group Research, 30(1), 82-107.

Agazarian, Y.M., & Gantt, S.P. (2005). The systems perspective. In S. Wheelan (Ed.), Handbook of group research and practice (pp. 187-200). Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage.

Brabender, V., & Fallon, A. (2008). Group development in practice: Guidance for clinicians and researchers on stages and dynamics of change. Washington, DC: American Psychological Association.

Gantt, S.P., & Agazarian, Y.M. (2007). Phases of system development in organizational work groups: The systems-centered approach for intervening in context. Organisational & Social Dynamics, 7(2), 253-291.

Moreno, J.K. (2007). Scapegoating in group psychotherapy. International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, 57(1), 93-104.

Gantt, S.P., & Agazarian, Y.M. (2010). Developing the group mind through functional subgrouping: Linking systems-centered training (SCT) and interpersonal neurobiology. International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, 60(4), 514-545. doi: 10.1521/ijgp.2010.60.4.515

Wood, S.L. (2015). Improv handbook for modern quilters. New York, NY: Abrams.

O’Neill, R.M., & Constantino, M.J. (2008). Systems-centered training groups’ process and outcome: A comparison with AGPA institute groups. International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, 58(1), 77-102. doi: 10.1521/ijgp.2008.58.1.77

O’Neill, R.M., Constantino, M.J., & Mogle, J. (2012). Does Agazarian’s systems-centered functional subgrouping improve mood, learning and goal achievement?: A study in large groups. Group Analysis, 45, 375-390. doi: 10.1177/0533316412448287

Presenters

Norma Safransky, MD. Norma Safransky, MD, is a psychiatrist and psychotherapist in private practice in Chapel Hill, NC. She has worked since 2011 as an SCT clinician. She began work with Yvonne Agazarian in 2002. She is a licensed Systems-Centered Practitioner. She has led Systems-Centered training events in Chapel Hill, NC, San Francisco, CA, Philadelphia, PA and New York, NY. She has been painting, knitting, sewing, making sculptures and dancing since she was seven years old and has recently picked up the ukelele. She has found SCT practices facilitate her artistic process.

Bring a case study to this two-part interactive session where we will explore applying SCT theory and methods, including SAVI, in working with conflict in organizations. Review and explore examples from our work and from other participants. Create a systems-centered working team to analyze your case studies and explore potential interventions. The working teams will continue to Day Two, with the goal of mapping out a proposed approach that could be used with the organization. Share your group’s work and hear from others, to discover ideas you can apply in your work. Deepen your learning by reflecting on the experience of creating a systems-centered working team using force field analysis.

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Analyze an organizational conflict using the Theory of Living Human Systems and related methods (e.g., SAVI, Phases of Development map; Role, Goal and Context)
• Plan a hypothesis-driven approach, defining role, goal and context, for working with an organizational team in conflict
• Practice forming a systems-centered consultant group in an OD context
• Create a specific design to implement my approach for working with an organizational team in conflict
• Describe 3 ways SAVI can be used to diagnose and intervene with a group in conflict
• Apply force field analysis to identify driving and restraining forces for developing a team

Presentation Content

Agazarian’s (1997) theory of living human systems, with its systems-centered approach to group practice, represents a developed and comprehensive systems theory applied to groups, individuals and couples. The theory of living human systems has defined theoretical constructs and operational definitions that implement and test the theoretical hypotheses in its practice. This theory and its methods are accepted among group practitioners as evidenced by SCTRI’s 2010 recognition for “Outstanding Contributions in Education and Training in the Field of Group Psychotherapy” awarded by the National Registry of Certified Group Psychotherapists. SCT methods are regularly cited or included in handbooks and reviews of group psychotherapy practice. There is also significant peer-reviewed published support for the theory and its practice, including articles in the International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, Group Dynamics, Small Group Research, Organizational Analysis, and Group Analysis. The systems-centered approach to group and organizational work has been in the field for over 20 years, presented in approximately 30 articles in peer-reviewed professional journals. Its methods incorporate techniques linked to successful strategies for improvement in group and individual psychotherapy, for example, modifying cognitive distortions, increasing group cohesion, lowering scapegoating, and reducing somatic defenses. Its contribution to the field of organizational development and leadership is becoming increasingly recognized across both the US and particularly in northern Europe, where practitioners are using it to influence complex organizations.

Supporting References

Agazarian, Y.M. (1997). Systems-centered therapy for groups. New York, NY: Guilford Press. Re-printed in paperback (2004). London, UK: Karnac Books.

Davis, R. (2013). Creating the conditions for all voices to be heard: Strategies for working with differences. e-O&P Journal of the Association for Management Education and Development, 20(1), 23-29.

Davis, R. (2014). Working across organisational boundaries: Shifting from complaining and blaming to problem-solving. e-O&P Journal of the Association for Management Education and Development, 21(3), 22-37.

Gantt, S.P., & Agazarian, Y.M. (Eds.) (2005). SCT in action: Applying the systems-centered approach in organizations. Lincoln, NE: iUniverse. Reprint (2006). London, UK: Karnac Books.

Gantt, S.P., & Agazarian, Y.M. (2007). Phases of system development in organizational work groups: The systems-centered approach for intervening in context. Organizational & Social Dynamics, 7(2), pp. 253-291.

Gantt, S.P. (2005). Functional role-taking in organizations and work groups. Group Psychologist (APA Division 49 newsletter), 15(5), 15.

Gantt, S.P., & Agazarian, Y.M. (2007). Phases of system development in organizational work groups: The systems-centered approach for intervening in context. Organisational & Social Dynamics, 7(2), 253-291.

O’Neill, R.M., Murphy, V., Mogle, J., MacKenzie, M.J., MacGregor, K.L., Pearson, M., & Parekh, M. (2013). Are systems-centered teams more collaborative, productive and creative? Journal of Team Performance Management, 19(3/4), 201-221.

Sundlin, A.L., & Sundlin, P. (2014). Taking up your role: How to shift between life and work without losing yourself. Cambridge, MA: Catalyst Communications Press.

