Therapy groups offer a unique space for connection, support, and growth. However, it is common to have doubts about whether a group will be helpful.
Common Concerns about Group Therapy
Meeting new people can be challenging in itself, and talking about personal concerns with strangers can feel even more difficult. It is common to feel anxious about being vulnerable in front of others. Many people have less anxiety about group after just a couple of sessions, and you can choose when and how much to share (or not!) as you try it out.
It can also be difficult not knowing what to expect. Most group facilitators offer an initial phone call or session to discuss what to expect in the group, including whether there are a set number of sessions or if it is ongoing, and whether it is “open” or “closed” to new members (for more on what to expect and questions to ask, see here!).
Potential benefits to Group Therapy
Group therapy can offer unique benefits as compared to individual therapy. For example, therapy with others who may be struggling with similar experiences (e.g., anxiety or depression) and/or with similar experiences (e.g., death/loss, trauma) can help you feel less alone in your struggles.
In addition, other group members can provide a variety of perspectives and insights. After attending group therapy, many people feel more connected and empathic to others, and often feel more validated about their own emotions and reactions.
Another consideration is cost; group therapy is often be affordable than individual therapy, with sessions typically being less than half of an individual session.
Is Group Therapy Effective?
Numerous research studies show that group therapy can be effective at reducing distress and improving well-being. There are also several different types of groups that can be designed for different needs and preferences. For example, some groups are time limited and focused on learning and building skills and strategies to help with specific goals. Others may be ongoing, at times to provide support for individuals struggling with specific issues or situations. Still others may be designed to help group members learn insights about how they relate to other people and better understand their relationships. Group therapy can be most effective when your goals are aligned with the goals of the group.
Interested in Learning More About Group Therapy?
We at TREC DC are planning to provide new groups this fall and into 2026. We want to offer groups that match with the interest of those interested to help the groups be most effective. To help us know what groups to offer, please complete this google form to let us know what you might be interested in as well as preferences you may have. Completing this form does not obligate you to participate, and your information will be kept confidential to TREC DC.
Once we have enough individuals interested in a particular type of group, we will contact you about finding a shared date and time to begin, as well as offer an initial consultation with the group facilitator to see if the group is something you want to give a try.
You may also reach out to us by email to ask any questions you have about group therapy or other resources. Thank you in advance for helping us to create effective group therapy options and other resources to serve you and our community!
