I have talked quite a bit on my blog about the benefits of individual therapy, but I wanted to touch on all the benefits of group therapy. The approach in group therapy is different but still leads to self discovery. Amongst a group of peers often times deeper self discovery occurs along with life long bonds made with fellow group members.
You may wonder though how you know if group therapy is for you or if you should lean towards individual therapy. Here are some tips for you:
1. Individual therapy is best if you have recently had a trauma or death, an alcohol/drug dependence diagnosis, or if you have had a severe depressive episode. Especially if you have never sought treatment for any of these concerns it is often best to first receive individual therapy and then transition into group therapy.
2. Group therapy may be a better option for you if you are feeling isolated, alone with your feelings or unable to talk to anyone. I often hear from my clients that their friends/family are "tried of hearing about their problems" and they have no one to talk to. Just knowing you aren't alone and others are in similar situations can be very beneficial and lead to group exploration.
3. Working with a group can be a great option for you also if you feel stunted in your current individual therapeutic relationship. Often times individual therapy can only take you so far and then group work can take it further. When people come into a group setting and interact freely with other group members, they often will recreate the difficulties that brought them into therapy to begin with.
4. Group therapy offers you more than one opinion. You will get immediate feedback from not only the therapist but the other group members. You also get the experience of seeing others work through their own problems while you work on yours, often drawing from their experience.
5. If you feel especially hesitant about group work then start off with individual therapy to lay a foundation and start self exploration. Many therapist offer both individual and group therapy, feel free to inquire about your options when you contact a therapist.
On a final note, some individuals worry about the confidentiality of group work. Upon the commencement of the group everyone signs a confidentiality agreement. What is discussed in the group stays within group members only. When each group member shares freely, everyone has their own need and respect for confidentiality.
If you live in the Central Valley and are interested in group or individual therapy please feel free to contact me.