Presenters

Peter Kunneman, BA. Peter Kunneman has a background in organizational consulting. He typically works with organizations that are challenged by changes they find difficult to integrate. Since 2009 Peter is increasingly applying the Theory of Living Human Systems in his work. Currently his focus is on coaching teams in conflict, using Functional Subgrouping as the core method. He discovered that in that work forming subsystems of coaches which are able to contain the fight energy with the client system is a key success factor.

Alida Zweidler-McKay, MBA. Alida Zweidler-McKay has been a consultant and coach since 1996. She works with senior executives and middle managers to develop their leadership skills through one-on-one coaching, leadership development training programs and consulting projects. Alida is a certified SAVI trainer. She has participated in SCT training since 2002 and is working toward becoming a licensed Systems-Centered Practitioner. She has a BA from Swarthmore College and an MBA from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania.

When problematic substance use is a part of a couple’s relationship, it is easy for them to relate to each other as adversaries. This workshop will demonstrate SCT techniques to help a couple shift their perspective from individualism to seeing themselves as a collaborative system. We’ll use a case example to demonstrate techniques for shifting into “member role,” communicating more clearly, and building a system that solves problems effectively.

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Identify two SCT skills that can be used with couples impacted by substance abuse
• Describe one benefit of eliminating scapegoating when working with couples and substance abuse
• Explain one benefit of viewing substance abuse as a problem for the couple (vs. the individual) to solve

Presentation Content

Agazarian’s (1997) theory of living human systems, with its systems-centered approach to group practice, represents a developed and comprehensive systems theory applied to groups, individuals and couples. The theory of living human systems has defined theoretical constructs and operational definitions that implement and test the theoretical hypotheses in its practice. This theory and its methods are accepted among group practitioners as evidenced by SCTRI’s 2010 recognition for “Outstanding Contributions in Education and Training in the Field of Group Psychotherapy” awarded by the National Registry of Certified Group Psychotherapists. SCT methods are regularly cited or included in handbooks and reviews of group psychotherapy practice. There is also significant peer-reviewed published support for the theory and its practice, including articles in the International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, Group Dynamics, Small Group Research, Organizational Analysis, and Group Analysis. Harm reduction is a recognized approach to working with individuals, couples and families impacted by substance abuse. There is a vast professional literature on the harm reduction approach (e.g. Tatarsky, 2002). In this workshop we will use functional subgrouping from SCT to explore how to help couples move from "Me vs. You" to collaboration, and how harm reduction is consistent with SCT theory and practice.

Supporting References

Agazarian, Y.M. (2004). Systems-centered therapy for groups. London, UK: Karnac Books.

Agazarian, Y.M., & Gantt, S.P. (2000). Autobiography of a theory. London, UK: Jessica Kingsley.

Agazarian, Y.M., & Byram, C. (2009). First build the system: The systems-centered approach to combined psychotherapy. GROUP: The Journal of the Eastern Group Psychotherapy Society, 33(2), 129-148.

Havens, G. (2017). Couples, substance use and the role of SCT. Systems-Centered News, 24(2), 12-14.

Tatarsky, A. (Ed.). (2002). Harm reduction psychotherapy: A new treatment for drug and alcohol problems. Northvale, NJ: Aronson.

Presenters

Gayna Havens, Ph.D.. Dr. Havens has a particular interest in helping couples impacted by substance use. She believes in working from both an integrative harm reduction and systems approach, which helps the couple strengthen their ability to create a collaborative vision. A primary focus is for the couple to use the relationship as a resource, and to build ways of communicating with each other that promotes movement toward the goals that they establish. Dr. Havens earned her doctorate in clinical psychology from the New School for Social Research. In addition to previously working in outpatient substance abuse treatment centers, she trained at the Ackerman Institute for the Family, and was a faculty member of the Center for Substance Abuse and Family at the Ackerman Institute for many years. Dr. Havens is currently in private practice in New York City.

Both SCT and religion address the unknown. SCT frames reactions to the unknown in terms of anxiety versus curiosity. For Jewish theologian Abraham Joshua Heschel, the polarities are doubt versus wonder. This workshop will explore the following: Is SCT’s use of curiosity similar to Heschel’s celebration of the unknown and is it possible to bring a religious appreciation for the unknown into our SCT work?

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Compare SCT’s concept of “curiosity” with Heschel’s use of the terms “wonder and awe”
• List one similarity and one difference between SCT’s “anxiety at the edge of the unknown” and Heschel’s concept of “doubt”
• Describe how a religious appreciation for the unknowable might be integrated into SCT practice

Presentation Content

Agazarian’s (1997) theory of living human systems, with its systems-centered approach to group practice, represents a developed and comprehensive systems theory applied to groups, individuals and couples. The theory of living human systems has defined theoretical constructs and operational definitions that implement and test the theoretical hypotheses in its practice. This theory and its methods are accepted among group practitioners as evidenced by SCTRI’s 2010 recognition for “Outstanding Contributions in Education and Training in the Field of Group Psychotherapy” awarded by the National Registry of Certified Group Psychotherapists. SCT methods are regularly cited or included in handbooks and reviews of group psychotherapy practice. There is also significant peer-reviewed published support for the theory and its practice, including articles in the International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, Group Dynamics, Small Group Research, Organizational Analysis, and Group Analysis. The systems-centered approach to group and organizational work has been in the field for over 20 years, presented in approximately 30 articles in peer-reviewed professional journals. Its methods incorporate techniques linked to successful strategies for improvement in group and individual psychotherapy, for example, modifying cognitive distortions, increasing group cohesion, lowering scapegoating, and reducing somatic defenses. Abraham Joshua Heschel (1907 -1971) was one of the 20th Century’s most prominent and influential Jewish theologians and philosophers. His theological works are widely read and characterize religious experience as universally human. He was active in the US Civil Rights Movement, participating with Martin Luther King in the Selma Civil Rights March.

Supporting References

Agazarian, Y.M. (1997). Systems-centered therapy for groups. New York, NY: Guilford Press. Re-printed in paperback (2004). London, UK: Karnac Books.

