A Quick Guide to How Group Therapy May Be Helpful
Group therapy may be a great adjunctive resource if you would like more support outside of individual therapy or seeking a like-minded community. Group therapy is a small group of people that meet to discuss their problems together under the supervision of a therapist or co-therapists. There are a variety type of groups including grief groups, recovery groups and support groups. In his book The Theory and Practice of Group Psychotherapy, Irvin D. Yalom discusses key principles that create a successful group therapy experience. Here are a few:
The instillation of hope: Seeing others process and recover during their treatment gives hope to group members who are in different stages of their treatment.
Universality: Connecting with others who have a shared experience helps group members realize they are not alone in their struggle.
Imparting Information: Helping other group members by sharing and reflecting on their own experiences.
Altruism: Helping group members recognize their own confidence by helping others realize their strengths.
Catharsis: By sharing pain, experiences and feelings with the group will help relieve guilt or stress.
Group therapy has many benefits including creating a community, gaining coping skills, finding and becoming a role model, having a safe haven and is cost effective. Group therapy can be the right choice for you if you feel alone in your struggle and want to connect with others.