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What is Group Therapy?

This article provides details of group therapy, such as benefits and limitations.  Read on to learn more about treatment

Fundamentals of Group Therapy

Mental disorders are not always easy to cope with; each person will have unique challenges and experiences. Fortunately, plenty of treatments are available. One treatment is group therapy, a type of therapy in a group setting. Most groups will target a specific problem such as anxiety, depression, or loss. 

What to Expect in Group Therapy?

Group therapy typically involves a group of five to fifteen patients. Sessions usually range from one to two hours and are conducted once or twice a week. It may be used as primary therapy, or it may be used alongside other types of therapy. 

Is Group Therapy Effective? 

Therapy groups are influential because they allow people to share their problems with like-minded individuals. They help people know they are not alone. Additionally, building interpersonal relationships with those experiencing similar challenges often boosts accountability. They will enable them to put their problems in perspective, build a support network and look at situations differently.

Types of Group Therapy

There are several types of group therapy as follows: 

Cognitive Behavioral Groups

These groups use cognitive behavioral therapy and DBT group therapy to promote healing. It aims to identify negative thought processes and replace them with positive thought processes to produce healthier behavior patterns.1 

Interpersonal Groups

These group therapy sessions focus on the interactions between members and encourage networking to overcome emotional issues.2

Psychoeducational Groups

These types of group therapy educate patients about their disorders to understand better and manage their issues.3

Skills Development Groups

The purpose of group therapy is to teach participants valuable skills that raise their self-esteem and help them become functioning members of society. 

Support Groups

Support group therapy sessions encourage patients to help each other overcome their mental issues.4

What Group Therapy Can Help With

There are many advantages of group therapy for people dealing with various disorders. They will be detailed below.

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

People with ADHD have difficulty focusing and carrying out tasks. Group therapy may help them find out about methods for improving focus that have worked well for others.  

Depression

Depression is characterized by excessive and often unexplained feelings of sadness. Psychotherapy groups provide a social outlet that minimizes depression while suggesting methods for coping. 

Eating Disorders

Various eating disorders can affect mental and physical health. Mental health group therapy helps participants identify the problem at its root to stop unhealthy behaviors. 

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

GAD is characterized by persistent feelings of uncontrollable anxiety and panic attacks. Group therapy techniques can be used to reduce anxiety symptoms. 

Anger Management

People who experience episodes of anger outbursts may benefit from group therapy interventions. The sessions can teach them how to deal with their emotions more healthily. 

Chronic Pain

People can attend therapy groups to learn ways to deal with chronic pain. They may also be helpful if the pain is related to a mental disorder. 

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

PTSD is an emotional disorder brought on by a traumatic incident that occurred in a person’s life. People may better learn how to process their trauma in a group counseling setting. 

Rules of Group Therapy

There are specific ground rules for therapy participants must abide by. If they do not follow these rules, they may be kicked out of their groups. Breaking the rules may also make goals of group therapy harder to attain. They include the following:

  • Maintain Confidentiality: Participants should not discuss what happened in group therapy sessions with anyone outside the group. 
  • Commitment to Attendance: Participants should attend all team therapy sessions unless they have a valid excuse. 
  • No Socializing with Group Members: While some groups may host social events and group therapy activities for adults and encourage sponsorship, it’s best not to socialize with group members outside of sessions and group-sponsored affairs. This ensures confidentiality, and that everyone feels comfortable sharing intimate details of their lives.
  • Communicate with Words, Not Actions: Team therapy encourages members to communicate with words, not actions, to keep emotions under control. 
  • Participate: To get the most out of a group therapy session, it is important to share your thoughts with others during sessions.

Benefits of Group Therapy

There are many benefits of group therapy. These include (but are not limited to) the following positive symptoms.

Groups Provide Support

A group therapy program provides support for its members. It is comforting and encouraging to have others to lean on and provide mutual support for.

Groups Can Propel You Forward

Therapy groups can give you the encouragement you need to move forward in life. Accountability is a natural part of group therapy sessions.

Groups Provide a Sounding Board

A closed therapy group provides a sounding board allowing you to talk through your issues. 

Groups Promote Social Skills

Group therapy exercises encourage social skills so you can cope in various social situations. 

Group Therapy Costs Less Than Individual Counseling

If you compare group therapy to individual therapy, group therapy costs less. This is because the therapist’s compensation is split among the group.

Groups Teach You About Yourself

When you discuss your problems with others, you learn more about yourself. 

Group Therapy

Find Group Therapy at Anew Treatment Center

Many facilities offer group therapy, but Anew Treatment Center takes an approach that sets us apart. We integrate a group therapy program alongside other forms of treatment to create a customized plan for each patient. We provide comprehensive care, ensuring that you or your loved one find the unique support needed to manage your emotional issues. 

If you are dealing with a mental health disorder, group therapy may be the best solution. However, at Anew Treatment Center, we have a plethora of available treatment opportunities, as we are aware that each person thrives under different circumstances. We will help you carve out the best path for you in order to exceed your unique needs and expectations.

Contact Anew Treatment Center Today

Contact Anew Treatment Center for the high quality, professional, and compassionate care you deserve. We will help you move on to a happier, healthier lifestyle, and accomplish improved overall wellness along the way. 

Learn More About Our Treatment Programs

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