What is Group Therapy?
Group therapy is an effective form of treatment where approximately 4-9 students meet under the guidance of one to two trained group therapists once a week for about 90 minutes. Most groups will meet for the entire semester. Groups vary in their focus and approach but share the goal of creating a safe and supportive space for members to increase self-awareness, learn new skills, and receive support.
How can group therapy help me?
Unlike individual therapy, group therapy provides an opportunity to learn with and from other peers. In a group setting, you will receive direct feedback on patterns of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that may be contributing to your concerns. You will practice how to manage these concerns differently in the group, which can lead to improvement outside of group as well. Finally, hearing that others are struggling in similar ways can help you to feel less different from others and less alone.
What are some common misconceptions about group therapy?
- "Group therapy is not as good as individual therapy." Individual and group therapy have different benefits and help people in different ways. Research has consistently shown that group therapy is as effective as individual therapy. In fact, group therapy offers several important advantages over individual therapy. Individuals will obtain support, learn how to relate to others, experience a sense of belonging, and recognize they are not alone.
- "I'm too anxious. I'll never be able to share in group." Almost everyone is anxious about sharing in a group. Most people find that after one to two sessions they want to share in the group. As people see that others have similar difficulties, they begin to experience a sense of safety and trust.
- "I'll be forced to talk when I'm not ready." People are encouraged but never forced to share anything they are not ready to share. You are in control of what to share and when. Most people find that listening to others is helpful as you apply their situations to your own life.
- Hearing other peoples' problems will overwhelm me." It's understandable that entering a group setting can feel overwhelming. However, many people in group express a great sense of relief knowing that others struggle with similar concerns. It's helpful to know that you"re not alone and not so different.
What is expected of me as a group member?
- Confidentiality. The group therapists are legally and ethically bound to not disclose the content of group meetings. Group members are expected to respect the confidentiality of the group. Group members are asked to sign a group agreement committing to not sharing the information of other group members outside of the group. Although the group therapist(s) cannot guarantee other members will respect confidentiality, members are often respectful of each other's privacy.
- Attendance. Group members are expected to attend group each week, be on time, and stay for the entirety of the group. Attending a minimum of 3 group sessions is strongly encouraged to determine if the group will be helpful to you.
- Participation. Each group member will determine how much they would like to disclose in the group. You will make the most progress if you share your true reactions and feeling with others. However, no one will ever be forced to disclose information they are not comfortable sharing.
- Member Relationships. Group members are asked to not interact with each other outside of the group time. If this interaction does happen, group members are asked to disclose this to the group. This is done to prevent unhelpful group dynamics (e.g., cliques forming), maintain confidentiality, and ensure group members can maintain appropriate boundaries (i.e., not feel pressured to provide support outside of the scheduled group time).
What happens if I join a group and do not feel like the group is a good fit for me?
It is normal to experience some uncertainty about continuing in a group. The most important step is to first speak with your group therapist(s) about your experiences. The therapist(s) will work with you to understand your experiences and develop strategies to ensure the group is helpful to you. Many people find this conversation improves the helpfulness of the group. However, if the group still does not feel helpful, the group therapist(s) will work with you to connect you with services that best match your needs.
How do I join a group?
You must be referred by a CAPS therapist to join a group. You will be scheduled for a 30-minute group screening with the group therapist(s). The group screening provides an opportunity for you to meet the therapist(s), learn more about the group, ask questions, discuss your goals and concerns, and ensure the group is a good fit for you.
