Integrating art in psychodynamic-narrative group work to promote the resilience of caring professionals

This paper presents a theoretical foundation for integrating the psychodynamic and social construction perspectives to group work for the purpose of enhancing resilience. A model for narrative-dynamic group work integrating the arts was implemented with a team of professionals who worked with children and families at risk. Single case study research is used as an example that describes and evaluates implementation of the model. Results show that such a group can help individual members and the group as a whole learn and recognize their vulnerability to compassion fatigue and emotional burden, as well as their strengths and abilities, in a process that leads to enhanced resilience. The paper raises and discusses dilemmas related to facilitation of the group and the impact of organizational demands. Implementation of the model provided the group members with an awareness of the meaning and significance of their emotional experiences and provided a useful guide for their work with children and families at risk.