Evolution of a child's group-therapy through the Therapeutic Cycle Model.

Abstract

This study describes the process of psychodynamic-oriented group therapy for children with psychopathological disorders. In particular, analysis focuses on a target child, in order to highlight critical moments in the therapeutic itinerary and the influence which the group context had on the patient. 
Fifteen therapy sessions were analysed according to the Therapeutic Cycle Model (TCM) developed by Prof. Erhard Mergenthaler. This model analyses verbal production, distinguishing words with emotional connotations from those with cognitive ones. The authors demonstrate the fundamental role played by the therapists and the group in modulating and integrating the patient's emotional and cognitive aspects.