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Writer's pictureTony Ashton

The Tavistock Model of Organisational Consultancy

Updated: May 6





So, what do mean by and make of, the term 'Model'?


To me a model is, in essence, a framework, within which I can think so, naturally, I think that that what it is or can be, for others.


One example that come to mind is Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs - usually depicted as a pyramid, it lists human 'needs' as being five and depicted in layers, rising up from a broad base of the pyramid to a peak.


At the base, are basic physiological and safety needs rising upwards through emotional needs and on to 'self-actualisation needs'.


So, how can I use this? As a group-analytic therapist I often have to assess patients for possible inclusion in a long-term group-analytic group but if they are recently homeless, bereaved, lost a job etc I can see that, at this stage in their life, their crucial 'needs' are certainly not self-actualisation.


A year or so later, they may well be ready and indeed 'needing' that but right now, their needs are more basic and that is where energies must be directed.


So, within this model I and the patient can think and not be overwhelmed by doubt, hope, wishful thinking, 'gut feeling' etc and a more hopeful and effective strategy can be thought through.


Other models too, come to mind and i will write about them shortly.




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