There are many different types of group therapy: individuals, couples and families may all meet as groups. Groups can provide both confrontation and support in a way that is different from individual therapy. Therapists differ in the ways they conduct groups, and if you are thinking of joining a group, a therapist will meet with you individually first to discuss whether the group will be helpful to you. Click here to see if any Guild therapists are offering groups in your area.
Sometimes groups will focus on a particular type of problem (e.g., phobias) or may be for a particular category of people (e.g., men). In general, groups explore difficulties people experience in interpersonal situations. This may mean focusing on relationships with friends, family, or lovers, or even co-workers and supervisors. In a group, you get feedback from other members as well as the therapist. A group can provide you with support as well as a chance to reflect on patterns of interaction as they emerge with other group members. The group is also a social situation in which you can experiment with new patterns of interaction, and get feedback from others about how you come across to them. All groups try to lessen members’ sense of isolation and enhance relationships and functioning.