3 min read

Group Therapy

Have you considered joining group therapy? Therapy groups are a fantastic way to contextualize personal development, and complement individual therapy as well. This blog is designed to help you understand the benefits and process of group therapy so that you can determine if it’s correct for you.

The process of group therapy is quite different from individual psychotherapy in that the therapeutic mechanism is the dynamics and in-situ processing of interpersonal challenges. The pressing issue is no longer as important as the way the issue affects the individual, the couple, and the system (community or family). In this way, processing in a group where certain themes have been identified helps the client in real-time to work through their approach and shift perspective rapidly on how they show up in relationships.

In individual therapy, the therapist-client relationship dictates the speed, depth, and success of processing. Individual therapy also always remains confidential and biased—the work, context, and understanding of a client’s challenges are filtered through the lens of the client, and therefore, any wisdom or success can only be judged and validated by the client themselves. This is well suited for tuning in and finding one’s individual truths about life.

In this way, group and individual therapy offer something different. It’s up to the client to decide if and when group therapy may be right for them. Another aspect of group therapy can't be understated, is the value of the unique energy and expression that is created by a group. Each member contributes to and benefits from a shared interaction. The group energy and direction shifts if one person leaves or is added. This ever-changing dynamic indicates that every session is unique and important in the process of change.

Here are some of the benefits of group therapy in a bit more detail:

Diverse Perspectives:

In a group setting, participants come from varied backgrounds and have different life experiences. This diversity enriches the therapeutic process by offering multiple perspectives on common issues and challenges. Hearing different viewpoints can broaden one's understanding and help generate new insights and coping strategies.

Social Skills Development:

Group therapy offers a unique opportunity to practice and refine social skills in a safe and supportive setting. Interacting with others, expressing oneself, and giving and receiving feedback are valuable skills that can be honed through participation in group discussions and activities.

Normalization and Validation:

Sharing experiences with others who are going through similar struggles can help individuals feel less alone and normalize their feelings and experiences. The validation and empathy received from group members can boost self-esteem and reduce feelings of shame or inadequacy.

Accountability and Motivation:

Group members often hold each other accountable for their goals and progress. Mutual support and encouragement within the group can help individuals stay motivated and committed to their therapeutic journey, leading to better outcomes.

Learning from Others:

Group therapy provides a platform for learning from others' experiences and coping strategies. Hearing how others have overcome similar challenges can inspire hope and provide practical tips and techniques for managing one's own difficulties.

Overall, group therapy offers a powerful combination of support, learning, and personal growth opportunities that can lead to significant improvements in mental health and well-being.