Encounter Groups
“In such a group the individual comes to know himself and each of the others more completely than is possible in the usual social or working relationships. "
Carl Rogers (1969)
Encounter groups are a therapeutic and experiential group process. Encounter groups typically take place over a duration of days where groups can range from as large as 60 individuals to as small as 15.
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During these encounter groups, people share their experiences and connect with others, often invertedly finding and understanding parts of themselves through this process.​
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Encounter groups allow deeper connections, understandings and processes. Often when we encounter others on such a level and in such a person-centred way, we discover a deeper understanding of ourselves, others, and the world.
Students who are enrolled on the MA PCECPP course attend these encounter groups as part of training to become psychotherapists.
Since 2022, I have been joining the students during these encounter groups as a facilitator. My role as a person-centred facilitator focuses on supporting and guiding the group process. This is often done by listening without judgement, supporting the group with navigating their experiences, and offering empathy and compassion. I may also help resolve any conflict or difficult encounters, acknowledge individuals experiences, help to bring people in to the group, and create space for meaningful connections and encounters to take place.
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Over the years, I have gained experience of both co-facilitating and facilitating my own small group and I hope to develop my own encounter groups as part of my private practice.​
