Overview

This is the introductory curriculum for encounter groups in the Therapeutic Community. It is presented in the East Lodge, and typically follows either the Orientation or Thresholds curriculum. The objective of this curriculum is to introduce participants to the basic theory of encounter groups in a non-threatening manner prior to their participation in group circles. Careful introduction to the group process aids in reducing fear and resistance and maximizes participation and socialization. Importantly, this curriculum defines a common language for groups amongst participants. It describes how to set up a group circle, examining aspects such as physical and emotional climate, and describes group composition guidelines. The reasons for utilization of group circles are examined, and several different types of group circles are introduced. Each participant receives a workbook, and staff receive an accompanying Demonstrator Guide, which includes lesson plans, group exercises, and seminars for presentation.

The tasks in the Demonstrator Guide for this curriculum are laid out to help plan your day in the TC, rather than having your day plan you. The exercises are designed to foster interaction, rotate leadership, and lead people to each other. This workbook is geared towards developing community-building skills in both the participants and the practitioners, and is focused on developing a therapeutic community as opposed to a drug program. Specifically, this workbook is designed to expose participants and practitioners to the building blocks needed to develop healthy encounter groups. Too often, new residents are simply “put” into groups without explanation. This typically affects retention rates negatively and promotes drop-out within the first 90 days. By introducing newcomers to groups by “dumping” them in creates a climate that fosters participants “jailing it” rather than a climate of ownership and “buy-in”. Some percentage of participants have had prior negative “group” experiences, and this re-education reduces the prejudices they may bring into the TC.

Therapeutic Communities need to foster a healthy and healing community dynamic. We need to set the stage for pro-active and growth-motivated group circle processes where individuals can develop their individuality while learning from each other.