Group Analysis South West

Group Analysis South West (GASW) is a UK-based charitable organisation dedicated to the practice, training, and promotion of group analytic psychotherapy. Registered as a charity under number 1092637, GASW operates primarily from Bristol and serves mental health practitioners, organisations, and individuals involved in group work and therapy.

Overview and Mission

GASW’s foundational belief is that humans are inherently social beings and understanding the dynamics of groups can significantly enhance personal and professional effectiveness. The organisation aims to support the development of skills in group analysis, which is the study and application of how groups function and relate to one another. By fostering this knowledge, GASW contributes to improving interpersonal relationships and group wellbeing across diverse settings[1][3].

Services and Activities

The organisation provides a variety of professional development opportunities, including events and Continuing Professional Development (CPD) activities designed for both newcomers and experienced practitioners in group work. GASW also functions as a referral hub, connecting members with services such as group and individual psychotherapy, supervision, reflective practice, and organisational consultancy[1][4].

Training Programmes

GASW offers comprehensive training pathways leading to qualifications as group analysts. These training programmes are UK Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP) accredited and comply fully with relevant codes of ethics and practice.

Key training offerings include:

• Introductory Course to Group Analysis: A year-long (30 weeks) programme that serves as the entry requirement for further qualifications.
• Diploma in the Application of Group-Analytic Principles: A year-long course designed to train graduates to conduct group work within agency settings, supporting both clinical and organisational practitioners.
• Qualifying Course in Group Analysis: A rigorous four-year part-time course culminating in qualification as a Group Analyst. Graduates gain full membership of GASW and eligibility to register with the UKCP[2][4].

Therapeutic Approach

Group analytic psychotherapy, promoted by GASW, focuses on improving how people connect and relate both within groups and in the wider social world. It addresses a range of mental health issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship difficulties, and psychosomatic conditions. This approach also supports understanding of identity factors such as ethnicity, culture, gender, and sexual orientation, fostering personal growth and creativity[3][5].

History and Affiliations

Established in 2000 by members of the Institute of Group Analysis in London, GASW is closely affiliated with national professional bodies. It maintains accreditation and standards in line with the UKCP, ensuring its training and services meet rigorous professional criteria[2].

In summary, Group Analysis South West is a prominent UK charity committed to the advancement of group analytic psychotherapy through training, clinical practice, and the promotion of group dynamics understanding. It supports mental health professionals and organisations in delivering effective group-based therapeutic interventions and development.

[1] https://www.gasw.org.uk [2] https://www.psychotherapy.org.uk/organisation/Group-Analysis-South-West [3] https://www.gasw.org.uk/what-is-group-analytic-psychotherapy/ [4] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/3952762 [5] https://welldoing.org/types/group-analysis