Agazarian, Y.M., & Gantt, S.P. (2005). The systems perspective. In S. Wheelan (Ed.), Handbook of group research and practice (pp. 187-200). Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage.

Heschel, A.J. (1951). Man is not alone: A philosophy of religion. New York, NY: Farrar, Straus & Young. Re-issued in paperback (1976). New York, NY: Farrar, Straus & Giroux.

Presenters

Neal Spivack, Ph.D., CGP, FAGPA. Dr. Neal Spivack is a clinical psychologist for the Veterans Administration (VA) at the Manhattan Campus of the New York Harbor Healthcare System. He is a Certified Group Psychotherapist (CGP) and a Fellow of AGPA (FAGPA). Dr. Spivack has been a member of the monthly SCT training group run by Yvonne Agazarian and Fran Carter for approximately 12 years and is currently at the intermediate training level within SCT. He is a member of SCTRI’s newsletter workgroup. Outside of SCT, he served 11 years on the Board of Directors of the Eastern Group Psychotherapy Society (EGPS), including as President from 2011- 2013. He teaches and supervises group psychotherapy at the VA and the EGPS One Year Training Program and has made numerous presentations at the AGPA, SCT, and EGPS annual conferences.

This participatory workshop will apply the recent developments in SCT theory to real life examples supplied by participants which demonstrate how we get induced into a "me vs. you" dynamic. We will use these examples to explore possible interventions through role plays and functional subgrouping.

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Identify and describe at least one interpersonal scenario which triggers one of my own survival roles
• Describe how to use the SCT Person-as-a-System chart to identify the system’s current phase of development
• Describe how we can use the SCT Person-as-a-System chart to form hypotheses for intervention

Presentation Content

Agazarian’s (1997) theory of living human systems, with its systems-centered approach to group practice, represents a developed and comprehensive systems theory applied to groups, individuals and couples. The theory of living human systems has defined theoretical constructs and operational definitions that implement and test the theoretical hypotheses in its practice. This theory and its methods are accepted among group practitioners as evidenced by SCTRI’s 2010 recognition for “Outstanding Contributions in Education and Training in the Field of Group Psychotherapy” awarded by the National Registry of Certified Group Psychotherapists. SCT methods are regularly cited or included in handbooks and reviews of group psychotherapy practice. There is also significant peer-reviewed published support for the theory and its practice, including articles in the International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, Group Dynamics, Small Group Research, Organizational Analysis, and Group Analysis. The systems-centered approach to group and organizational work has been in the field for over 20 years, presented in approximately 30 articles in peer-reviewed professional journals. Its methods incorporate techniques linked to successful strategies for improvement in group and individual psychotherapy, for example, modifying cognitive distortions, increasing group cohesion, lowering scapegoating, and reducing somatic defenses. This workshop will consider how to adapt the application of the SCT protocols to the dyadic system in order to build a therapeutic system and explore how the emergence of information in both the client and therapist system can be used towards the therapeutic goals. It will also explore how each therapist intervention is a hypothesis at the edge of the unknown based on the Theory of Living Human Systems.

Supporting References

Agazarian, Y.M. (1997). Systems-centered therapy for groups. New York, NY: Guilford Press. Re-printed in paperback (2004). London, UK: Karnac Books.

Agazarian, Y.M. (1999). Phases of development in the systems-centered group. Small Group Research, 30(1), 82-107.

Gantt, S.P. , & Agazarian, Y.M. (Eds.) (2006). Systems-centered therapy: In clinical practice with individuals, families and groups. Livermore, CA: WingSpan Press. Reprint (2011). London, UK: Karnac Books.

Gantt, S.P., & Agazarian, Y.M. (2010). Developing the group mind through functional subgrouping: Linking systems-centered training (SCT) and interpersonal neurobiology. International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, (60)4, 514-545. doi: 10.1521/ijgp.2010.60.4.515

Presenters

Dorothy Gibbons, MSS, LCSW. Dorothy Gibbons, MSS, LCSW, is a licensed Systems-Centered Practitioner. She is in private practice in Philadelphia, PA. She works with individuals, groups, and couples. She also works as an organizational consultant to a social service agency in Philadelphia. Ms. Gibbons is the former Director of the Adolescent Sex Offender Unit at the Joseph J. Peters Institute in Philadelphia and has extensive experience working with both victims and offenders of sexual abuse. She is on the Board of Directors of the Systems-Centered Training and Research Institute. She is also a graduate of the Gestalt Therapy Institute of Philadelphia.

Ray Haddock, MBChB, M.MedSc, FRCPsych. Dr. Ray Haddock, MBChB, M.MedSc, FRCPsych, Member of Institute of Group Analysis, Licensed Systems-Centered Practitioner. Qualified in medicine in 1982, trained in Psychiatry then in Psychotherapy in Leeds (UK). He has wide experience of leading SCT training groups and workshops in UK, Europe and the USA. He has practiced as a Consultant Medical Psychotherapist in the UK for over 20 years and has also had a number of management roles in the NHS, including service development and implementation of training programs for psychiatry trainees. He teaches psychotherapy based on SCT to junior psychiatrists and psychotherapy trainees for over 20 years. Clinically he uses SCT in individual and group therapy and has developed a manual to support this work. He uses the Theory of Living Human Systems in day-to-day organizational work, consultation and leadership.

Functional subgrouping is a conflict resolution method. What happens when we use it to explore opinions and beliefs which generate strong and contentious differences? In this workshop we will offer a contentious issue which genuinely splits the group (we hope!) - and see what happens when we explore each side using functional subgrouping, to see what integrations are possible, and what the experience is like.

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Describe one impact functional subgrouping can have on the communication climate
• Assess the impact of functional subgrouping on conflict resolution where differences of opinion are high
• Assess how functional subgrouping can be used where opinions are the major differences

Presentation Content

Systems-centered practice in groups has been developed from the application of the Theory of Living Human Systems to weaken the restraining forces to system development. SCT methods are regularly cited or included in handbooks and reviews of group psychotherapy practice. There is also significant peer-reviewed published support for the theory and its practice. This workshop will apply the central technique of SCT to political discourse.

