Group therapy may not be the first option people think of when they consider therapy, but it absolutely should be among those considered. Group therapy is a completely different dynamic setting compared to traditional 1-on-1 therapy. Being part of a larger group, recognizing you are not alone in your struggle, and just how much others are willing to help and support you is an incredible feeling!
The team of experts at Guided Grace Family and Youth Services offers a comprehensive range of therapy services. We have helped people from all walks of life, by providing a therapy program that is best suited to benefit them and help them get better. We aren’t stuck in the past either, as we are open to new and emerging techniques that integrate technology into therapy sessions for an even greater outcome. This article aims to answer questions about what the average person can expect as they head into therapy.
What A Typical Group Therapy Session Looks Like
Group therapy involves one or more psychologists who lead small-to-medium-sized groups with up to 15 members. Each group typically meets once per week and will last around 1–2 hours depending on the group.
Groups will meet in a quiet room that is generally free of distractions, with a large circle of chairs so that group members can see each other as they are speaking and listening to one another. It’s important to see the speaker, as well as the other group members as they absorb the information being shared. A circle is a great way to make sure everyone feels equal and welcome, no one person is isolated and everyone is equally vulnerable.
To begin, each group member will introduce themselves and share why they are attending therapy. This is also a great opportunity to discuss any progress, obstacles, or setbacks they have experienced since the last session they attended.
The direction and details of the session will vary depending on the common issue at hand and what stage of the process everyone is at. However, the common elements you can expect is an environment that encourages open, honest communication and trust-building between group members and their psychologists.
Benefits of Group Therapy
Group therapy helps different people in different ways. Each participant often finds the value that they look for the most, which may include:
- A safe place to share their feelings and communicate about mental health
- Building a community – a place to feel supported by and offer support to others who are experiencing similar challenges – can reduce stigma and feelings of isolation
- Exposure to new ways of thinking, ideas, and beliefs that introduce you to new perspectives
- Positive accountability and encouragement to grow
- A place free of judgment
For a complete list of benefits, visit our full page on Group Therapy
Is This Type of Therapy Effective?
Absolutely – can be highly effective at helping people overcome and manage challenging aspects of life. The first and most important step of therapy is approaching with an open mind and being willing to make real changes. If you can approach therapy with that mindset, group therapy can be incredibly effective.
Research has shown that group therapy is an effective way to help people cope with psychiatric and behavioral concerns. Patients often experience relief and reduced symptoms after engaging in therapy treatment. It also provides patients with beneficial skills to learn, develop coping mechanisms, and how to live with their symptoms.
Who Is This Form of Therapy For?
Group therapy sessions are usually focused around a specific, shared mental health concern, such as social anxiety or depression. Some other examples of conditions a group may focus on include:
- Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Panic disorder
- Fears & Phobias
- Depression
- ADHD
- Substance use disorder (SUD)
Group Therapy Services Available in Saginaw, Michigan
If you have questions about group therapy or would like to learn more about how the different methods of therapy can help you, reach out to the team at Guided Grace Family and Youth Services today!
Call our offices to speak with a member of our team or schedule a consultation online today!
