What is Group Therapy?

Group psychotherapy, like individual psychotherapy, is intended to help people who have a desire to improve their ability to cope with

difficulties and problems in their lives. Group therapy focuses on interpersonal interactions, so relationship problems are addressed frequently in groups. The aim of group psychotherapy is to help people solve emotional difficulties and to encourage interpersonal connection.

How does Group Psychotherapy work?

Members of the group share personal issues that can be discussed in a variety of ways. Participants talk about personal events from the week, historical events and issues, and current problems. They also share feelings and thoughts about what happened in previous sessions, relate to issues raised by other members or to the leader's comments. Group members can react, give feedback, encourage, give support or criticism, or share their own thoughts and feelings. 

Group interactions help participants solve problems, and identify and change patterns that are sabotaging relationships. The great advantage of group psychotherapy is the opportunity to work on these patterns in the "here and now" - in a group situation similar to other life situations and interpersonal events.

Some of the most powerful aspects of group therapy are the sense of support and feeling that you are not alone in your experiences, thoughts, and feelings, and the sense of hopefulness that groups engender. Frequently the people you meet in group are similar to people from your past or current life with whom you have had difficulty. In group therapy you have the opportunity to work through these situations.

The feedback that group members get from one another helps increase awareness and change maladaptive patterns of behavior. Group members begin to feel they are not alone with their problems and that there are others who can help. The group becomes a source of support and strength in times of stress. It can also become a laboratory for practicing new behaviors.

 Who can benefit from Group Psychotherapy?

Groups are suitable for many different types of people and issues, from those who want to develop their interpersonal skills to people with emotional problems like anxiety and depression, etc. Groups are especially effective for people with interpersonal difficulties who are struggling with relationship issues like intimacy, trust, and self-esteem.

What are the different types of Group?

There are many kinds of groups and group therapy techniques. Groups vary from classic psychotherapy groups, where the process of the group (as opposed to the topics or content) is emphasized, to psychoeducational, which are similar to classes, to support groups. Psychoeducational groups usually focus on common areas of concern, notably relationships, anger, stress-management etc. They are frequently time-limited and involve some teaching. Support groups are for people who are in similar situations or crises (e.g. bereaved parents, sexually abused women, domestic violence, etc) who are seeking assistance in getting through a particularly difficult time. There are men’s groups, women’s groups, coed groups, gay and/or lesbian groups, and groups for teens, etc. Some groups are ‘open’, in other words, allow new members, while others are ‘closed’, and do not allow new members. Some groups are ‘drop in’, allowing members to come and go as needed, while others require a commitment to attendance. Each approach has its advantages and drawbacks.

 If you are interested in joining a group, it is important to consult with a therapist or other professional to determine which kind of group matches your particular needs and situation.

How to choose a Group-Psychotherapist

When choosing a group psychotherapist, look for a well-trained, reliable, and ethical professional. Many group therapists belong to the American Groups Psychotherapy Association and many are Certified Group Therapists. Both indicate at least a minimal level of expertise in groups.

 If you are in individual therapy, your therapist may be able to recommend a group for you. It will be important for your group and individual therapists to collaborate. Depending on a group therapist’s approach and philosophy, s/he may or may not open his/her own groups to their individual clients. An experienced group therapist will usually interview you before your entering the group. The interview will also provide you with an opportunity to ask the therapist questions about experience, expertise, and fees (including costs for missed sessions), etc. It is vital that you feel comfortable with a group therapist. Above all, trust your feelings: If you don’t feel comfortable, find another.

What is expected of the participant?

In groups that are not ‘drop in’, participants are expected to be present each week and come on time; both attendance and punctuality are very important. Members are required to maintain confidentiality, meaning that all information discussed at the group and the identities of group members cannot be shared with anyone outside the group. In some groups, participants are asked to commit to attending for a specified length of time at the beginning; the usual commitment is between 3 and 6 months. This allows time to get familiar with individual participants, the facilitator, the way in which the group works, and to get a sense of the benefits you are getting from the group.

 One thing that is not required is that you will not be required to talk, or reveal intimate issues if you do not want to. Although your presence will be required, there is no requirement to share anything you do not want to share, or even to talk. However, it is clear that the more you can participate, be open and talk about yourself, your feelings and thoughts - the more you can gain from this experience.

Technical Details

Usually, there are between 8 and 12 members in a group. The length of a group therapy session varies depending on the group. Most meet from one to two hours weekly at an agreed upon time. The duration of the group depends on many components such as the severity of the problems and the goals of the group; it can last from months to years. You should allow 4 to 6 months to pass in order to feel the benefits of the group.