Supporting References

Agazarian, Y.M. (1997). Systems-centered therapy for groups. New York, NY: Guilford Press. Re-printed in paperback (2004). London, UK: Karnac Books.

Agazarian, Y.M., & Gantt, S.P. (2005). The systems perspective. In S. Wheelan (Ed.), Handbook of group research and practice. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage.

Agazarian, Y.M., & Gantt, S.P. (2003). Phases of group development: Systems-centered hypotheses and their implications for research and practice. Group Dynamics: Theory, Research and Practice, 7(3), pp.238-252.

Presenters

Mike Maher, MA, PGCE. Mike Maher, MA, PGCE, is a psychotherapist, trainer and organizational consultant. He is a Licensed SCT Practitioner and Director of SCTRI and leads two ongoing SCT training groups. He was Deputy Director in a Therapeutic Community and subsequently he has developed a specialism in working with staff who work with client groups - adolescents and adults - characterized by their challenging natures. He has written papers and book chapters in working with staff groups, organizational issues in mental health reform, managing self-harm behaviors and other subjects, and has presented at many national and international conferences.

Similarities between SCT’s undoing survival roles and Social Presencing Theater's (SPT) “Stuck” exercise will be explored in this workshop. We will practice allowing our “old role” to take a physical form to increase awareness of our body-based sensations and feelings. Through non-verbal techniques we will investigate how our ability to access information through our bodies increases our potential toward taking up a centered, freer and contextualized role.

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Describe one insight about one of my survival roles
• Identify three practical applications of using the "Stuck" exercise for undoing old survival roles
• Identify three similarities and three differences between SCT & SPT

Presentation Content

Social Presencing Theater (SPT) is one of the most important and effective methods developed by the Presencing Institute, an awareness-based action-research community for profound individual and institutional renewal. Over the past two decades, the Presencing Institute has developed Theory U and Social Presencing Theater as social technologies, used to lead cross-sector change initiatives worldwide. SPT was developed under the leadership of Arawana Hayashi, and has been used effectively for over ten years in business, government, and civil society settings, in places including Brazil, Indonesia, China, Europe and the United States. Agazarian’s (1997) theory of living human systems, with its systems-centered approach to group practice, represents a developed and comprehensive systems theory applied to groups, individuals and couples. The theory of living human systems has defined theoretical constructs and operational definitions that implement and test the theoretical hypotheses in its practice. This theory and its methods are accepted among group practitioners as evidenced by SCTRI’s 2010 recognition for “Outstanding Contributions in Education and Training in the Field of Group Psychotherapy” awarded by the National Registry of Certified Group Psychotherapists. SCT methods are regularly cited or included in handbooks and reviews of group psychotherapy practice. There is also significant peer-reviewed published support for the theory and its practice, including articles in the International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, Group Dynamics, Small Group Research, Organizational Analysis, and Group Analysis.

Supporting References

Agazarian, Y.M. (2011). Systems-centered core skills. SCT foundation manual.

Gantt, S.P., & Agazarian, Y.M. (Eds.) (2006). Systems-centered therapy: In clinical practice with individuals, families and groups. Livermore, CA: WingSpan Press. Reprint (2011). London, UK: Karnac Books.

Hayashi, A., & Yukelson, A. (2013). Social presencing theater - Manual for practice groups.

Scharmer, C.O. (2009). Theory U: Leading from the future as it emerges. San Francisco, CA: Berrett-Koehler.

Van der Kolk, B. (2014). The body keeps the score: Brain, mind, and body in the healing of trauma. New York, NY: Viking Penguin.

Presenters

Ivette Guillermo-McGahee, MA, MHC, LPC, ACS. Ivette Guillermo-McGahee, is the founder and CEO of Allies In Caring, Inc., a New Jersey nonprofit providing mental health counseling and educational services for Latino, Deaf and other undeserved populations. Her experience as a Mexican-born child of Deaf parents, has provided profound understanding of the potential for growth that lies within the hardships that are a part of the human experience. Ivette founded Allies In Caring in 2012 determined to tend to the abilities and strength in people rather than focusing only on their deficits or illnesses. AIC helps families thrive and develop into more skillful, mindful, and compassionate human beings, while working through the adversity in their lives. Her professional training includes a Master in Mental Health Counseling from Gallaudet University, D.C. She has had extensive post-graduate training in Multicultural Therapy, Systems-Centered Training (SCT), Trauma Focus - CBT, and in Mindfulness Based Interventions. Additionally, she studies and practices Theory U and Social Presenting Theater.

Mery Miguez, SPT approved teacher, NLPM. Mery Miguez is a Social Presencing Theater teacher, arts facilitator, meditation teacher and changemaker. She is also a certified Masters Neuro-Linguistic Programming, Marin style practitioner (NLPM). Her personal arts practice is Theater Clowning. For the past 15 years, she has had a professional career in contemplative practices which includes teaching and hosting meditation retreats and workshops around the US and Europe. In 2014, she completed her studies of Advanced Social Presencing Theater under the auspices of the Presencing Institute at MIT with Arawana Hayashi and Otto Scharmer. She has been involved in facilitating several U-Labs, both in person and virtually (in English and in Spanish) since the launch of the first edX MOOC in January of 2015.

Bring a case study to this two-part interactive session where we will explore applying SCT theory and methods, including SAVI, in working with conflict in organizations. Review and explore examples from our work and from other participants. Create a systems-centered working team to analyze your case studies and explore potential interventions. The working teams will continue to Day Two, with the goal of mapping out a proposed approach that could be used with the organization. Share your group’s work and hear from others, to discover ideas you can apply in your work. Deepen your learning by reflecting on the experience of creating a systems-centered working team using force field analysis.

