What to Except in Group Therapy
Finding Connection and Healing Together
from your RAFT Counseling Team
If you're considering therapy as a way to improve your mental health, you may be wondering about group therapy as an option. Group therapy can be an awesome alternative or supplement to individual therapy. Sometimes it can be a helpful way to continue towards your goals if you are feeling stuck in individual work. Group therapy is a form of counseling that involves a therapist leading a group of individuals who are experiencing similar challenges. Here is more of what to expect in group therapy.
Benefits of Group Therapy
Group therapy can be a highly effective form of therapy, offering several benefits over individual therapy. Some of the benefits of group therapy include:
Increased social support: Group therapy provides an opportunity to connect with others who are experiencing similar challenges, providing a sense of community and social support.
Learning from others: In group therapy, individuals can learn from the experiences of others, gaining new perspectives and insights that can be helpful in their own lives.
Lower cost: Group therapy is often more affordable than individual therapy, making it a more accessible option for many people.
Practice social skills: For individuals who struggle with social anxiety or other social challenges, group therapy can provide a safe and supportive environment to practice social skills.
RAFT Counseling talks more about group therapy and it’s benefits here.
Structure of Group Therapy
Group therapy typically involves a therapist leading a group of 6-10 individuals, with sessions lasting between 60-90 minutes. The group meets on a regular basis, usually once a week or every other week.
In group therapy, individuals are encouraged to share their experiences and feelings with the group, with the therapist facilitating the discussion and providing guidance and support. The therapist may also assign homework or other activities to help individuals practice new skills or techniques between sessions.
Common Types of Group Therapy
There are several different types of group therapy, each with its own focus and approach. Some of the most common types of group therapy include:
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) groups: CBT groups focus on changing negative patterns of thinking and behavior, helping individuals develop new coping strategies and improve their mood.
Support groups: Support groups provide a safe and supportive environment for individuals to share their experiences and feelings with others who are going through similar challenges.
Psychoeducational groups: Psychoeducational groups focus on providing education and information on specific topics, such as stress management or communication skills.