Group Psychotherapy Clinic

Dr. Molyn Leszcz

The Group Psychotherapy Clinic offers consultation and treatment in group psychotherapy formats. The primary emphasis in the clinic is in the area of interpersonally oriented groups that emphasize opportunities for interpersonal learning and improving the capacities for emotional relatedness through understanding the role of interpersonal difficulties, both in terms of early life events and contemporary interactional patterns. Patients may continue in individual therapy conjointly with the group psychotherapy, with permission for open communication between the group and individual therapists. Psychotherapy groups are generally led by a co-therapy team consisting of psychiatry residents, psychiatrists, or allied mental health professionals. The typical size is 7-9 participants. Groups may be observed through a one-way mirror for educational purposes.

The group formats are either open-ended with members joining and completing the group individually; or, close-ended with a fixed starting and ending point, typically starting in the Fall each year and concluding in May/June. Most groups are composed heterogeneously, although some groups target particular clinical concerns and are homogeneous. In all group formats it is expected that participants will complete questionnaires that evaluate the course of the therapy.

Physician referral is required; a referral letter initiating the consultation can be faxed to Dr. Leszcz at 416-586-8654.

Inclusion criteria:

• Identification of and willingness to address interpersonal and relational difficulties associated with depression, dysthymia, anxiety disorders or personality difficulties.

Exclusion criteria:

• Acute crisis
• Acute suicidality
• Active substance abuse
• Inability to attend and participate consistently due to logistics