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Analyze an organizational conflict using the Theory of Living Human Systems and related methods (e.g., SAVI, Phases of Development map; Role, Goal and Context)
• Plan a hypothesis-driven approach, defining role, goal and context, for working with an organizational team in conflict
• Practice forming a systems-centered consultant group in an OD context
• Create a specific design to implement my approach for working with an organizational team in conflict
• Describe 3 ways SAVI can be used to diagnose and intervene with a group in conflict
• Apply force field analysis to identify driving and restraining forces for developing a team

Presentation Content

Agazarian’s (1997) theory of living human systems, with its systems-centered approach to group practice, represents a developed and comprehensive systems theory applied to groups, individuals and couples. The theory of living human systems has defined theoretical constructs and operational definitions that implement and test the theoretical hypotheses in its practice. This theory and its methods are accepted among group practitioners as evidenced by SCTRI’s 2010 recognition for “Outstanding Contributions in Education and Training in the Field of Group Psychotherapy” awarded by the National Registry of Certified Group Psychotherapists. SCT methods are regularly cited or included in handbooks and reviews of group psychotherapy practice. There is also significant peer-reviewed published support for the theory and its practice, including articles in the International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, Group Dynamics, Small Group Research, Organizational Analysis, and Group Analysis. The systems-centered approach to group and organizational work has been in the field for over 20 years, presented in approximately 30 articles in peer-reviewed professional journals. Its methods incorporate techniques linked to successful strategies for improvement in group and individual psychotherapy, for example, modifying cognitive distortions, increasing group cohesion, lowering scapegoating, and reducing somatic defenses. Its contribution to the field of organizational development and leadership is becoming increasingly recognized across both the US and particularly in northern Europe, where practitioners are using it to influence complex organizations.

Supporting References

Agazarian, Y.M. (1997). Systems-centered therapy for groups. New York, NY: Guilford Press. Re-printed in paperback (2004). London, UK: Karnac Books.

Davis, R. (2013). Creating the conditions for all voices to be heard: Strategies for working with differences. e-O&P Journal of the Association for Management Education and Development, 20(1), 23-29.

Davis, R. (2014). Working across organisational boundaries: Shifting from complaining and blaming to problem-solving. e-O&P Journal of the Association for Management Education and Development, 21(3), 22-37.

Gantt, S.P., & Agazarian, Y.M. (Eds.) (2005). SCT in action: Applying the systems-centered approach in organizations. Lincoln, NE: iUniverse. Reprint (2006). London, UK: Karnac Books.

Gantt, S.P., & Agazarian, Y.M. (2007). Phases of system development in organizational work groups: The systems-centered approach for intervening in context. Organizational & Social Dynamics, 7(2), pp. 253-291.

Gantt, S.P. (2005). Functional role-taking in organizations and work groups. Group Psychologist (APA Division 49 newsletter), 15(5), 15.

Gantt, S.P., & Agazarian, Y.M. (2007). Phases of system development in organizational work groups: The systems-centered approach for intervening in context. Organisational & Social Dynamics, 7(2), 253-291.

O’Neill, R.M., Murphy, V., Mogle, J., MacKenzie, M.J., MacGregor, K.L., Pearson, M., & Parekh, M. (2013). Are systems-centered teams more collaborative, productive and creative? Journal of Team Performance Management, 19(3/4), 201-221.

Sundlin, A.L., & Sundlin, P. (2014). Taking up your role: How to shift between life and work without losing yourself. Cambridge, MA: Catalyst Communications Press.

Presenters

Peter Kunneman, BA. Peter Kunneman has a background in organizational consulting. He typically works with organizations that are challenged by changes they find difficult to integrate. Since 2009 Peter is increasingly applying the Theory of Living Human Systems in his work. Currently his focus is on coaching teams in conflict, using Functional Subgrouping as the core method. He discovered that in that work forming subsystems of coaches which are able to contain the fight energy with the client system is a key success factor.

Alida Zweidler-McKay, MBA. Alida Zweidler-McKay has been a consultant and coach since 1996. She works with senior executives and middle managers to develop their leadership skills through one-on-one coaching, leadership development training programs and consulting projects. Alida is a certified SAVI trainer. She has participated in SCT training since 2002 and is working toward becoming a licensed Systems-Centered Practitioner. She has a BA from Swarthmore College and an MBA from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania.

Unidentified inner person survival roles, ours and our clients, while helpful at some point in our pasts, interfere with attunement, empathy, and authentic connection in the therapy system. This workshop will explore ways to feel, see, and intervene with survivor roles, with the goal of identifying turning points that close boundaries and lead to old, repetitive patterns, versus ones that open up to curious observer energy and the possibility of developing more rewarding inter person role systems.

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Name three inner person survivor alerts to look for in therapy, in ourselves and our clients, that let us know that a survival role is likely operating
• Describe three interventions to increase a client’s or therapist's capacity to explore and come out of a survival role once an alert has been identified
• Articulate one of the functions of the fork-in-the-road in working with inner person survival alerts

Presentation Content

This presentation focuses on helping participants understand one of the most recent developments in the theory of living human systems (TLHS), the introduction of role systems into the theory (inner person, inter-person, and person-as-a-whole), and on gaining experience with some ways the theory can be applied in clinical settings through the use of experiential exercises involving the systems-centered therapy (SCT) technique of fork-in-the road. SCT has initial empirical support in the psychotherapy context (Ladden, Gantt, Rude & Agazarian, 2007) and its methods were recognized by the National Registry of Certified Group Psychotherapists as making a significant contribution to the field of group therapy. Multiple SCT seminars have also been presented on a yearly basis at the American Group Psychotherapy Association (AGPA) Annual Conference. Two recent AGPA presentations focused on an important area for therapy in our current world, PTSD (Agazarian, Gantt, Goltra & Green, 2016, 2017). These presentations also provided updates on the centrality of role systems in SCT, which is one of the central foci of the current seminar. SCT methods are regularly cited or included in handbooks and reviews of group psychotherapy practice. There is also significant peer-reviewed published support for the theory and its practice, including articles in the International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, Group Dynamics, Small Group Research, Organizational Analysis, and Group Analysis.

Supporting References

Agazarian, Y.M. (1997). Systems-centered therapy for groups. New York, NY: Guilford Press. Re-printed in paperback (2004). London, UK: Karnac Books.

Agazarian, Y.M., & Gantt, S.P. (2005). The systems perspective. In S. Wheelan (Ed.), Handbook of group research and practice (pp. 187-200). Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage.

