Group counseling is counseling with multiple individuals facing a similar concern. The strength in group counseling is that if you have 3, 5 or 10 people together all facing the same issue or similar issues, then they can work together.

Group therapy is an effective treatment option that isn’t considered as often as it could be. Here are four reasons it may be right for you:

1. You want to work on how you relate to others.

In a group, members can provide feedback on how they experience you and how what you say makes them feel. This feedback, provided in a safe and supportive environment, can help you better understand yourself and your relationships, allowing you to adjust your behavior in order to be more effective. In a group setting, you benefit from the feedback not just of an individual therapist, but of the entire group. Perhaps you have difficulty asking for what you need, or you have trouble setting boundaries without feeling guilty. Group therapy offers a safe space in which you can try out new ways of relating.

2. You want to get to know people dealing with similar situations.

Meeting other people who are dealing with similar problems can help you realize you’re not alone. Some groups focus on a specific life event, such as a grief and loss support group. Others help people who have a specific mental health diagnosis, such as anxiety or bipolar disorder. Often, people find it helpful to receive not only professional support but to see how others – with different styles and experiences – work through similar problems.

3. You want the experience of telling your story to people who will offer support.

When going through challenging times, it can be important to have others witness and validate your experience. Telling your story to others can be empowering, as you create a narrative in which you effectively navigate adversity and improve your experience.

4. You want to be more motivated to change.

Often, people come to therapy ready to make a change in their lives but not sure exactly how to get themselves to do it. In a group setting, you’ll not only hear of how people have struggled, but also how they’ve overcome challenges in the past. Support and encouragement from group members can serve a cheer leading role, providing positive reinforcement as you actively work toward your goals.

We are currently offering a variety of Social Skills Groups for youth and adults with disabilities. Our social skills group allow individuals to learn with/from each other through role play activities, scenarios, visual aids and discussions. Our innovative and contemporary curriculum includes an array of fundamental topics, which are designed to provide and promote insight and improvement in daily social, personal, and communal skills!