Group therapy
From Drug Rehab Wiki
Most people think of psychotherapy as a one-on-one session with a trained mental health professional, such as a psychologist, psychiatrist, or clinical social worker. Some may have experienced couples therapy when dealing with marital issues, or family therapy when a child is acting out. However, another type of therapy that can be highly effective due to its own unique dynamics is group therapy.
Group therapy is a type of therapy that involves several individuals in a session at the same time. It is facilitated by a therapist and may take place in an outpatient setting, a psychiatric inpatient unit, a day treatment program, or a drug and alcohol residential treatment program.
In some cases, the members of the group share a common disorder, such as depression or anxiety. In other cases the group members may all have a common history, such as adults molested as children, or individuals who have substance abuse problems. On inpatient psychiatric units, the patients may have different diagnoses entirely, with the only common ground being their inpatient status.
Some individuals are often initially hesitant or reluctant to participate in group therapy. It is one thing to open up to a therapist who is a trained professional. And for some that is difficult enough. The thought of sharing one’s most personal feelings with an entire group of strangers can be unnerving, especially for those who are particularly private by nature. However, when a therapist suggests group therapy to a client, it is usually because he or she knows the person has much to gain from the process and will likely find it to be very helpful.
Benefits of group therapy
Group therapy has many advantages and benefits over individual therapy. Following are several:
1. It helps people realize they are not alone in their feelings and struggles. In individual therapy, it is not uncommon for the client to assume (often erroneously) that the therapist has it “all together” and therefore cannot possibly understand his or her unique situation or experience. Granted, in many cases the therapist hasn’t battled the client’s particular disorder or been in the same situation, and certainly he or she hasn’t walked in the client’s shoes.
Unfortunately, though, at times this assumption can create a rift in the therapeutic relationship or resentment on the part of the client. And typically, due to the very dynamics of individual therapy, it is inappropriate for the therapist to share personal experiences to which the client may be able to relate.
When clients participate in group therapy, however, they quickly find that several other people have shared similar experiences and can truly understand how they are feeling. The sense of support and community can be very empowering.
2. Group members can learn a lot from each other. Each person has unique experiences to share. Members can disclose what worked for them and what didn’t, and help other group members in the process. As each member grows personally, he or she can model new, healthier behaviors for others in the group. Each person can also use the group setting to practice new skills in a safe, supportive environment.
3. The group experience serves as a microcosm for each person’s life in the real world. Unhealthy patterns of communicating and relating will inevitably surface as time goes on. Group members can give feedback to each other regarding these patterns. Also, the therapist can help members use these interactions to learn and practice more effective interpersonal skills in a safe environment. Each member can also use the group experience to gain valuable insight into their relationship issues outside the group.
4. Group therapy can be a healing experience for the members. Many participants often have a history of painful interpersonal experiences, whether from childhood or more recent relationships. In the group process, members often develop a strong, healthy sense of community or family with each other, which allows old wounds to begin to heal.
5. Group therapy is usually much less expensive than individual therapy. This can be particularly helpful for those with limited insurance coverage for mental health treatment, or no health insurance at all. This enables many people to benefit from much needed therapy without creating significant financial strain.
While each type of therapy (individual, couples, family, or group) has its place and its unique advantages, group therapy can be one of the most powerful and effective types of therapy for individuals of all ages and backgrounds.
