WHO WE ARE
The Florida Group Psychotherapy Society (FGPS) serves as an affiliate voice specific to the interests of group psychotherapy. FGPS maintains the traditions of psychodynamic psychotherapy and recognizes other models of group psychotherapy. In addition, FGPS provides didactic and experiential training for psychotherapists interested in how group dynamics affect individuals, families, communities, and the world of business.
Its members provide a wealth of professional, educational, and social support for group psychotherapists in Florida and come from many different disciplines, including Psychology, Marriage and Family Therapy, Mental Health Counseling, Social Work, Nursing, and Psychiatry. Trainings and social events are designed to mentor new professionals and students, expand and promote group therapy and enrich and rejuvenate established professionals.
FGPS is committed to professional and cultural diversity. All mental health professions are welcome and well represented in our Society. Our membership of students, interns, residents, new professionals, established practitioners, and retirees helps create a community of inclusion, vitality, and creativity.
MISSION
The Florida Group Psychotherapy Society (FGPS) is a multidisciplinary organization that offers its members the opportunity for professional growth, to broaden their scope of clinical practice, and to connect with like-minded group therapists. We believe in the efficacy and viability of group therapy as a primary modality of psychological treatment and emotional support.
The society is committed to:
- The elevation of standards of practice and training in group psychotherapy.
- The dissemination of information about group psychotherapy services to the public and other professionals.
- The provision of a network of peer support that serves the professional needs of group practitioners.
- The sponsorship of activities and opportunities to enhance knowledge and skills in group psychotherapy to members via conferences, monthly meetings and available resources listed on this site.
- The engagement in and provision of diversity in membership and programs and enhancement of awareness of issues of diversity and their psychological and societal impact.
STATEMENT OF EQUITY AND INCLUSION
Florida Group Psychotherapy Society embraces the principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion, in its philosophy and practice. This includes recognizing that issues including racism, sexism, ableism, heterosexism and all systems of oppression exist and are perpetuated by the power dynamics in our society and the structures that support them. We also recognize that each of us approaches diversity, equity, and inclusion from our own identities, experiences, and comfort levels. While no one perspective is “right” or “wrong,” we are committed to upholding these principles in all activities and events, including materials, workshops and conferences we provide.
We strive to create a safe and inclusive atmosphere. In keeping with this commitment, all individuals at our events are expected to share their input respectfully. We will not tolerate behaviors or comments that compromise the safety and dignity of all (including all members, presenters, and/or participants). Individuals who violate this policy will be given a warning and/or removed from this community based on the nature of the violation. Every effort will be made to hear and respect all voices while actively working to promote awareness of systemic oppression within ourselves, our practices, and society at large. If any participant feels they have been oppressed in any form and wishes to have support, the FGPS event planning staff will provide an ombudsman to contact during the annual workshop. The ombudsman contact name will be provided at the start of the annual conference.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
AMERICAN GROUP PSYCHOTHERAPY ASSOCIATION
FGPS is one of 31 affiliate societies of the The American Group Psychotherapy Association (AGPA), the oldest and largest professional organization dedicated to the provision of education and professional development, research and outreach services both nationally and internationally. As a multidisciplinary organization, it maintains the highest of professional standards and represents all levels of psychotherapy disciplines.
