Therapy takes a variety of different shapes and forms. One of the most popular and effective types of therapy is that which takes place in a group. Many people may initially feel apprehensive and even anxious about participating in a group therapy session. They may feel intimidated by the prospect of sharing their thoughts, feelings, and worries in front of other people. However, in many circumstances, group therapy is extremely valuable and actually the best way to support someone who is struggling in an area of their life.

Group therapy sessions can contain anywhere from 5 to 15 people, although this may vary depending on the therapist and the type of session that it is. However, one thing remains constant. What is discussed within the group stays within the group. This is one of the foundational elements of group therapy, which fosters trust and builds relationships and rapport within the group.

There are a variety of reasons why group therapy is beneficial.

Support

Unsurprisingly, one of the biggest benefits of any sort of therapy, and particularly group therapy, is the support that it offers. Hearing from other people who are experiencing the same issues as you can remind you that you aren’t alone. This, in turn, can provide some relief and prevent you from feeling completely isolated.

Sense of belonging

Everyone wants to feel that they fit in somewhere, and for some people, this only happens when they are surrounded by other people who understand them and accept them. At group therapy, you will be with people who know exactly where you are coming from and where there is no judgment, only empathy. Many people find that group therapy gives them a sense of belonging that they just can’t find anywhere else.

Confidentiality

Talking really is the best form of therapy, but many people feel unable or unhappy to burden family, friends, and colleagues with their worries and concerns for fear of causing them stress or being judged. Group therapy sessions are confidential, meaning that you can unburden yourself without worrying about the impact it has on people you know.

New strategies

Everyone in your group may be at very different stages in their own treatment/recovery and this can enable you to learn new strategies from them and share your own experiences which in turn may help others who are less into their journey than yourself.

Sounding board

It can be very easy to get wrapped up in your own way of thinking that it makes it impossible to see or regard any other opinions. However, when you are talking with other people, it can give you a wider range of perspective that helps you to see things from different points of view. This can make it easier to rationalize what you are going through and deal with it from a practical rather than emotional stance.

Motivation

Seeing and hearing how other people are overcoming their issues won’t only give you valuable advice that you may be able to apply to your own situation but will also encourage and motivate you to push yourself harder to overcome it.

Social skills

Meeting and talking to people in a group setting is great for improving your social skills. This is particularly valuable if your personal situation means that you are largely isolated from other people, for example, if you have anxiety and find it difficult to get out and meet people.

Cost

Group therapy is usually considerably less expensive than one-to-one. This doesn’t mean that the quality of the treatment is any less, far from it. Instead, the counselor’s costs are covered by multiple people rather than an individual.

Group therapy is much more than just a group of people chatting. Instead, they are sessions that are led by trained, certified professionals who have the experience needed to help people to make significant positive changes and improve their issues within a group setting.

To find out more about why group therapy may be beneficial for you, please get in touch with my practice where I will be dedicated and delighted to assist you.