Group therapy is a form of psychotherapy in which several people meet together to explore issues, solve problems, and gain insight into their lives. Unlike individual therapy, group therapy allows for many different perspectives in the room at once. Group therapy sessions are typically led by a therapist and are usually structured around a theme or topic that the participants choose. The therapist may also use techniques such as role-playing or guided meditation to facilitate discussion.
This type of support can be a very effective way to explore issues, solve problems, and gain insight into your life. It allows for many different perspectives in the room at once, so you can see how other people view certain situations or events. The group may also provide support and feedback on decisions you make or actions you take.
The benefits of group therapy include:
Help reduce feelings of isolation or loneliness; being part of a group can offer a sense of community and belonging that some people don’t get from individual therapy sessions or even from friends or family members.
People with similar issues may be able to relate more easily than they could with someone who doesn’t have those same struggles.
People who participate in group therapy tend to have higher self-esteem than those who don’t participate in groups because they have the opportunity to share what they know about themselves with others who are interested in hearing about them (as opposed to simply talking about themselves with their individual therapist).
Group therapy can also help people learn how to deal with others in a healthy way. Group therapy allows participants to practice interacting with each other, which can be an important part of recovery from certain mental health issues. Group therapy is particularly beneficial for people who suffer from social anxiety. It can also be helpful for those who have difficulty interacting with others and need to learn how to do so in a healthy way.
Group Therapy exists for a variety of concerns and populations such as substance use-specific groups, grief and bereavement groups, parenting groups, life-transition support groups, LGBTQIA groups, or treatment support groups. Group Therapy is offered at a variety of mental health locations such as community mental health clinics, hospitals, and group practices (like Ignite!).
If you are interested in learning about Group Therapy options in your area, please check out what Ignite has to offer!