What is group therapy?

Group therapy is a helpful way for people who share a common problem to develop their interpersonal skills and get support and advice from each other. 

Unlike individual one-to-one sessions with a therapist, group therapy takes place with a group of people together (usually between 8 and 12).

Sessions are facilitated by one or more therapists and together with the therapist and the other group members, you will be encouraged to share your experiences and work on understanding yourself better.

 

Supporting each other

Therapy in a group environment can have many benefits such as offering a support network and providing the opportunity to meet others experiencing similar concerns.

Just like individual one-to-one therapy, all sessions are completely confidential. Group members will be asked to discuss, create and sign a working agreement which forms the 'rules' of the group. 

To ensure maximum effectiveness and group cohesion, we ask those attending group therapy to commit to an agreed number of sessions.  

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Group factors

Renowned psychiatrist, Irvin Yalom, believed that the group is where people are able to (perhaps for the first time) honestly communicate with individuals who will support them and provide them with respectful feedback. He identified the following 11 'therapeutic factors' that are present in all group therapy and influence change and healing. 

1. Instillation of hope

The group contains members at different stages of the treatment process. Seeing people who are coping or recovering gives hope to those at the beginning of the process.

2. Universality

Being part of a group of people who have the same experiences helps people see that what they are going through is universal and that they are not alone.

3. Imparting information

Group members can help each other by sharing information.

4. Altruism

Group members can share their strengths and help others in the group, which can boost self-esteem and confidence.

5. The corrective recapitulation of the family dynamic

Within the group, each member can explore how childhood experiences contributed to personality and behaviors. They can also learn to avoid behaviors that are destructive or unhelpful in real life.

6. Development of socialisation techniques

The group setting is a great place to practice new behaviors. The setting is safe and supportive, allowing group members to experiment without the fear of failure.

7. Imitative behavior

Individuals can model the behavior of other members of the group or observe and imitate the behavior of the therapist.

8. Interpersonal learning

By interacting with other people and receiving feedback from the group and the therapist, members of the group can gain a greater understanding of themselves.

9. Group cohesiveness

Because the group is united in a common goal, members gain a sense of belonging and acceptance.

10. Catharsis

Sharing feelings and experiences with a group of people can help relieve pain, guilt, or stress.

11. Existential factors

While working within a group offers support and guidance, group therapy helps members realize that they are responsible for their own lives, actions, and choices.

Group therapy can help with

While group therapy can be applied to a number of different mental health concerns, there are some areas that have been shown to be particularly benefitting from a group dynamic, for example:

Addiction

Having a strong support network is key when it comes to overcoming addiction. Some people can benefit from the support of others also struggling with addiction as it can be useful to hear how how others cope and learn how your behaviours can impact other people.

Anxiety / Social anxiety

If you suffer from anxiety, going out and interacting with others can feel like a real struggle. Knowing other group members have the same feelings, and hearing how they manage their anxiety can be beneficial. It can also give you the chance to develop better social skills. 

Self-harm

Being in a group with others who struggle with self-harm can help you feel less alone. Hearing how others cope with their problems, including practical advice and tips you may not have thought of can also be extremely helpful.

Depression

Depression can make you feel vulnerable and alone so getting out, meeting and talking to others is always useful. Interacting with others experiencing similar issues and discussing coping mechanisms can be helpful in the group setting. You may also find that imparting your own advice helps to boost your sense of self-esteem.

Frequently asked questions

We have compiled a list of commonly asked questions that you may find helpful. 

> Visit FAQs 

Get in touch

We know that taking the first step engaging with therapy can feel daunting which is why we offer a free 15 minute telephone consultation.  We would love to speak to you and answer any questions you have.

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