Reading Groups
Reading Together. Thinking Together.
The reading groups are the heart of GRASP.
Each month, small groups of clinicians come together to explore psychoanalytic theory through the careful reading of primary texts, thoughtful discussion, and shared reflection.
Over time, these groups become more than places to study - they become trusted communities where ideas, questions and clinical thinking can develop over many years.
Whether you join in Johannesburg or online, you'll become part of a group committed to curiosity, respectful dialogue and the ongoing study of psychoanalysis.
At a Glance
Small Groups
Monthly Meetings
10 Months a Year
In-Person & Online
11-15 Members
Waiting List
A Structure Designed for Depth
GRASP has been intentionally designed to encourage continuity, trust and meaningful discussion. Rather than open classes or drop-in sessions, members join a dedicated reading group and remain with that group over time.
This consistent structure allows conversations to deepen, relationships to develop and psychoanalytic ideas to be explored with increasing richness year after year.
Small, Closed Groups
Each reading group consists of approximately 11–15 members.
Groups remain closed to new participants once they are established, creating an environment where members can think openly, ask questions and engage honestly with one another over time.
Monthly Meetings
Groups meet once a month for ten months of the year, pausing over December and January.
The regular rhythm encourages sustained engagement while remaining manageable alongside busy clinical practice.
Primary Psychoanalytic Texts
Each group explores carefully selected primary psychoanalytic texts representing a wide range of traditions, including Freud, Klein, Bion, Winnicott, Lacan, relational psychoanalysis and contemporary thinkers.
Reading lists are curated by the facilitators and evolve as the group develops.
Facilitated Discussion
Every session is facilitated by experienced clinicians who guide discussion, provide context where needed and encourage thoughtful engagement with the material.
The emphasis is not on lectures or formal teaching, but on collaborative thinking and shared exploration.
Learning Without Pressure
There are no presentations to prepare.
No examinations.
No assessment.
No expectation that members have all the answers.
Members are simply invited to read, think, contribute, and remain curious.
Who the Reading Groups Are Designed For
GRASP is primarily intended for clinicians who wish to engage seriously with psychoanalytic thinking within a supportive community of peers.
While every enquiry is considered individually, the groups are generally best suited to the following professionals.
Registered Psychologists
Psychiatrists
Social Workers & Counsellors
Clinicians-in-Training
Aligned Professionals
Note:
Membership is considered carefully to ensure that each group remains cohesive, respectful and beneficial for everyone involved. This is not about exclusivity or hierarchy - it is about preserving the culture that allows each group to flourish over many years.
Explore Our Current Groups
Each reading group has its own focus, meeting format and facilitator while sharing the same commitment to thoughtful psychoanalytic enquiry.
Because groups remain intentionally small, availability changes as places become available.
If a group is currently full, you're welcome to register your interest and we'll contact you when a suitable place opens.
Guided by Experienced Clinicians
Each reading group is facilitated by experienced clinicians and psychoanalytic educators who help create an atmosphere of thoughtful enquiry, respectful discussion and intellectual generosity.
Rather than acting as lecturers, facilitators guide conversation, provide historical and theoretical context, and help members engage more deeply with the material.
Meet the Facilitators
Bruce
Kelly
Deborah
Clint
Megan
Naardus
Leon
Tobias
Patricia
Sheldon
Continue the Conversation
Whether you're taking your first steps into psychoanalytic thinking or have spent years in clinical practice...
GRASP offers a place to continue learning alongside colleagues who value thoughtful discussion, intellectual curiosity and the slow development of clinical understanding.
If you'd like to explore joining a reading group, attending a workshop or simply learning more about the community, we'd be delighted to hear from you.
Join the Waitlist Today and Be the First to Know When A Spot Opens Up
Michael Benn is a Clinical Psychologist and IPA-registered Psychoanalyst in private practice in Johannesburg. He is the Chair and Convener of GRASP and the founder of the Psychoanalytic Thinking digital community.
Address
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