EXPERIENCES OF GROUP DYNAMICS IN A UNIVERSITY PSYCHOLOGICAL CLINIC

Abstract

The present experience report aims to present and discuss practical experiences coming from an extension project that offers the device of open groups to any interested person, without the need for prior scheduling, that happens in the psychological university clinic of the State University of Londrina. Among all the activities related to this project, emphasis will be given to the work done with the adult population. Prior to this, it is hoped to discuss the implementation of this project, its intervention strategies - including the realization of diverse group dynamics (presentation, reflective, motivational, recreational, relaxation, etc.), as well as its effects on the public served. It is pointed out, therefore, that this project began as a service aimed only at people who were on the waiting list for individual psychotherapy, and later expanded its scope due to the increasing demand, arriving at the current format of openness to the whole community, to reduce the rate of evasion on the waiting list and, on the other hand, to promote mental health for the community as a whole. In addition, discussions are held about the role and potential of waiting-room groups, reflecting on the importance of creating new strategies for prevention and health promotion. It should be noted that the dynamics groups contributed to increase the population's access to the Psychological Clinic of UEL and to diversify the proposals not only for treatment but also for health prevention, fostering the social role of psychological university clinics.