What is group therapy? This is a question I am often asked by clients who are confused about the concept. Group therapy is a small, regular group meeting facilitated by a practitioner. It is a safe, and contained space where you can explore different themes, in the presence of others.
How does group therapy work?
In group therapy, there are agreed boundaries that allow gentle exploration of the concerns or issues the participants bring. The therapist holds these boundaries, gives time to each participant, and allows the group to slowly build connection through hearing each other’s stories.
What can group therapy help with?
Group therapy can be really helpful for areas such as social anxiety and eating disorders. Being in a group of other people, who are experiencing similar challenges can offer a deeply healing experience. Sharing over time, and receiving supportive responses can help challenge the anxieties that we feel. Having an experienced therapist there to support gentle exploration of how it feels to share, can help access deeper thoughts and foster connection with others.
What do you do in group therapy?
Typically group therapy starts with an introduction, and contracting for the group norms. Norms include confidentiality, respect and empathy towards the rest of the group. Those that want to share, can put themselves forward, and the therapist will divide the time equally. We listen, engage and give everyone the same respect and time to hear what they have brought. If the participant who is sharing asks, we can offer them thoughts on how their sharing has impacted us. The therapist will invite others to share verbal strokes and support. We close sessions with a check out.
How often is group therapy?
A therapy group meets weekly, for six weeks. Depending on group size will range in length from one hour, to one and a half hours.
If you are interested in finding out more about therapy groups, take a look at www.thegoodwork.co.uk or email [email protected]
