Are you one of the 31.1% of American adults who have suffered from, or are suffering with, an anxiety disorder? Or perhaps you are facing teen anxiety and depression, which is making it difficult to cope with the demands of life.
Protecting our mental health is vital to our sense of joy and wellbeing, and therapy can play an essential role. In fact, between 70-90% of people have felt an improvement in their quality of life by including therapy in their treatment program.
But what if you’re not comfortable with one-to-one counseling? Then group counseling might be just what you need.
What is group counseling, and what does it involve? Here’s a quick breakdown of what you need to know.
What Is Group Counseling?
Like individual counseling and talk therapy, group counseling is a way to help achieve better mental health. Group counseling involves more than one individual receiving therapy at the same time. While some people prefer to talk to an individual during their therapy session, others prefer the support and growth that group therapy offers.
What Happens In a Group Therapy Session?
Before a therapy group is formed, the therapist will meet with each individual. They will see whether the individual would benefit from group therapy, and then whether they would be the right fit for the group.
The group therapy environment is one of trust, where members can speak freely and confidentially about their problems. Group members talk about the challenges they are facing. Nothing is forced, and there is no pressure to discuss difficult subjects.
Members of the group listen to each other and can gain help from an interchange of experiences. The counselor will help to guide the session and will model appropriate behavior. This helps group members to understand the standards of behavior, and also avoids any negative cliques that may form.
What Are the Benefits of Group Therapy?
There are many reasons why some individuals prefer a group therapy environment as opposed to a one-on-one session. Counseling in company has many benefits, which we’ll discuss below.
You’re Not Alone
One major benefit is that group members realize they are not alone in their situation. Knowing that other people are facing similar issues can give them assurance and help them feel understood.
Support
Individuals in a group setting not only receive support and encouragement from others but also have the opportunity to give the same. This can help them to feel empowered, and form a bond with others in the group. This can be especially helpful for those who struggle with social anxiety, shyness, and low self-esteem.
Social Skills
Some group members may struggle to express themselves outside of the counseling environment. Learning how to share openly and freely within the group can help develop skills like self expression, and dealing with critisicm.
Context
Listening as others express similar problems can help a group member to contextualise their own issues. Developing this self-awareness can help them to more easily cope with the issue as a result.
More Accessible
Some would benefit from therapy but can’t afford individual counseling services. Group counseling is a more affordable option, and makes counseling more accessible.
Why Group Counseling May Be Your Preferred Choice
Group counseling is one of many ways that individuals can receive the help they need. Group therapy sessions take place in a trusted environment, and are a place for free and open conversation. Not only will individuals talk to a therapist, but they’ll also form connections and receive support from fellow group members.
Are you ready to take control of your situation and start feeling better today? Then contact us for your free 15-minute consultation and see how we can help.
Honor Your Emotions is a therapy practice in Dublin, CA serving the East Bay Area including Pleasanton, San Ramon, Livermore and Danville.
Call (925) 577-4732 today for a free consultation!
