A therapy group will usually consist of 5-10 members. There are open, on-going groups (meaning there is not a set number of sessions for the group and as members “graduate” from group, other new members can be added as appropriate) and closed groups (meaning once the group starts, new members cannot be added, and they may run for a certain length of time, say twelve sessions).

Group therapy has a long, proven record as a highly effective and useful form of therapy.

Group therapy offers an opportunity to:

• Receive and offer support and feedback

• Improve interpersonal relationships and communication

• Experiment with new interpersonal behaviors

• Talk honestly and directly about feelings

• Gain insight and understanding into one’s own thoughts, feelings, and behaviors by looking at relationship patterns both inside and outside the group

• Gain understanding of other people’s thoughts, feelings and behaviors

• Improve self-confidence, self-image and self-esteem

• Undergo personal change inside the group with the expectation of carrying that learning over into one’s outside life

The group adheres to the same rules of confidentiality as all other forms of therapy. Participants are encouraged to share about any personal or relationship issues relevant to their therapy goals, and members should choose to disclose information at their own pace.

Group therapy can be a wonderfully rich and dynamic therapeutic experience, but this often does not happen right away. It often takes a while for the group to build trust and develop into a safe place for members to explore their interpersonal issues. For this reason, it is important to make a commitment to attend and participate in at least 8 to 10 sessions in order to have a clearer sense of the helpfulness of the group. Group therapy works most effectively if it is cohesive, reliable, and predictable. Regular attendance and active participation is a key part of that and shows respect not only for your therapeutic work, but for that of your group members as well.