Theoretical Leadership Orientation

Jennifer DeFrancis Describe your theoretical orientation and leadership style. Discuss how these will help facilitate the specific goals of this group, and why they are clinically and culturally appropriate for the clients who will participate in the group.
Theoretical orientation and leadership style Taking into consideration qualities of my character and my own experiences on a personal level as well as on an interpersonal communication level, I have concluded that the most representative theoretical psychotherapeutic approach for me, is that of Carl Rogers’. Sincerity, authenticity, “agreement”, acceptance, empathy and understanding of the patient, represent some of the key features that I believe a therapist must have and
It is very important for them to feel that they can move about and circulate comfortably, without difficulties and obstacles such as stairs, narrow elevators, long distances and other similar impediments. The physical setting of the group must give them a sense of being welcomed, without emphasizing their differentiation. For that reason, it is essential that the place of meetings be easily accessible to people with motion disabilities (for example, means of mass transportation that can serve them). The space must be on the ground floor and if it is on a higher level the elevator must be large enough and ramps should be available. Also, the dimensions of the room must allow a comfortable moving in it. Moreover, that place has to provide the members with privacy, freedom from distraction and to allow them to sit in a circle, so that they can see, observe and interact directly with one
This process aims at examining the abilities and qualities of the patient, so that he can meet the requirements for interpersonal communication with the therapist. The conditions of the interview have to be as similar as possible to those that will be shaped in the group. This is necessary, because the more similar they are, the more accurate and distinct the prediction of interpersonal behavior will be. Thus, the therapist’s responsibility is to create an atmosphere and norms resembling to those of the meetings (such as freedom of speech, respect of others, honesty, active participation, interaction, introspection, self-disclosure, giving-taking feedback, etc). Moreover, it is important that the interview will refer to “here and now”, so that the observation may lead to the most useful information. Finally, the prospective member will be submitted to questions related to his/her past interpersonal relationships in the family, work, school, clubs etc.
To complete the intake interview, I think two or three meetings at least are required. The time before the beginning of the group therapy is crucial for the inference extraction about the future members, as well as for their psychological