It is the mission of MAGPS to establish a safe, unique, creative learning environment for all attendees by hosting conferences that offer both didactic and experiential learning through participating in whole group and small process group weekend. Conference registrants are expected to attend all plenary sessions, individual and large group discussions, and all three of the Small Process Group experiences.

The primary task of the small process group experiences at MAGPS conferences is to provide space to integrate the didactic material presented by the guest speaker with one's own understanding of self and the small group process. Process groups provided by MAGPS can be intense educational experiences, but they are not psychotherapy groups. So, while conference attendees may derive therapeutic benefit by participating in a group, we avoid using the group to explore our personal history or underlying dynamics, as one may do in group therapy.

The goals of participating in a small process group experience may be achieved through self-exploration and noticing one's feelings, thoughts and reactions in the "here and now." In addition to observing and reflecting on one's own behavior, one may also give and receive feedback from fellow group members about the experience. Participants may experience firsthand the challenge of joining, finding one's voice and becoming known, remaining emotionally present and working in the moment, and forming relationships and reflecting on interaction. Small Group Leaders (SGLs) will emphasize bridging experiential learning with cognitive understanding of the group's development and the conference theme.

Throughout small group sessions over the course of the weekend, challenging dynamics may emerge requiring you to address microaggressions, power and privilege dynamics, effectively manage ruptures, and to the degree possible, restore or repair relational ruptures. While Small Groups can be a powerful learning tool, this experience has harmed colleagues holding marginalized identities in the past. Please review the following recommendations by the AGPA, by clicking on the hyperlinked text (AGPA Guidelines for Creating Affirming Group Experiences) before registering for an MAGPS Conference weekend. If you have hesitation about your ability to incorporate what has been identified by the AGPA DEI Task Force into the small group experience, we ask that you circle back with us in the future after you are better prepared.

MAGPS traditionally invites seasoned local group facilitators to serve as small group leaders (SGLs), along with at least one guest from another affiliate society in an effort to promote stronger connections with our colleagues across the country. These small group process leaders will serve to help guide attendees take a deep dive into understanding the ways in which they engage with others on an interpersonal level. Participants will be randomly placed into groups prior to the start of the conference.

The Mid-Atlantic Group Psychotherapy Society (MAGPS) is a multi-disciplinary organization that offers members the opportunity for professional growth in the field of group psychotherapy in order to expand their scope of clinical practice and network with other group therapists. We believe strongly in the efficacy and power of group therapy as a primary modality of psychological treatment and emotional support. We strongly endorse group psychotherapy as a tool for social justice and systemic change. MAGPS is committed to elevating standards of practice and training in group psychotherapy across clinical disciplines and places of work.

• Disseminating information about the power of group psychotherapy in clinical communities and our broader social contexts
• Providing a rich network of peer support and mentorship with the goal of creating a safe and supportive professional home for group practitioners
• Offering continuing education in group psychotherapy through conferences and other offerings focused on a range of topics relevant to practicing professionals

MAGPS serves as a regional voice specific to the interests of group psychotherapy. Its members provide a wealth of professional, educational, and social support for group psychotherapists in Washington DC, Virginia, West Virginia, and Maryland. We are inclusive of all social identities and clinical disciplines.

MAGPS supports the professional development of students, interns, residents, and clinicians early in their group therapy careers by offering various scholarships to cover registration and banquet costs.

The scholarship deadline is April 1, 2026.

First-time attendees and new professionals may also register at reduced rates.

Click here to apply for a scholarship.

Please reach out to our Scholarship Chair, Karen Eberwein, PsyD with any questions you may have about the process.