BALINT Groups

Psychosis management

At AUDHD Mind, we are proud to facilitate BALINT groups, reflective practice sessions that offer professionals a unique space to explore the emotional and relational dimensions of their work. These groups are led by two UK-accredited BALINT group leaders: Dr. Zulijana Anastasova-Mikic and Dr. Cailín Boland, both consultant psychiatrists with extensive experience in reflective practice and group facilitation.

BALINT groups were first developed in the 1950s by Dr. Michael Balint, a Hungarian psychoanalyst, and his wife, Enid Balint, to support general practitioners in understanding the psychological aspects of their relationships with patients. Over time, these groups evolved beyond general practice, becoming integral to psychiatry and extending to other healthcare professions and, more recently, to non-medical disciplines such as education, human resources, and management.

Reflective Practice Through BALINT Groups

At Mind Heaven Trauma-Informed Neurodivergence Centre, we proudly offer Balint groups as a key service for medical professionals, including doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals, as well as for other disciplines such as teachers, Gardaí (police), and individuals in caregiving or high-stress professions.
Balint groups provide a unique, structured opportunity for professionals to reflect on the emotional and relational aspects of their work. This reflective practice helps participants deepen their understanding of the professional-client relationship, enhance empathy, and address the emotional challenges inherent in their roles.

Who Can Join a Balint Group?

Medical Professionals

Doctors, nurses, and allied health staff seeking to better understand the emotional challenges of patient care.

Educators

Teachers and school administrators reflecting on their interactions with students, parents, and colleagues.

Human Resources Professionals and Managers

Exploring workplace relationships and fostering supportive, empathetic work environments.

Gardaí (police)
Therapists and counselors
Any professional working in a relational or caregiving capacity

Benefits of Balint Groups

Participating in a Balint group offers numerous benefits, including:
Enhanced Emotional Resilience
Balint groups provide a supportive space for professionals to process difficult experiences and reduce burnout.
Improved Communication Skills
Participants learn to navigate complex relational dynamics with greater empathy and understanding.
Strengthened Professional Relationships:
By exploring the relational aspects of their work, participants can build stronger, more effective relationships with patients, clients, or colleagues.
Increased Self-Awareness:
Reflecting on professional experiences fosters a deeper understanding of one’s own emotions, biases, and interpersonal style.
Supportive Peer Community
Balint groups create a sense of camaraderie and mutual support among participants from diverse backgrounds.
PARENT SUPPORT GROUPS

Led by two experienced facilitators, our BALINT groups ensure a rich and dynamic experience. Through case discussions and shared reflections, participants not only deepen their understanding of professional relationships but also strengthen their ability to navigate the complexities of their roles with confidence and compassion.

BALINT groups are a testament to the importance of reflective practice in professional development. They create an opportunity to pause, connect, and grow, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose among participants from diverse fields. At AUDHD Mind, we are dedicated to continuing this tradition of reflective practice, supporting professionals in enhancing both their work and their well-being.