President's Message
Hello, it’s a pleasure to welcome you to the society’s website. Come on in, browse a while, and see what exciting things we are doing. We’d very much like to get you as an involved member enthusiastic about group psychology and group psychotherapy.
Let me tell you about five of the current initiatives and ideas. Each description has a link to the committee or initiative chair, and you are encouraged to connect with that person for more information, and hopefully to volunteer your time and expertise.
A foundation was established under the American Psychology Foundation (APF) to provide awards, scholarships and the like when sufficient funds are raised. We are well on our way to having the minimum $100,000 needed, but can always use fund raising ideas and monetary contribution. Jean Keim is heading up this initiative.
Another initiative is to get group psychology and group psychotherapy recognized as a specialty and this involves writing a document to support the application. Maria Riva is spearheading the task, and your thoughts and expertise could be helpful.
The Development Committee is charged with marketing and publicity, and is the incubator of ideas for the Society. We are open to the thoughts and ideas about promoting groups, attracting and retaining members, and in providing research, education and training for group leaders. The committee chair is Kathy Ritter.
The Editorial Committee is developing a series of books on group facilitation topics, and if you are interested in writing a book, contact the chair, Nina Brown.
We are very interested in getting early career psychologists involved with the organization and value their input and suggestions for the future of the organization, and how it can meet some of their needs. Heading up this committee and initiative is Leann Terry and Joe Miles.
Other possibilities for involvement are writing for the newsletter, serving on a committee, being a member and voting.
These are more opportunities to get involved, and I encourage you to read the list of committees and contact the chair. The organization is also open to new ideas for initiatives.
We are excited about our programs for the 2012 APA Convention in Orlando, FL. held August 2–5. Thanks to our program committee headed by Janice DeLucia-Waack we have an array of interesting and informative programs, among which are the following.
An address by Sally Barlow, Group Psychologist of the Year
A panel discussion on ethics
An experiential process group facilitated by leading experts in group
The presidential address – The Ring of Fire: Potential Toxicity in Groups
Poster sessions on a variety of topics
Also, you may want to plan on joining us for the division’s social on Friday, August 4. Stay tuned to this website for future details. And, if you are an early career psychologist, stay tuned for details about a special event being planned with you in mind. We need you and hope you will respond.
Nina W. Brown
President
Society of Group Psychology and Group Psychotherapy
