About IGA
The IGA was founded in 1971 by Dr S H Foulkes and a group of colleagues to provide clinical training in Group Analytic Psychotherapy.
What Is Group Analysis?
Group Analysis is a form of psychotherapy by the group, of the group, including the group therapist/conductor. It aims to achieve a healthier integration within the individual and in their network of relationships.
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Focusing on the relationship between the individual and the group places emphasis on the essentially social nature of human experience. It is an interactive approach and as well as provision of psychotherapy it has many applications in the fields of human relations, teaching, training, work groups and organisational consultancy.
“The theory and method of group analysis is concerned with a dynamic understanding of the inner working of the human mind as a social, multi-personal phenomenon” (Foulkes 1975) and as such can be applied to groups, individuals, couples, families and applied groups.
IGA Board of Trustees
Mission and Vision
To develop the creative potential in individuals, groups and society through group analysis.
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The IGA actively pursues a policy promoting equal opportunities and accessibility. We oppose discrimination and encourage an understanding of difference and cultural diversity.
To have robust procedures in place ensuring that qualified Group Analysts involved in our training are suitable for the teaching and supervision of work undertaken by trainees on our courses.
THE IGA’S MISSION IS...
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To promote the theory and practice of group analysis in the UK and internationally.
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To relieve mental distress of individuals through the clinical application of group analysis.
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To increase the well-being and functioning of individuals, groups and organisations through education in the principles and method of group analysis.
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To maintain the IGA as one of the leading national and international psychotherapy training organisations.
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To promote continuing professional development for members of the IGA.
OUR VALUES ARE...
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To strive for the highest standards in all IGA courses, trainings and in clinical practice.
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To value difference and creativity of individuals and groups and to oppose unjust discrimination.
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To develop and maintain structures and policies for sound governance of the IGA and for upholding ethical behaviour by members.
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To ensure democratic principles operate at all levels within the organisation.
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To ensure transparency of decision-making and to regularly communicate with members to maintain accountability of officers and others with delegated authority.
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To adapt and change where necessary to respond to the changing social, political, legal and regulatory environment within which the IGA operates.
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To regularly review and appraise the performance of the IGA and to include all our stakeholders in this process.
Honorary Members
Dr Harold Behr
Mrs Sue Stevenson
Dr Earl Hopper
Dr Estela Welldon
Prof Stephen Frosh
Mr Kevin Power
Ms Teresa von Sommaruga Howard
National Training Staff
David Carter
Panel of Readers Chair
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David Carter is a Group Analyst and Consultant Clinical Psychologist. He worked for over thirty years in the NHS, initially as a clinician and then as an operational manager and strategic planning lead for psychological services. He left the NHS some years ago and now runs a small private practice in East Sussex where he provides individual and group analytic psychotherapy. He offers supervision and reflective practice to both teams and individuals.
He has a special interest in autism and is chair of the IGA Panel of Readers.
Our Growth & Locations
Since 1971, Group Analysis has developed a strong presence in many regions of the UK, making the IGA a truly national organisation.
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As you can see from the map, the IGA has grown exponentially. With 10 different training locations and further international courses, we aim to continue the work of S H Foulkes and his colleagues through our commitment to teaching and promoting the work of Group Analysis in the UK.
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Our members come from different social and ethnic backgrounds, reflecting the social environment in which we live. We are an equal opportunities organisation and welcome people of all backgrounds.
The IGA also has numerous European and International affiliations.
We welcome inquiries and discussion about the work of the Institute and the training opportunities we offer.
