Group Therapy

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What is group therapy?

Group therapy includes a therapist and typically 5-15 people who get together regularly to improve their mental health in a supportive and structured environment. With this type of therapy, the group:

Provides a therapeutic support system

As you share your thoughts, feelings, and experiences, members of the group can give you support and offer a new perspective that helps you see issues in a more realistic light.

Teaches you about yourself

Listening to others talk about their experience often reveals an issue that you need to overcome or deal with.

Encourages forward movement

Group therapy motivates you to take steps and move forward as you learn how others confronted and successfully dealt with similar challenges.

Gives you a sense of belonging

Participating in a group allows you to engage with others and ease your isolation. You’ll see that you’re not alone because others share the same struggles.

What should I consider before joining a group?

Therapy often begins with individual counseling, especially if you’re in the middle of a crisis. As you start to heal, your therapist may recommend a group that supports your ongoing growth. However, many patients find all the support they need in group therapy.

Your therapist explains the details about the group you’re considering, but you should also understand issues such as:

Open and closed groups

Open groups accept new members at any time, while closed groups begin with all their members and don’t allow others to join in down the road. You may feel more comfortable in either an open or closed group, depending on your personality and comfort level.

Number of people in the group

A small group offers more time to focus on each person and their unique issues, while a larger group gives you a broader perspective and more diversity.

Similarity of group members

The people in your group should function at a similar level and face similar difficulties as you.

What should I expect during group therapy?

Your therapist creates a safe space. They also keep the group focused, guiding the conversation toward specific topics, and goals and moderating the interaction between members.

The process that occurs varies depending on the therapeutic goals of the group. You may simply talk, engage in role-playing, or perform other group activities.

To learn about the groups available at Nugent Family Counseling Center, call one of the offices or book an appointment online today.