How to Prepare for Your First Group Therapy Session

Attending your first group therapy session can be an exciting and nerve-wracking experience. You may have questions about what to expect, who you will be sharing the room with, and how to make the most of your time in therapy. In this blog post, we'll explore some tips for preparing for your first group therapy session, so you can feel more confident and comfortable as you begin your journey towards healing and growth.

Familiarize yourself with the group's focus and goals

Before attending your first group therapy session, it's important to familiarize yourself with the group's focus and goals. What issues or concerns is the group designed to address? Who is the group intended for? By understanding the purpose and structure of the group, you can feel more confident and prepared as you enter the therapy room.

For example, if your child is attending a group focused on relationships and awareness for middle school students, this is probably something that you saw value in. You may support your child or teen by talking with them about what specific issues or challenges you are facing in your relationships, and how you hope the group will help you address these concerns. If you are attending a group focused on women's empowerment, you may want to reflect on your own personal goals and how you hope the group will help you achieve these goals.

Set realistic expectations for yourself

Group therapy can be an incredibly valuable and transformative experience, but it's important to set realistic expectations for yourself. Remember that therapy is a process, and it may take time to see significant changes or improvements in your mental health and well-being.

Instead of putting pressure on yourself to "fix" all of your problems in one session, focus on the present moment and what you can learn from the group experience. Be open to feedback and suggestions from the therapist and other group members, and remember that everyone in the group is there to support each other on their individual journeys.

Take care of your physical and emotional needs

Attending group therapy can be emotionally taxing, so it's important to take care of your physical and emotional needs before and after the session. Make sure you get enough rest and nourishment before the session, and bring any necessary items with you, such as a water bottle or a journal.

After the session, give yourself time to process and reflect on what you learned in therapy. Practice self-care activities that help you feel grounded and centered, such as taking a walk, spending time in nature, or practicing mindfulness meditation.

In conclusion, attending your first group therapy session can be both exciting and intimidating. By taking the time to prepare yourself mentally, emotionally, and physically, you can enter the therapy room with greater confidence and a clearer sense of purpose. Remember to be patient and kind to yourself, and trust in the process of therapy as you work towards healing and growth.

RAFT Counseling is excited to now be offering groups. Reach out today to get connected, we would love to support you in reaching your goals with group counseling!