Group therapy is a form of psychotherapy where one or more therapists work with a small group of individuals. Participants meet regularly to share their opinions or stories about their life challenges and successes.
Sometimes, the clinician in charge can teach group members certain skills such as new behaviors, coping skills, or anger management. Other times, participants share stories and experiences with one another.
Group therapy is often a critical component of substance use and mental health disorder therapy. At Horizon, we offer group therapy for some patients in both an inpatient and outpatient setting.
If you’re considering participating in a group, the idea may seem a bit scary. After all, it can be intimidating to think about opening up and being honest and vulnerable with complete strangers. However, many group members start to see the benefits of participating in group therapy after only a few times.
Benefits of Group Therapy
- Group Therapy Shows You That You’re Not Alone. Whenever we face difficulty, we may think that we are alone. Though it is true that each of us are unique, not all of us are alone in our struggle. In fact, there are many people who may be facing the same or a similar situation. Group therapy can bring forward the feeling of togetherness and reduce the feeling of isolation. You may experience a sense of relief that there are others that share in the same challenges – and that you can learn from one another on how to overcome them.
- Group Therapy Gives You a Different Perspective. When in group therapy, the members are encouraged to turn to each other for feedback and support rather than each member receiving individual therapy from the therapist. While one person talks, others support him or her by listening. By listening to other people’s point of view, you can see your own situation differently.
- Group Therapy Propels You Forward To Relate To Others. Group therapy offers you a safe place to make connections to others. Inside the safe shell of group therapy, you can be open and honest without fear of rejection or judgement. When you see that others in the group are doing better, you may be encouraged to take the steps that they’ve taken.
- Group Therapy is Cathartic. Sharing your feelings and experiences with a group of people can help relieve feelings of pain, guilt, or stress. Sharing often leads to healing. In order to make the most out of group therapy, you are encouraged to participate and share your experiences.
- Group Therapy Provides Hope. When you see other people who have faced similar challenges to you and have overcome them, it’s the first step in realizing that you can overcome the same obstacles. It’s inspiring to hear stories of hope, healing and recovery.
Your Turn
Are there any other benefits of group therapy that you’ve experienced? Or, do you have any questions that are left uncovered in this post? Let us know in the comments section below.
Sources:
https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-group-therapy-2795760
https://psychcentral.com/lib/5-benefits-of-group-therapy/
https://www.everydayhealth.com/news/benefits-group-therapy-mental-health-treatment/