GROUP THERAPY

Group therapy is a very powerful treatment method in which one or two therapists lead a group of 5 to 10 participants. Sometimes group therapy is paired with individual therapy, allowing a client to focus on different concerns with different modes of treatment.

 

Sometimes group therapy can focus on specific issues, like living with chronic pain, or managing depression, or reducing anxiety attacks. Sometimes these groups are more interactive and can be very helpful with interpersonal concerns, such as shyness, low self-esteem, anger, or dealing with prejudice. Group therapy can be like taking a class and learning new skills along with other participants, or it can be more like holding a conversation among similar people who share a common understanding.

 

Joining a group might sound scary, distasteful, or too exposing, and group treatment is not for everyone. However, most group members report that, often to their surprise, the experience is very rewarding. They enjoy the bond that eventually forms with other members; group participants can find others who might relate to their concerns, offer some practical ideas, share meaningful feedback, and hold them accountable for working on their goals.

 

Finally, group counseling can be more economical. It can permit therapists to spread the fees for their time across multiple clients. At Fresh Air Psychological Services, group counseling sessions cost nearly a third less than individual sessions. Reach out to learn whether the right group is offered for you.