Abstract

In the context of global events during the pandemic, experts in the field of mental health have recognized the necessity of offering alternative modes of providing support and treatment, and many of them have engaged in conducting online services/therapy for the first time. Herein we present our experience in conducting online group work over almost 4 months, which was performed as part of group analysis training and which has brought certain event and changes to light that took place during group therapy in a virtual environment. The group, which had previously met face-to-face for two years, was able to adjust to the new setting and achieve progress despite certain difficulties and an episode in which one group member acted out. This article presents the advantages of online therapy regarding the availability of help and support during a period of increased patient needs and in achieving continuity of treatment as well as progress in therapy until face-to-face meetings become possible once more, but we also describe the challenges tied to the virtual setting, which requires adjustments from all therapy participants with regard to maintaining boundaries within the group, overcoming separation anxiety, technical and communication difficulties, and other unique factors that influence group therapy.