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The Silent Language: About the Importance of Silence Both in Individual Therapy and in Groups To be silent in the presence of the analyst or the group is anything but being alone, because silence has a place and an opposite; someone who is silent and listens. The mutual silence opens up a private space for the patient in which they can concentrate on themselves without external distraction. Silence also implies that answers to the patient's pressing issues cannot come from the analyst or members of the group. Instead, we stand by the patient's side and listen so that over time they can find out for themselves what they have not up until now known or understood. Silence is an important part of our work and often leads to more than words could ever do. It serves the patient as a helpful deepening and listening to their innermost being. With the support of theoretical considerations and case studies from my treatments, I deal with the meaning of silence and its emotional effects, both in individual therapy and in groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]