Group psychotherapy is a special type of psychotherapy in
which 6-10 people meet together each week with the guidance of the
leader. The aim is to resolve emotional difficulties and work toward
personal growth. The therapist selects people who are likely to benefit
from this type of therapy and can contribute to the group process and
its success for all members. Support and personal growth are the major
components of the group experience.
The idea behind group therapy is
that the group provides a microcosm of the real world and real
relationships. Within the group, with its safety and clarity of
purpose, members learn how they are viewed by others and can try out
more satisfying ways to interact and develop personal closeness. The
leader’s role, i.e., my job, is to facilitate growth for all the
members and to ensure that everyone experiences safety. I am an active
group leader and take responsibility for the group’s success.
Groups are valuable environment for
learning new ways to be in
relationships. They provide the optimal therapy situation for people
who have difficulty establishing satisfying relationships. Common
relationship problems are fear of intimacy, inability or difficulty
trusting others, and trouble with anger, either being too-quick to
express it or unable to communicate anger verbally and
directly.
People often do not know how to resolve conflict in relationships and
as a result avoid conflict and miss opportunities for intimacy,
closeness, and commitment.
People start to feel less alone and more
connected. More satisfying relationships are a typical outcome.
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| jcsimon@judithsimon.com