Balint Groups
The best way to experience the Balint process is to belong to an ongoing group. Groups of about 8-10 family doctors ( or other health professionals) arrange to meet weekly or fortnightly for about 90 minutes. Each group needs a leader, or preferably two leaders. Originally, leaders were always psychoanalysts but this is no longer always the case. Leading a group requires some the possession of some psychological knowledge, some group skills and some knowledge of general practice. Aspiring leaders gain immensely from working as a co-leader with an experienced Balint group leader. Experience as an ordinary member of a Balint group provides the best possible foundation.
The Balint Society can help aspiring group members and leaders in the following ways:
- Locating an existing group in your area, if one exists.
- Helping you and a group of colleagues to set up a group.
- Providing a trained leader, where possible.
- Advising on recruitment of suitable leaders
- Providing training experience for aspiring leaders
- Offering certification to leaders who can demonstrate their ability and experience
If you can’t find or form an ongoing group you might like to have An intensive Balint weekend. One of these is held in the delightful surroundings of an Oxford College every Autumn. Two other Balint Weekends are held each year in Northumberland and Lancashire (see Diary of events). Weekends provide an opportunity to have a taste of Balint by working in an authentic, professionally-led Balint Group and discuss the experience with colleagues.
Some people feel they benefit so much that they come every year. Details from the Secretary.