Self-Help Groups and Professional Helpers

Abstract

In recent years the self-help group movement has grown by leaps and bounds. The relationships between these groups and professional helpers has been a tenuous one. Although now there is a greater receptivity toward professionals by these groups, there is still considerable skepticism about their respective roles. This article suggests innovative solutions for mutual benefits for these groups and the professionals. Through a derivative paradigm the role of the professional helper within self-help groups is presented.