Encounter Groups for Addictions, Volume I: Evolution of the Encounter Group
by Rod Mullen
Learn about the origin of encounter groups and how they have evolved since the 1950s in this captivating series.
In the first of this 3-video series, Rod Mullen explores the evolution of encounter groups beginning with the first groups created by Synanon founder Chuck Dederich in the 1950s. Mullen discusses the essential elements of these first groups including honesty, authenticity and mutual self-help—elements that are still core to encounter groups today. He highlights that although the brutal confrontational style of the first groups have softened, the commitment to hold oneself and other accountable remains central. He also discusses the challenges that face encounter groups and offers guidance on how to work within managed care systems while holding on to the traditions that make encounter groups such an effective means for change.

What therapists are saying…

"Thank you for offering Rod Mullen's DVD series on Encounter Groups. These media are a one-of-a-kind opportunity for viewers to observe the 'life' of a group and the transforming power of an effectively-facilitated encounter group. The videos present a spectrum of groups -from those that do not work to those that do- and are outstanding reference points for master clinicians and novices alike. I have used the videos to great effect in Master's Level Counseling courses, as well as in certified substance abuse counselor training, and highly recommend them."

-- Jonathan Porteus, PhD - Director of Clinical Services, The Effort, Inc. Sacramento, CA
"I use both the Encounter Groups for Addictions and The Therapeutic Community DVDs as part of our training package. What I like best about both series is the time spent on understanding the underpinnings of our clinical work. That focus allows skilled helpers coming into the field to both understand the origin and the evolution of our work with residents in treatment. I highly recommend these training series for all levels of practitioners."

-- Bob Neri - Chief Clinical Officer, Westcare
"Congratulations to Rod Mullen and George DeLeon for these two excellent DVD series, Encounter Groups for Addictions and The Therapeutic Community. These are essential training resources that provide valuable lessons to help guide treatment professionals in the substance abuse field."

-- Shaamiel Davids, PhD - Director, Western Cape Therapeutic Community Centre
In Depth
Specs
Bios
From watching this video, you'll be able to:

• Describe the most integral aspects of encounter groups that have remained relevant from the 1950s to the present.
• Discuss the early history of encounter groups and how they came about.
• Explain how encounter groups have changed over time, and how changes in the field during the last 20 years have posed significant challenges to running effective encounter groups.

Length of video: 1:05:00

English subtitles available

Group ISBN-10 #: 1-60124-163-1

Group ISBN-13 #: 978-1-60124-163-4

Rod Mullen, President and CEO of Amity Foundation, has been working in therapeutic communities since 1967. Rod has written numerous articles and book chapters, produced a number of video projects about therapeutic communities, and presented at numerous state, national and international meetings and conferences.
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