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.