When most of us imagine therapy, we picture an intense one-on-one conversation. Your mental image might even involve a vintage chaise lounge! The truth is, while a therapy session can have this setup, it doesn’t have to.
One way to change up your classic session is to attend group therapy. This usually involves one or more psychologists leading discussions and activities with a number of clients. Groups center around a common challenge or goal, such as processing grief, managing relationships, or overcoming life transitions. You may be surprised to learn that research shows that group therapy is not only more efficient, it is equally if not more effective than individual therapy!
Of course, groups are not the right environment for every person all the time. While being patient with yourself and taking care of your needs, consider whether you might be open to trying a group session. Depending on your situation, there are an incredible range of benefits that group sessions can give! Here are just a few of the positives to attending a group:
You are not alone.
If you’re looking into therapy, chances are you’re going through it! While you may know logically that there are other people out there struggling with the same thing you are, this can feel unhelpfully abstract. Being in a physical space with your peers that are facing your same challenges can feel incredibly validating, and allow you an outside perspective on your own situation. Social support has been shown to reduce stress, depression, and anxiety. In group therapy, you can find communication, connection, and community; you are not alone!
A cost effective option.
Price is unfortunately a common deterrent for many of us seeking therapy. In a group setting, however, a higher client to psychologist ratio means that group sessions are more affordable than one-on-one therapy. Since groups are typically scheduled for a set number of sessions, there is also a set end date so the overall cost is known ahead of time. Extended health benefits can also be applied to group sessions, just like an individual psychologist visit.
Group sessions are a safe space.
Psychologists that lead group sessions establish a space for you to be vulnerable – confidentially, and without judgement. Therapy is normalized by the presence of others, helping to reduce potential stigma. Many people benefit from emotionally opening up to their peers, a skill that transfers to other interpersonal relationships with time and practice. Group settings offer a variety of personalities, experiences, and perspectives to act as a sounding board. Half of the battle in working through problems is often talking through them out loud! Being able to hear other people’s stories is a gift that will strengthen your community and help you in your personal healing journey. (We listen, we don’t judge!)
Increased Accountability.
Subsequent therapy appointments often require effort outside of the session – to work on yourself, it takes work! Depending on the nature of your concern, your homework may be practicing a boundary, keeping a journal, or working on a habit. Group sessions are no different! When working on a commitment, we are often more motivated to see it through when more people will witness our failure or success. Consistency turns chores into habits, and the accountability of a group setting will help keep you responsible. The rapport you build with other group members will lead to you celebrating their wins, and encouraging them through their setbacks. This is yet one more individual element, with the added benefit of building community and social support.
Group therapy may not be in your current repertoire, but it can make a huge difference at the right time of your life. Challenge your ideas about what mental health support can look like and consider how a group of peers experiencing similar struggles could help you. Working on yourself is always commendable, even without the couch!