Joining, Bridging, and Authentic Delight: A Group Therapy Workshop

This workshop explores three concepts from Modern Psychoanalysis and Attachment Theory that foster belonging and mattering in groups. Attendees will learn how joining addresses early anxieties and resistance, how bridging harnesses collective power beyond "individual therapy with an audience," and how authentic delight promotes secure attachment. Through didactic teaching and a demonstration group, participants will learn interventions cultivating inclusivity, cohesion, and positive self-regard across group developmental phases.

3.75 CE credits for attendance.

Objectives:

1. Describe the theory and rationale of joining strategies
2. Explain the difference between syntonic joining and dystonic joining in group therapy
3. Utilize bridging interventions to promote ego support, feedback, subgroups and group cohesion
4. Explain how expressing delight promotes secure attachment

Presenter:

Evan Perlo, LMFT, CGP maintains a private practice in West Los Angeles where he works with individuals, families, and long term psychodynamic process groups. He trained at the Southern California Counseling Center and the New Center for Psychoanalysis. He continues to train at the Center for Group Studies in Manhattan and the American Group Psychotherapy Association. Evan is serving on the GPALA Board of Directors for his third term. He leads workshops and trainings for group therapists and has presented locally and nationally. He is passionate about the power of groups to foster a sense of belonging and vitality through speaking directly and vulnerably with others.

Target Audience: Psychologists, MFT’s, MSW’s, other non-mental health professionals

Instructional Level: Beginner, Intermediate

The Group Psychotherapy Association of Los Angeles (GPALA) is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. GPALA maintains responsibility for this program and its content.