Group Therapy
Do you feel isolated in your emotional problems? Do you want to learn how to communicate with others and build more fulfilling relationships while working through your interpersonal struggles? If so, group therapy may be an effective treatment option for you. At Empowered Life Counseling, we offer group therapy as part of our comprehensive mental health services.
What is Group Therapy?
Group therapy is a form of psychotherapy that involves a therapist working with a small group of individuals who share similar issues or concerns, usually meeting weekly for one to two hours. The group can be composed of people with diverse or very similar backgrounds.
How Group Therapy Works
The therapist facilitates the conversation in group therapy, but the members are encouraged to participate actively. The therapist may ask open-ended questions, provide feedback, and offer support and guidance as needed. Members are also encouraged to support and give feedback to each other.
Group therapy sessions can have a structured or unstructured format. Some sessions may focus on a specific topic, while others may allow members to discuss whatever is on their minds. The therapist may assign homework or encourage members to practice particular skills between sessions. Group therapy can be short-term or long-term, depending on the individual’s needs. It can be an effective treatment option alone or an adjunct to individual or family therapy.
Benefits of Group Therapy
Group therapy has several benefits that make it an effective treatment option for many mental health conditions. Here are some of the benefits of group therapy:
1. A sense of community
Group therapy provides a sense of community and belonging that can help individuals feel less isolated and alone. Sharing your experiences with others who are going through similar challenges can create a bond that can be incredibly healing.
2. Learning from others
In group therapy, you can learn from the experiences of others and gain insight into how they have coped with similar challenges. Seeing how others have overcome their struggles can provide inspiration and motivation to make positive changes in your own life.
3. Feedback and support
Group therapy provides an opportunity to receive feedback and support from others who understand what you are going through. The group can offer suggestions, encouragement, and validation that can help you feel more confident and capable.
4. Improved communication and social skills
Group therapy can improve communication and social skills. In a safe and supportive environment, individuals can practice expressing themselves, giving and receiving feedback, and building stronger relationships.
Internal Family Systems (IFS) Group
Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a therapeutic model that helps people develop self-awareness, confidence, and compassion. This group will help you better understand your inner world, and in the group, we will practice ways to engage with your thoughts and emotions (parts) in a successful and empowering way. You can take these practices into your daily life, which can help you develop a better relationship with yourself and others!
Teen Group: The Circle
The Circle is an 8-week therapy group for anxious teenage adventurers looking to slay some dragons. In The Circle, you will find a safe environment of comrades supporting you while you begin your quest to slay the dragons robbing you of peace.
FAQ
Support groups are often led by peers, whereas group therapy is facilitated by a licensed therapist or counselor. While support groups provide a sense of community and validation, group therapy offers more structured and focused treatment.
Group therapy sessions can range from three to 12 people, depending on the therapist’s approach and the individual’s needs.
Sharing personal experiences is an essential part of group therapy, but individuals are encouraged to share at their own pace and comfort level. The therapist will create a safe and supportive environment for sharing and will not force anyone to share before they are ready.
Yes, attending group therapy does not preclude you from seeing an individual therapist or taking medication. Group therapy can be used in combination with individual therapy or medication to provide a more comprehensive treatment approach.
Group therapy can be an effective treatment option for individuals with a variety of mental health concerns. If you are unsure if group therapy is right for you, speak to a licensed therapist or counselor who can help you determine the best treatment approach for your needs.
No, we do not bill insurance for our groups or provide a superbill for you to submit for reimbursement from your insurance provider.