Group therapy is a form of psychotherapy that involves one or more therapists working with several people at the same time.
The group typically consists of five to fifteen clients who meet for an hour or two each week. Conducted online or in person, group therapy can be an ideal choice for addressing concerns and making positive life changes, depending on the nature of the problem.
What to expect in group therapy
Clients can expect to share their experiences and feelings with others who are going through similar struggles. The group members are a valuable source of support, and formal group therapy sessions offer benefits beyond informal self-help and support groups. Sessions are led by one or more mental health professionals who teach group members proven strategies for managing specific problems.
Diversity is another important benefit of group therapy. People have different personalities and backgrounds, and they look at situations in different ways. By seeing how other people tackle problems and make positive changes, clients can discover fresh perspectives and new ways to deal with their concerns.
Issues covered in group therapy
Group therapy can be used to treat a variety of conditions, including but not limited to emotional trauma, anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Sessions usually focus on one specific mental health concern. Some other examples of conditions a group may focus on include generalised anxiety disorder, panic disorder, phobias, substance use disorder, grief, and obesity.
Benefits of group therapy
There are several advantages of group therapy, including the opportunity to develop both socialisation and communication skills. It can also teach clients how to appropriately communicate problems or issues they’re having, and learn to accept different kinds of feedback.
Clients develop a sense of self-awareness when they’re in a safe place with group members they relate to and who can relate to them about similar issues. It can help participants feel less alone and isolated, and provide a sense of belonging and community. Group therapy can also be more cost-effective than individual therapy, making it a more accessible option.
Challenges of group therapy
While group therapy can be beneficial, it can also present some challenges. Some people might feel reluctant to participate in group therapy because of a heightened sense of vulnerability – more people, more exposure. However, if clients can get past that feeling, the benefits of group therapy can be extremely rewarding. Silence and lack of participation, excessive storytelling, questioning, and conflict are some of the challenges that can arise in group therapy These problems can be effectively addressed by the therapist and group members to ensure the group remains a safe and supportive environment for all members.
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