what is Group Psychotherapy?
Group psychotherapy is a form of talk therapy wherein a therapist, or a group facilitator guides multiple people through a collective therapy session, usually with a common topic, goal, message, or mission for the day.
Group psychotherapy isn’t always talk therapy – there are also forms of group psychotherapy utilizing different activities, such as team building exercises, art, or experiential therapy, to guide multiple people through the therapy process. Group therapy exists in support groups and skills training groups, as well as mental health treatment clinics or outpatient programs.
As a concept, group psychotherapy was first developed and defined by Nicholas Trigant Burrow, Joseph H. Pratt, and Paul Schilder as group analysis, before the Second World War. Their work inspired other psychoanalysts to continue to work on incorporating psychotherapy into group settings. Today, different forms of group therapy exist, such as systems-centered therapy, social therapy, family therapy, psychoeducational therapy, skills development therapy, interpersonal therapy, cognitive-behavioral group therapy, and more.
Benefits of Group Psychotherapy
Group psychotherapy sets itself apart from individual therapy through the emotional support and diverse perspectives offered by a group dynamic.
Learning to tackle interpersonal and emotional problems in a group setting helps destigmatize mental health issues, grow bonds of relatability between members of a group, help hone social skills, and give insight into how different people with different backgrounds struggle or cope with similar issues, thoughts, and problems.
Of course, there are challenges to group psychotherapy. The barrier of entry can be high for those who feel anxious about sharing their thoughts and feelings. On the other hand, it can be a great tool for learning to open up.
How Group Psychotherapy Works
Different forms of group psychotherapy have emerged over time. Generally speaking, group psychotherapy aims to establish a healthy group dynamic, and the first part of the group usually focuses on introductions and interpersonal icebreaker activities.
From there, individuals within the group can willingly discuss, or be called to discuss something relevant to the session’s topic or goal.
Group activities can also extend past the introduction phase into the therapy session itself, such as filling out worksheets, or journaling.
Who Can Benefit from Group Psychotherapy?
In addition to mental health support, group psychotherapy or group support is common among people who are trying to cope with emotional problems, such as anger management, post-divorce relationship issues, chronic pain, or grief and loss.
Group Psychotherapy at Resolutions
Joining a group psychotherapy session can be helpful, especially for those who struggle to be open or honest about their feelings and mental health problems with their loved ones or closest friends. Group psychotherapy helps teach you to destigmatize mental health issues and learn not to blame yourself or feel guilt for your problems. Group support can also help develop and improve socialization skills, grow feelings of universality (a sense of belonging), and address relationship trauma.
Get in touch with us to learn more about our group psychotherapy offerings at Resolutions.
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