In episode 49: Juvenile Justice & Suicide, Part I and episode 50: Juvenile Justice & Suicide, Part II, we discuss group therapy as a form of treatment for incarcerated youth. Our guest, Dr. Leah Saulter describes some of the topics that come up in this group therapy format. For example, participants are required to discuss the negative impact of their crimes on the victims. Dr. Saulter describes these moments as some of the most powerful tools to helping these individuals really see “their victims.” Group treatments are a highly effective tool used in many different therapeutic spaces, such as hospitals, substance use treatment programs, schools, bereavement programs, etc. Despite this fact, clients often fear that a group therapy approach is somehow inferior to individual care. Let’s discuss the many reasons why group therapy is a beneficial tool.
Advantages of Group Therapy
One of the most obvious benefits of Group Therapy is that it allows one practitioner to be able to serve many individuals. This is hugely important in environments where the need for therapy is great, but there are not enough resources or money for individual care. However, while cost benefit is one of the advantages, the chance for those who are struggling to meet and be accountable to other people who are also struggling is vitally important. There is nothing like the feeling of realizing that you are not alone. It is one thing to tell yourself that you are not the first person to go through a divorce, have a substance use problem, or suffer from depression, it is even more valuable to hear that someone else has had similar challenges.
Sometimes clients discount the opinion of a therapist because “What do they really understand about my situation?” It is harder to disregard the experience of someone who has walked in similar shoes. In a group of peers, you get examples of people who are coping effectively, as well as examples of what not to do. Both types of models can be instructive. Additionally, fellow group members aren’t trying to maintain an alliance with you. There is a level of honestly that cuts to the heart of the matter. Usually, the feedback from other group members is one of the most helpful aspects of this method.
What about confidentiality?
Some people dislike the idea of being in group therapy because they are reluctant to share their personal stories. This is often related to shame, fear of being judged, and the stigma of having problems. However, group spaces often have the opposite effect. Instead of judgement, you often find acceptance. Instead of shame, you find people who are looking for redemption. Sharing openly in a group setting reduces stigma and reminds you that we all struggle. Additionally, participants in group therapy are often bound by the rule of talking only about one’s own experience in group. Group members typically adhere to this rule since they are all equally vulnerable.
Types of group therapy
There are many forms and types of group therapy just as there are with individual approaches. Some groups are highly structured. In these groups each session there is an agenda to be addressed. The therapist may introduce the topic and combine teachable moments along with discussion time. Many of these groups can be described as psychoeducational, offering guidance around a specific theme (e.g., assertiveness). Other groups are much less structured with more general goals such as improved happiness or lessened stress. These less structured groups are usually facilitated by therapists who are especially focused on human communication patterns.
Is group therapy effective?
Yes! Group therapy is equally effective to individual therapy. Some models even show group methods yield superior outcomes.
- Just as effective.
- Less expensive.
- Greater sense of connection
- Various formats
In Conclusion…
Group therapy is a common alternative to individual therapy. Participating in group therapy requires members to more directly deal with the stigma of having psychological concerns. Group therapy is not only less expensive than individual sessions, it is frequently more effective.