Agazarian, Y.M., & Gantt, S.P. (2014). Systems-centered training with couples: Building marriages that work. Systemic Thinking & Psychotherapy, 5. Downloaded from: http://www.hestafta.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=106:systems-centered-training-with-couples-building-marriages-that-work&catid=24&Itemid=105

Agazarian, Y.M., Gantt, S.P., Goltra, P.H,, & Greene, L. (2016). A systems-centered view of trauma and annihilation anxiety in the systems of person, group, and large groups. Presented at the annual meeting of the American Group Psychotherapy Association. Audio recording available from AGPA, New York.

Agazarian, Y. A., Gantt, S., Goltra, P., & Greene, L. (2017). The systems-centered view of trauma and annihilation anxiety in the systems of person, small groups, and large groups. Presented at the annual meeting of the American Group Psychotherapy Association, New York.

Ferguson, C. J. (2015). “Everybody knows psychology is not a real science”: Public perceptions of psychology and how we can improve our relationship with policymakers, the scientific community, and the general public. American Psychologist, 70(6), 527-542. doi: 10.1037/a0039405

Ladden, L.J., Gantt, S.P., Rude, S., & Agazarian, Y.M. (2007). Systems-centered therapy: A protocol for treating generalized anxiety disorder. Journal of Contemporary Psychotherapy 37, 61-70. doi: 10.1007/s10879-006-9037-6

Resick, P.A., Monson, C.M, Gutner, C.A., & Maslej, M.M. (2014). Psychosocial treatments for adults with PTSD. In M.J. Friedman, T.M. Keane, & P.A. Resick (Eds.), Handbook of PTSD: Science and practice, (2nd edition), (pp. 419-436). New York, NY: Guilford Press.

Presenters

Dick Ganley, Ph.D.. Dick Ganley is a licensed SCT practitioner, the Research Director for SCTRI, and is in private practice just outside of Philadelphia, with active involvement in bringing SCT into the larger world through psychotherapy research, especially therapy focused on PTSD. He is currently writing up single-case studies for publication, with Jacquie Mogle, Ph.D., from Penn State University, and they hope to extend the research to doing groups with veterans who have combat-related PTSD. Dick holds a doctoral degree in clinical psychology from Temple University, and is a certified group psychotherapist. He has given five previous workshops/presentations at the annual SCTRI conferences, and has presented at national conferences for the American Psychological Association, and the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy, as wells at numerous state and local conferences.

Norma Safransky, MD. Norma Safransky, MD, is a psychiatrist and licensed SCT therapist in private practice in NC. She graduated medical school from UNC School of Medicine in Chapel Hill NC and completed her residency in psychiatry at UNC Hospitals in 1992. She has presented workshops on SCT theory and practice to Kaiser Permante in San Francisco, CA , the UNC chaplaincy program at UNC Hospitals, at AGPA, at the NE Group Psychotherapy Association and at the annual SCT Conferences.

Rick Campa, Ph.D. . Rick Campa, Ph.D., is a licensed psychologist in private practice in Austin, Texas. Rick earned his Ph.D. in clinical psychology at Boston University in 1991 and trained at McLean Hospital in Belmont, Massachusetts, for his internship and for an additional year as a post-doctorate fellow. In 1991, he moved to Texas to serve as director of the Psychiatric Intensive Care Unit at the San Antonio State Hospital, and later moved to Austin to open a private practice. Rick currently divides his time between the roles of full-time husband and father of two children, psychotherapist in private practice working with individuals, couples, and groups, and psychological consult to the State of Texas making determinations for the federal Social Security Disability program. Rick began studying System-Centered training in 1998 and is currently a licensed Systems-Centered practitioner.

What happens when we fall in love? One way of describing this state of temporary madness is via the concept of projective identification; another way would be to consider how we might use the SCT concept of old seductive intimacy role systems to attract and catch the object of our affections. How do we recover from falling? What happens when we land? This workshop will explore theory and participants' experience of falling in love and see what we learn together.

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Describe the experience of falling in love through reference to the mechanism of projective identification
• Describe the experience of falling in love through reference to the mechanism of role induction
• Compare how the experiences of falling in love fit with the theories

Presentation Content

Systems-centered practice in groups has been developed from the application of the Theory of Living Human Systems to weaken the restraining forces to system development. SCT methods are regularly cited or included in handbooks and reviews of group psychotherapy practice. There is also significant peer-reviewed published support for the theory and its practice. This workshop will apply some SCT theoretical constructs to the experience of falling in love.

Supporting References

Agazarian, Y.M. (1997). Systems-centered therapy for groups. New York, NY: Guilford Press. Re-printed in paperback (2004). London, UK: Karnac Books.

Ogden, T.H. (1979). On projective identification. International Journal of Psycho-Analysis, 60, 357-373.

Agazarian, Y.M., & Gantt, S.P. (2003). Phases of group development: Systems-centered hypotheses and their implications for research and practice. Group Dynamics: Theory, Research and Practice, 7(3), 238-252.

Presenters

Mike Maher, MA, PGCE. Mike Maher, MA, PGCE, is a psychotherapist, trainer and organizational consultant. He is a Licensed SCT Practitioner and Director of SCTRI and leads two ongoing SCT training groups. He was Deputy Director in a Therapeutic Community and subsequently he has developed a specialism in working with staff who work with client groups -adolescents and adults - characterized by their challenging natures. He has written papers and book chapters in working with staff groups, organizational issues in mental health reform, managing self-harm behaviors and other subjects, and has presented at many national and international conferences.

The military is the country’s survival system, and military service strengthens recruits’ inner person Survivor. Military personnel habituate to discipline, adrenalin-driven conflict, and “Band of Brothers” relationships but can also become alienated from low intensity, choice-filled, interpersonally complex civilian contexts. This workshop will use clips from the movie "The Hurt Locker" to explore the military-survivor role and how SCT can help vets access their Curious Observer as civilians.

