grayscale photo of people wearing shoes

Why Group Therapy Can Be One of the Best Ways to Heal

While it’s often believed that one-to-one therapy is superior to group therapy, my experience tells a different story. As a therapist who both facilitates and participates in therapy groups, I’ve seen firsthand the profound impact that group therapy can have on personal growth and healing.

For me, group therapy was transformative as it provided so many mirrors to look into – some that I liked, some that I didn’t. Being part of a group made me aware of my deep need to be seen and accepted, and how I avoid contact despite saying I want it. I could see how I contribute to my own invisibility, and the role that I often take in a group. It made me aware of how I use narratives to deflect from what is happening within me, and I practiced sitting with the uncomfortable feelings instead of trying to fix them. Group therapy helped me to face my fears, challenge authority figures, and embrace vulnerability by speaking my truth. I became more comfortable with myself and in the company of others.

Group therapy can be just as effective as individual therapy for many symptoms and conditions, and it allows one therapist to help several people at the same time. In fact, group therapy can sometimes be even more helpful because it reduces feelings of isolation and creates a sense of connection among participants.

Dr. Irvin D. Yalom, a well-known psychotherapist, believes that the group setting reflects our social interactions and gives us a chance to work through unresolved issues with others who face similar challenges. It’s all part of what he calls the “social microcosm”— the idea that how we act in the group reflects how we behave in our relationships outside of it.

Why Group Therapy Might Be Right for You

Group therapy can be particularly beneficial if you are ready to challenge yourself (to be more authentic and spontaneous), your fears and engage with others.

It’s an excellent option if you want to:

  • Gain diverse perspectives on your issues.
  • Develop and refine social skills.
  • Experience the healing power of shared experiences.
  • Receive support and feedback from a community setting.

For someone who typically avoids conflict, standing up for themselves for the first time in group therapy can be a life-changing experience. Similarly, someone who tends to approach conflicts too aggressively can receive valuable feedback on how to manage conflicts more constructively.

A therapy group can resemble a family in many ways. In this setting, as a member you will have the opportunity to examine how your childhood experiences shaped your personality and behaviours, offering you the chance to find new ways of relating.

However, group therapy might not be suitable for everyone. Maybe you prefer a more private, individualised approach and feel more comfortable sharing personal experiences with just one person. Discuss your options with your doctor or therapist to determine the best treatment plan for you.

Finding the Right Group for Your Needs

Choosing the right type of group is very important, so here are some common types of groups to consider:

  1. Support Groups: Offer emotional support and practical advice for those facing similar challenges, such as chronic illness or addiction.
  2. Therapy Groups: Led by licensed therapists, these groups focus on specific psychological issues, combining therapeutic techniques with group interactions.
  3. Skill-Building Groups: Help participants develop specific skills like communication or stress management through practical exercises.
  4. Psychoeducational Groups: Focus on educating participants about mental health topics and providing strategies for managing issues.
  5. Process Groups: Emphasise real-time interpersonal interactions to explore thoughts, feelings, and behaviours, offering feedback and addressing relational patterns.
  6. Behavioural Therapy Groups: Utilise techniques like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) to address specific behaviours, such as procrastination or anxiety.

Group therapy can offer a rich and supportive environment for personal growth and healing. It provides opportunities for shared experiences and diverse feedback, which can lead to profound insights and transformation.

If you’re ready to step out of your comfort zone and explore deeper layers of yourself, group therapy can be a powerful tool for transformation. It’s not just about talking; it’s about experiencing change in real-time, with the support of others who are walking a similar path. The growth you’ll experience can be profound, and the connections you make can last a lifetime.

What aspects of your life might benefit from the collective wisdom and support of a group setting?

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Cookie Consent with Real Cookie Banner