Psychodrama Institute of Melbourne

DIRECTOR: Sue Daniel

The Psychodrama Institute of Melbourne provides training, supervision and personal and professional development courses in group leadership, psychotherapy, counselling, staff development and organisational consultancy.  At its core is the sociometric principles of Dr. J. L. Moreno.  The founder and director of the Institute is Sue Daniel.  Faculty Members include Lethe Gaskin, Nikki Alderman and Margaret Shanahan.  Visiting Teachers and group leaders in 2008 include Peter Felix Kellermann from Israel, Neil Hucker, Kath Kelly and Marie Watt.

Training Program

The aim of the training is to develop theoretical knowledge and practical ability in the methods of psychodrama, sociometry, sociodrama, role training and group work through informal lectures, discussion, reading, writing and supervised practice, in open and closed groups. The training will suit professional people in such fields as counselling, psychiatry, psychotherapy, education, welfare, the arts, health, organisational and staff development and pastoral care.  Trainees are expected to be fully involved in their training and to participate in discussions, peer supervision and community activities. 

Click here for the 2008 Training Programme

Methodology

The experiential method interwoven with theoretical knowledge is at the core of the program.  This method involves the student actively experiencing the emotional and sensory impact associated with participation and involvement in a situation, while experiencing full intellectual functioning.  Evaluation of and group interaction are all part of the learning process. While psychodrama techniques and theory are integral to the training process other creative methods may be employed in the training process.

Training Activities

Training generally begins with Level 1 (1 year), followed by Level 2 (2 years) and then Level 3 (2 years). The training is over 4 terms per year, and includes ongoing weekly sessions, weekend workshops and seminars, peer groups, writing and relevant supervision. Trainees are expected to apply their new learning between training periods. This contributes richly to the growth of skill and experience, enables each trainee to evaluate him or herself at each level and points to strengths and growing edges as learning proceeds.

Supervision

As the trainee progresses through their training, one to one supervision is a requirement. Trainees who are applying their learning in their workplace will need to organise individual supervision sessions.   Advanced trainees are encouraged to attend peer supervision groups.   Individual consultations and small group sessions are by appointment.

Case Study Group - 1st Friday Morning of each month

Designed for practitioners, trainees and group leaders in a variety of fields and disciplines, these groups are for professional people wanting to develop their expertise in individual counselling, psychotherapy and group work, and are ongoing throughout the year.

Practitioners' Psychodrama Group - 2nd last Friday Morning of every month

This group, held on the 2nd last Friday of each month is specifically for psychodrama practitioners.

Seminar and Weekend Workshops

The attendance of at least two workshops is a requirement for all trainees. These and other workshops are also for professional people interested in the diverse applications of the psychodrama method.

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