Group Therapy: Definition, Types, Techniques, and Efficacy

Group therapy is a form of psychotherapy involving one or more therapists working simultaneously with several individuals. It is widely available at various locations, including private therapeutic practices, hospitals, mental health clinics, and community centers.

Group therapy can be used alone or integrated into a comprehensive treatment plan that also includes individual therapy.

Types of Group Therapy:

Group therapy can be categorized into different types based on the mental health condition being treated and the clinical method used. Common types include:

1. Cognitive Behavioral Groups: Focus on identifying and changing inaccurate or distorted thinking patterns, emotional responses, and behaviors.

2. Interpersonal Groups: Center on interpersonal relationships and social interactions, examining the level of support from others and how these relationships impact mental health.

3. Psychoeducational Groups: Aim to educate clients about their disorders and coping strategies, often based on principles of cognitive behavior therapy (CBT).

4. Skills Development Groups: Focus on improving social skills in individuals with mental disorders or developmental disabilities.

5. Support Groups: Provide a wide range of benefits for individuals with various mental health conditions and their loved ones.

Group size can vary from 3-4 members to 8-12 members, with sessions typically held once or twice a week for an hour or two. Sessions can be open, allowing new participants anytime, or closed, inviting only a core group of members.

Group Therapy Techniques:

Group therapy sessions often involve participants sitting in a circle to facilitate visibility among all members. Sessions may begin with introductions and sharing of experiences since the last meeting. The specific approach and activities depend on the group's goals and the therapist's style.

Some therapists encourage free-form dialogue, while others may have a structured plan for each session, including practicing new skills with other group members.

Common group therapy activities include icebreaker activities, gratitude exercises, sharing activities, expressive writing, and goal visualization activities.

What Group Therapy Can Help With:

Group therapy is effective in treating various conditions, including:

• Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• Depression
• Eating disorders
• Generalized anxiety disorder
• Panic disorder
• Phobias
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Substance use disorder

Beyond mental health conditions, CBT-based group therapy has shown promise in helping individuals cope with:

• Anger management
• Chronic pain
• Chronic illness
• Chronic stress
• Divorce
• Domestic violence
• Grief and loss
• Weight management

Benefits of Group Therapy:

1. Support, Safety, and Encouragement: Participants receive support and encouragement from other group members, reducing feelings of isolation and providing a safe environment to practice new behaviors.

2. Role Modeling: Observing others' successful coping strategies can instill hope for recovery and foster feelings of accomplishment as individuals progress.

3. Insight on Social Skills: Therapists can observe social interactions and provide valuable feedback, helping members improve their social skills.

4. Affordability: Group therapy is often more affordable than individual therapy, as the therapist's time is divided among a larger group, reducing the cost per participant.

Effectiveness of Group Therapy:

Group therapy has proven effective in treating depression. Studies suggest that around 44% of individuals with depression experience significant improvements after group cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). However, dropout rates can be high, with about 20% of patients quitting treatment.

Group therapy also meets efficacy standards for conditions such as panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and social phobia.

Is Group Therapy for You?

Consider the following factors when considering group therapy:

1. Willingness to Share: Individuals uncomfortable sharing their experiences in a group setting may find it challenging.

2. Need for Multiple Group Trials: Finding the right group fit may require trying several groups to determine the most comfortable and suitable one.

3. Not Suitable for Crisis: Group therapy is not recommended for individuals in crisis or experiencing suicidal thoughts; individual therapy is a better option in such cases.

How to Get Started:

1. Consult a Physician: Seek a physician's recommendation for the best type of group therapy based on your condition.

2. Consider Personal Preferences: Decide whether an open or closed group therapy session suits you better, and explore the option of online group therapy.

3. Contact Health Insurance: Check with your health insurance provider to determine coverage and the number of sessions covered per year.

4. Open or Closed Group: Determine whether an open or closed group is more suitable for your needs, considering factors such as waiting periods for closed groups.

5. Additional Assistance: Evaluate the need for additional support in the form of individual therapy or medication, in addition to group therapy, to address your specific requirements.