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Describe how military service strengthens the inner person survival system of service personnel
• List three common readjustment challenges facing veterans
• Identify two ways that SCT can help veterans manage the transition to civilian life

Presentation Content

Agazarian’s (1997) theory of living human systems, with its systems-centered approach to group practice, represents a developed and comprehensive systems theory applied to groups, individuals and couples. The theory of living human systems has defined theoretical constructs and operational definitions that implement and test the theoretical hypotheses in its practice. This theory and its methods are accepted among group practitioners as evidenced by SCTRI’s 2010 recognition for “Outstanding Contributions in Education and Training in the Field of Group Psychotherapy” awarded by the National Registry of Certified Group Psychotherapists. SCT methods are regularly cited or included in handbooks and reviews of group psychotherapy practice. There is also significant peer-reviewed published support for the theory and its practice, including articles in the International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, Group Dynamics, Small Group Research, Organizational Analysis, and Group Analysis. The systems-centered approach to group and organizational work has been in the field for over 20 years, presented in approximately 30 articles in peer-reviewed professional journals. Its methods incorporate techniques linked to successful strategies for improvement in group and individual psychotherapy, for example, modifying cognitive distortions, increasing group cohesion, lowering scapegoating, and reducing somatic defenses. SCT treatment helps individuals to understand their context so that they can adapt and contribute as members according to their setting and role. This is a particular challenge for veterans who are readjusting to civilian life, moving from a highly structured military system to a more varied and diverse civilian setting (Ahern, et. al., 2015). This workshop will examine how SCT can help veterans with this transition.

Supporting References

Agazarian, Y.M. (1997). Systems-centered therapy for groups. New York, NY: Guilford Press. Re-printed in paperback (2004). London, UK: Karnac Books.

Agazarian, Y.M., & Gantt, S.P. (2005). The systems perspective. In S. Wheelan (Ed.), Handbook of group research and practice (pp. 187-200). Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage.

Ahern, J., Worthen, M., Masters, J., Lippman, S.A., Ozer, E.J., & Moos, R. (2015). The Challenges of Afghanistan and Iraq Veterans’ Transition from Military to Civilian Life and Approaches to Reconnection. PLoS ONE 10(7): e0128599. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0128599

Bigelow, K. (Director). (2009). The Hurt Locker [Motion picture on DVD]. United States: Summit Entertainment, LLC.

Wray, L.O., Pikoff, E., King, P.R., Hutchison, D., Beehler, G P., & Maisto, S.A. (2016). Veterans’ mental health beliefs: Facilitators and barriers to primary care-mental health use. Families, Systems & Health, 34(4), 404-413. doi:10.1037/fsh0000231

Presenters

Neal Spivack, Ph.D., CGP, FAGPA. Dr. Neal Spivack is a clinical psychologist for the Veterans Administration (VA) at the Manhattan Campus of the New York Harbor Healthcare System. He is a Certified Group Psychotherapist (CGP) and a Fellow of AGPA (FAGPA). Dr. Spivack has been a member of the monthly SCT training group run by Yvonne Agazarian and Fran Carter for approximately 12 years and is currently at the intermediate training level within SCT. He is a member of SCTRI’s newsletter workgroup. Outside of SCT, he served 11 years on the Board of Directors of the Eastern Group Psychotherapy Society (EGPS), including as President from 2011- 2013. He teaches and supervises group psychotherapy at the VA and the EGPS One Year Training Program and has made numerous presentations at the AGPA, SCT, and EGPS annual conferences.

We are challenged to hear and recognize the communication patterns that support “us vs. them” roles and the communication patterns of “we.” Through the SAVI map of our communication behavior we will explore the language of our past adaptive roles and our present adaptive roles as well as their differing impacts on the system-as-a-whole.

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Identify the difference between a past survival role and a present adaptive role
• Describe two communication patterns signaling survival and present adaptive roles
• Give one example of a communication output that contributes to a climate of "we"

Presentation Content

Behavioral observation systems are well-established in the research and clinical fields. This particular model, System for Analyzing Verbal Interaction, has been used for research in 4 dissertations, reported as a group process tool in 4 peer-reviewed publications, and is currently used for data collection in 3 as yet unpublished ongoing studies. It has a sound theoretical base in both field theory (Kurt Lewin) and information theory (Shannon), and builds on the work of Bales and others who developed observation systems to study classroom interactions.

Supporting References

Agazarian, Y.M., & Gantt, S.P. (2000). Autobiography of a theory: Developing a theory of living human systems and its systems-centered practice. London, UK: Jessica Kingsley.

Byram, C., Marshall, E., & Simon, A. Red, yellow, green: Modifying communication patterns in an elementary school system. In S.P. Gantt & Y.M. Agazarian (Eds.), SCT in action: Applying the systems-centered approach in organizations (pp. 99-128). Lincoln, NE: iUniverse. Reprint (2006). London, UK: Karnac Books.

Simon, A. (1993). Using SAVI for couples' therapy. Journal of Family Psychotherapy, 4, 39-62.

Simon, A., & Agazarian, Y.M. (2000). SAVI - The system for analyzing verbal interaction. In A.P. Beck & C.M. Lewis (Eds.), The process of group psychotherapy: Systems for analyzing change (pp. 357-380). Washington, D.C.: American Psychological Association.

Presenters

Claudia Byram, Ph.D., CGP. Claudia Byram is a licensed Systems-Centered Practitioner with a clinical practice in Philadelphia. She leads Systems-Centered training events, as well as communications training and consultation in the SAVI (System for Analyzing Verbal Interaction) model. She has worked since 1980 as a clinician and trainer, with a doctorate in developmental and clinical psychology from Bryn Mawr College. She began work with Yvonne Agazarian in the early 80s, shifting from psychoanalytic practice toward systems as systems-centered therapy developed.

Frances Carter, MSS, LSW, CGP. Frances Carter, MSS, LSW, CGP, is a Licensed Social Worker, living and working in the Philadelphia area. She maintains a clinical and consulting practice working with individuals, couples, groups and organizations. Fran is a founding member of the Systems-Centered Training and Research Institute, and a Board Member and System Mentor. She continues to be interested in the development of training, curriculum and research and has contributed her time to these work groups within SCTRI. She is a licensed Systems-Centered Practitioner and a senior trainer, leading workshops, ongoing training and consultation groups and intensive training blocks throughout the US and Europe. She is also a principle in SAVI Communications and the SAVI Network where she works with others to develop training in the SAVI approach to communication. She brings to all her work the energy and creativity of her early background as an artist.

