Group therapy is a psychotherapy in which therapists follow a collaborative approach to treat patients suffering from psychological disorders. This therapy has proven to help patients suffering from compulsive disorders, phobias, eating disorders, substance abuse, and marital issues. Along with how group therapy works, read on to learn more about various types of group therapy, group therapy techniques, and various benefits of group therapy.
What is group therapy?
Group therapy is a form of psychotherapy in which one or more than one mental health expert guides multiple patients who are suffering from mental health disorders. A supportive environment is created to share experiences and solve problems in one go. Group therapy can be combined with individual therapy sessions for a complete recovery.
What kind of mental health issues does group therapy treat?
Group therapy is an effective treatment for patients who are suffering from specific psychological issues like depression, panic disorders, issues related to anxiety, chronic pain, substance abuse, and health problems like obesity. General behavioural issues like shyness, anger, and so on that impair a person’s ability to adjust in society are also addressed in such groups.
Types of Group Therapy
5 main types of group therapies that can be administered according to the condition of mental health are:
1. Cognitive Behavioural Groups
This group therapy works on identifying negative thought patterns and changing them accordingly. The aim is to alter emotional responses and behaviours so that the patients can manage triggers independently.
2. Interpersonal Groups
This group therapy works towards improving social interactions that deteriorated because of disorders a person was suffering from. Interpersonal relationships between people are worked upon.
3. Psychoeducational Groups
Psychoeducational group therapy collectively educates patients about the disorders they are suffering from. The aim is to sensitise them about their situation and help them in coping with circumstances.
4. Skill Development Groups
Certain psychological disorders compromise the skills of patients or are caused because of improper development of cognitive abilities.
5. Support Groups
This group therapy involves a bunch of people who share common concerns and experiences. This therapy aims to bring people together for comfort and encouragement and to create a positive mindset.
Group Therapy Techniques
1. Icebreaker Activities
This technique includes introductory exercises that help group members feel comfortable. Since not everyone is an extrovert willing to share details about his or her disorder, a rapport is established with this technique.
2. Gratitude-Based Exercises
Patients are encouraged to map out those aspects of their lives for which they are thankful. The aim is to make patients count their blessings and take the suffering in their stride.
3. Question-Answer Sessions
This technique promotes openness among group members. The aim is to train patients to deal with various situations and share personal experiences.
4. Expressive Writing
For people who are not good at vocalising their issues, expressive writing allows them to express their emotions in writing. Creating outlets like sketching, writing, storytelling, etc. can be exploited.
5. Team-Building Exercises
Collaborative exercises enable an individual to learn to build trust and believe in human relationships. The aim is to strengthen cohesion among individuals.
6. Feedback Sessions
This session allows patients to reflect on their progress and share insights. Positive feedback shared among members promotes personal growth.
7. Psychoeducational Sessions
Psychoeducational sessions educate the group members about relapse, coping mechanisms, and managing triggers. Life skills are improved through discussions and workshops.
Benefits of Group Therapy
1. Improvement in social skills is one of the biggest benefits of group therapy. Patients relearn their compromised skills and have proven to readjust to society better.
2. Support and encouragement in the group make a patient feel less lonely. People with anxiety, depression, divorce, grief, and loss come together to share their hardships.
3. Group therapy is usually an economical psychological treatment. Since people with similar problems are brought together, therapists usually charge less than usual.
4. Group therapy sessions are informative as members exchange their ideas and problems. Causes of stress, pain, anger, obsessions, and panic are discussed openly, removing the taboo associated with each issue.
How Does Group Therapy Work?
Conducted by Mental Health Experts: Forming
Always consult your therapist before entering any group. He or she must recommend the group according to your mental condition. Every group session is conducted by a professional psychologist, as multiple patients have to be attended to. He or she ensures that the confidence of members stays strong and the conversations go in the right direction.
Introduction to the Group: Storming
Mental health professionals give each patient a chance to introduce himself or herself. The therapist is aware of every patient’s problem, and conflicts often arise among group members. Therefore, patients who are concerned about their privacy and the severity of problems are introduced accordingly. Patients who are on their path to recovery are encouraged to share more.
Open and Honest Communication: Norming
Open and honest communication is encouraged for better collaboration and cohesion among members. The aim is to foster mutual learning and remove the taboo associated with mental health disorders. Patients are advised to not conceal details that could be important to others.
Self-Discovery: Performing
At this stage, patients actively engage in conversations. They discover themselves and achieve therapeutic goals by accepting the disorder like any other health problem. At certain times, group therapy sessions are not enough and need to be accompanied by medication and therapy.
Adjourning is the last stage of the treatment wherein members appreciate each other's progress.