Balint psychodrama is one of the methods used to train health professionals.  It was conceived and developed by Anne Caïn, a French psychoanalyst and psychodramatist, in the spirit of Michael Balint and the group work he developed with general practitioners.  What sets it apart is the use of psychodramatic play, in which the carer is asked not only to tell the story, but also to recreate and act out moments of the encounter with the patient.

Balint psychodrama uses some techniques of psychodramatic work but is different from a role play in that it allows for fantasy and free association on the basis of the actual interaction that had taken place in the consultation. Similarly to Balint work , it requires a case to be presented to the group as the material for the group to “play” with.

Reconstructing and reconnecting with a recalled professional scene allows the emotional, conscious and unconscious aspects that are problematic for the carer to be explored in a new way, questioning their role and even their professional identity.

In Balint psychodrama groups, we re-enact moments from the caring relationship under the active gaze and attention and involvement of all participants.