CONCEPTUALIZATION OF THE EXPERIENCE OF AN OPEN PSYCHODYNAMIC GROUP IN A NEUROPSYCHIATRIC CLINIC DURING THE RUSSIAN-UKRAINIAN WAR

Abstract

Abstract. In this article, we share insights based on a two-year experience of conducting an open small psychodynamic group in a psychoneurological inpatient setting during the full-scale Rus- sian–Ukrainian war. The introduction outlines the relevance, research problem, and objectives. The main section provides a definition of the small psychodynamic group, describes the parameters of its functioning, and presents a unified protocol for observing and theoretically conceptualizing the group process as a form of clinical experience conceptualization. The protocol includes eight structured items encompassing both phenomenological and analytical levels of understanding. All items are illustrated with clinical examples. Special attention is given to the integration of group and individual psycho- analytic theories, in particular the contributions of W. Bion, S. Foulkes, T. Ogden, H. Argelander, and O. Kernberg. The protocol serves both containing and educational-reflective functions, supports retrospective reflection on the dynamics of each group, and can be applied as a psychodynamic tool in clinical practice within psychiatric and psychoneurological inpatient units, especially under con- ditions of war and social turbulence. The groups are held at a clinical training site of the Ukrainian Catholic University, located in the first inpatient unit of the Lviv Psychoneurological Dispensary, and are facilitated by graduates of the Master’s Program in Clinical Psychology with a specialization in Psychodynamic Therapy at UCU.