Group therapy involves one or more counsellors who lead a group of roughly five to 15 patients. Typically, groups meet for an hour or two each week. Some people attend individual therapy in addition to groups, while others participate in groups only.

Many groups are designed to target a specific problem, such as depression, obesity, panic disorder, social anxiety, chronic pain, or substance abuse. Other groups focus more generally on improving social skills, helping people deal with a range of issues such as anger, shyness, loneliness, and low self-esteem. Groups often help those who have experienced loss, whether it be a spouse, a child, or someone who died by suicide.

Benefits of Group Therapy 

Groups provide support. Hearing from others with similar issues helps you see that you’re not alone in having challenges, whether you’re grappling with panic attacks, depression, or another mental health issue. Many people experience a sense of relief. 

Groups provide a sounding board. If, for example, you talk about a fight you had with your partner, group members can see things in the way you present it that you don’t. Hearing from other people about how you come across can be very powerful. You can get a wider range of perspectives on your situation, and that can help you deal with your problems better.

Groups can propel you forward. Hearing how other members successfully overcame their fear of flying or how they confronted a family member over drug abuse can be very encouraging. Patients often push themselves harder when they see what others are doing.

Groups promote social skills. “Groups not only help to ease that sense of isolation but also give the opportunity to practice re-engaging with people. By participating in a group, you see that you can get along with others. 

Group therapy costs less than individual counseling. Some people believe that, because group therapy costs less, it’s not as good, but that’s not the case at all. Group therapy can be incredibly powerful.

Groups teach you about yourself. Every person in the group holds up a mirror and you get to see yourself through their eyes.. It’s a way of uncovering the blind spots that may be blocking your ability to overcome your issues.

Samaritans Counselling Centre is able to organise group counselling for a group of individuals or private institutions as per needs basis.