The need to belong is one of our most primitive human drives. We can love nature, our work, hobbies, etc., but they can’t replace satisfying adult relationships. Although our pets give us wonderful unconditional love, they’re not enough.

     There’s good news and bad news. The bad news: there is no reasonable alternative. Relationships are the only game in town. We may as well get used to them. The good news is that relationship skills can be built, a little at a time. It’s like increasing muscle mass or learning to read. And nobody has to do it perfectly.

     If an afternoon in the dentist’s chair holds more appeal than going on a blind date or for a cup of coffee with a neighbor, there is something you can do about it. Group therapy.


How does group therapy work?

     A professional therapist screens and brings together appropriate clients for group work. Groups can be short term and time-limited, or ongoing and open-ended. Most meet weekly and have three-twelve members.

     While process groups have a supportive element, they are primarily insight-oriented. They facilitate self-awareness and introspection, which results in deep change. The primary purpose of a process group is to explore your way of being in relationships. We believe that process groups are the most useful in terms of long-term therapeutic growth and change.


Process Group Therapy: What's in it for Me?

     Process group therapy is an interpersonal learning laboratory. As you share life experiences and bond with each other, your strengths and weaknesses gradually unfold. You are expected to give honest feedback about your feelings and reactions to each other and to admit it when you feel hurt or angry. You get to work through the “life-or-death” concern that speaking truthfully might offend someone. Socially, many of us have been taught that speaking about negative feelings isn’t “nice.” In group therapy, you get to break the rules.

     Others get to break the rules as well. You will be getting feedback from them, which provides a unique opportunity for reality testing. How do you see yourself compared to how others see you?

     Are you experiencing a little anxiety as you read this? Relax. My job is to keep the room safe. I provide guidelines which maintain the safety of the group. For example, you will be encouraged to focus on your feelings, thoughts, and needs while being sensitive to the needs of other members. Attacking, dominating, and telling others what to do are not permitted. Confidentiality is paramount. Gossip outside of meetings destroys the integrity of the group. Unfinished business about the group needs to be brought back to the next session processed directly.

Other Benefits of Group

     Upon entering group, you will find people like you who have similar struggles. This alone provides tremendous relief and hope. You will begin the process of healing and bonding immediately. Being there for other group members will increase your sense of wholeness and well-being. Building social skills will empower you in your relationships.

     Participating in a group is like being a part of a family. A good therapy group becomes a cozy and supportive home where you receive acceptance and understanding. Yu will learn to trust others as you experience this new kind of family. If you are willing to tolerate the discomfort of change, deeper meaning and more intimate relationships will enrich your life.

Support Group Therapy

     There are many kinds of therapy groups. Some are focused on a particular issue such as bereavement or weight management. Members of these groups share a life problem. Members air their frustrations and sustain each other through difficult times. These groups are for people who are not quite sure they wish to commit to an ongoing process group, but need a place to work through specific problems.

Workshops

     Workshops include education and experiential work. We encourage participants to take part as much or as little as they choose. We explain simple therapeutic concepts and invite audience members to ask questions and take a taste of the therapeutic experience. This includes processing when needed, self-disclosure, open discussion and at times, healthy laughter. In these workshops, you can ease your way into speaking up or you can simply observe.

     The workshop is a soft and non-threatening introduction to the culture of therapy.