"Let’s Pivot": Co-leading Organizational Group Therapy in a Nonprofit Setting

Abstract:The increase in racialized violence against Black, Asian, and other People of Color was concurrent with the deadly COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. The national Black Lives Matter protests that coalesced after the murder of George Floyd resulted in demands for racial literacy consultation and group support for companies across the United States. Traditionally, diversity, equity, and inclusion organizational consultants have focused on didactic approaches and consciousness raising. What is the best response when a significant rupture has occurred across racial lines that affects the experience of community within a workplace? This article examines group principles that informed the process of co-leading a multisession combined didactic and therapeutic racial literacy group. In collaboration with corporate leaders, an intentional, group therapeutic approach was taken, which focused on interpersonal dynamics and behavior change to address systemic racism. It was developed to facilitate healing for all staff in a nonprofit organization. Centering group principles of leader transparency, establishing group agreements, intentionality, and racial sensitivity, the authors collaborated and made several key decisions that created a learning and healing environment for group members. The authors examine their assumptions, modifications, missteps, and successes in a group process that occurred over a six-month period. This article also provides insights and recommendations for group leaders who wish to provide group therapy and consultation in traditionally nontherapeutic spaces.