This workshop ends the Conference with a focus on leading edges in SCT and specifically extends SCT’s role system map by linking it to the neuroscience of our social brains. The neuroscience both heightens our practice with this map and provides an important normalizing framework for not personalizing how our human brains function.

Learning Objectives

Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:

• Differentiate between how mapping role system outputs of explaining which activates top down invariant experience and exploring which orients to bottom up or spontaneous experience can be useful in system development
• Apply functional subgrouping to develop role systems at all system levels and potentiate greater neural integration within and between system levels
• Identify the experiential conditions that develop our social brain resources and promote neural development
• Describe how using functional subgrouping for lowering reactivity to difference develops inter-person resources and social brain development and lowers the activation of survival systems
• Describe how to use functional subgrouping for increasing social engagement system
• Describe how to use functional subgrouping for increasing group's capacity for exploring novelty

Presentation Content

Agazarian’s (1997) theory of living human systems, with its systems-centered approach to group practice, represents a developed and comprehensive systems theory applied to groups, individuals and couples. The theory of living human systems has defined theoretical constructs and operational definitions that implement and test the theoretical hypotheses in its practice. This theory and its methods are accepted among group practitioners as evidenced by SCTRI’s 2010 recognition for “Outstanding Contributions in Education and Training in the Field of Group Psychotherapy” awarded by the National Registry of Certified Group Psychotherapists. SCT methods are regularly cited or included in handbooks and reviews of group psychotherapy practice. There is also significant peer-reviewed published support for the theory and its practice, including articles in the International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, Group Dynamics, Small Group Research, Organizational Analysis, and Group Analysis.

Supporting References

Agazarian, Y.M. (1997). Systems-centered therapy for groups. New York, NY: Guilford Press.

Cozolino, L. (2017). The neuroscience of psychotherapy: Healing the social brain. New York, NY: Norton.

Gantt, S.P. (2011). Functional subgrouping and the systems-centered approach to group therapy. In J. Kleinberg (Ed.), The Wiley-Blackwell handbook of group psychotherapy (pp. 113-138). Oxford, UK: Wiley.

Gantt, S.P., & Agazarian, Y.M. (2010). Developing the group mind through functional subgrouping: Linking systems-centered training (SCT) and interpersonal neurobiology. International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, 60(4), 515-544. doi: 10.1521/ijgp.2010.60.4.515

Gantt, S.P., & Agazarian, Y.M. (2013). Developing the group mind through functional subgrouping: Linking systems-centered training (SCT) and interpersonal neurobiology. In Gantt, S.P., & Badenoch, B. (Eds.), The interpersonal neurobiology of group psychotherapy and group process (pp. 73-102). London, UK: Karnac Books.

Gantt, S.P., & Agazarian, Y.M. (2017). Systems-centered group therapy. International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, 67(sup1), S60-S70. doi: 10.1080/00207284.2016.1218768

Gantt, S.P. & Badenoch, B. (2018). Systems-centered group psychotherapy: Developing a group mind that supports right brain function and right-left-right hemispheric integration. In R. Tweedy (Ed.), The divided therapist: Hemispheric difference and contemporary psychotherapy. London, UK: Karnac Books.

Siegel, D.J. (2012). The developing mind (2nd ed.). New York, NY: Guilford Press.

Presenters

Susan P. Gantt, Ph.D., ABPP, CGP, DFAGPA, FAPA. Susan P. Gantt, Ph.D., ABPP, CGP, DFAGPA, FAPA, is a psychologist in private practice in Atlanta and Emerita faculty at Emory University School of Medicine, Psychiatry department, where she taught and coordinated group psychotherapy training for 29 years. She is the Chair of the Systems-Centered Training and Research Institute, which was recognized with the 2010 Award for Outstanding Contributions in Education and Training in the Field of Group Psychotherapy by the National Registry of Certified Group Psychotherapists. She trains, supervises and consults in the practice of SCT in the US and Europe and leads ongoing training groups for therapists and consultants in Atlanta, San Francisco and the Netherlands. She has published numerous journal articles and co-authored the texts Autobiography of a Theory, SCT in Action, and Systems-Centered Therapy: Clinical Practice with Individuals, Families & Groups with Yvonne Agazarian. She co-edited the book The Interpersonal Neurobiology of Group Psychotherapy and Group Process with Bonnie Badenoch in 2013. She was awarded the 2011 Alonso Award for Excellence in Psychodynamic Group Psychotherapy by the Group Psychotherapy Foundation for her work in editing (with Paul Cox) the special issue of the International Journal of Group Psychotherapy on “Neurobiology and Interpersonal Systems: Groups, Couples and Beyond.”

Claudia Byram, Ph.D., CGP. Claudia Byram, Ph.D., CGP, is a licensed Systems-Centered Practitioner with a clinical practice in Philadelphia. She leads Systems-Centered training events, as well as communications training and consultation in the SAVI (System for Analyzing Verbal Interaction) model. She has worked since 1980 as a clinician and trainer, with a doctorate in developmental and clinical psychology from Bryn Mawr College. She began work with Yvonne Agazarian in the early 80s, shifting from psychoanalytic practice toward systems as systems-centered therapy developed.

Frances B. Carter, MSS, LSW, CGP. Frances Carter, MSS, LSW, CGP, is a Licensed Social Worker living and working in the Philadelphia area. She maintains a clinical and consulting practice working with individuals, couples, groups and organizations. Fran is a founding member of the Systems-Centered Training and Research Institute, and a Board Member and System Mentor. She continues to be interested in the development of training, curriculum and research and has contributed her time to these work groups within SCTRI. She is a licensed Systems-Centered Practitioner and a senior trainer, leading workshops, ongoing training and consultation groups and intensive training blocks throughout the US and Europe. She is also a partner and Senior trainer in SAVI Communications and the SAVI Network where she works with others to develop training in the SAVI approach to communication.