For most psychological issues, groups can be just as effective as individual counseling sessions. One of the biggest advantages of group therapy is the community support that participants provide to each other. During group participation, members can experience that they are not alone in facing certain problems, which can strengthen the feeling of social support. This is particularly important for those who tend to isolate themselves or feel that no one understands them. Moreover, in group therapy, members can benefit not only from the therapist's feedback but also learn from the experiences of other participants. Discovering different perspectives can help them see a particular problem from another viewpoint, which can lead to new solution strategies.

What happens in a group therapy session?
Group therapy sessions are generally structured to ensure that everyone has the appropriate space for sharing and development. Most sessions start with a short check-in, providing an opportunity for group members to briefly share how they are currently feeling or if something important has happened since the last session.
Afterwards, the group might focus on a preset topic or reflect on issues brought by the participants. The psychologist helps guide the conversation and ensures that everyone receives adequate time and attention. Trust and respect are crucial elements of group therapy – every participant has the opportunity to express themselves while respecting the feelings and perspectives of others.

What issues is it recommended for?
Group therapy can be effective in treating a number of mental health issues. It is particularly useful in cases where the problems also affect social relationships. Therefore, group therapy is often recommended for anxiety disorders, depression, self-esteem issues, communication, assertiveness, or relationship difficulties. Common group themes may include a well-defined, specific life situation, such as grief or inability to lose weight, as well as an issue related to a particular life stage, such as adolescence. It can be especially beneficial for those who feel lonely or have difficulty establishing social connections. Participation in the group can help develop social skills and boost self-confidence since the group provides a safe environment for experimenting and growing.

How to participate in group therapy?
Participating in group therapy requires adhering to certain rules to create a bsafe and supportive environment for everyone. The most important of these is discretion, meaning confidentiality: what is shared in the group stays in the group. This is essential for participants to speak honestly about their experiences without fearing that the information will leak. Additionally, honesty is also a fundamental requirement: members should strive to openly and honestly share their feelings and experiences. At the same time, it's important that everyone in the group listens carefully to others and respects differing viewpoints.

In summary, group therapy can have positive outcomes that individual processes cannot achieve. In groups, multiple perspectives emerge, and through the honest feedback of our peers, we can gain a much clearer picture of ourselves and our issues, while increasing our level of self-acceptance. It also provides a good opportunity to experience a sense of belonging, as you can build human connections in the group that will accompany you for a lifetime.