Many approaches to therapy can help people resolve old issues and meet their mental wellness goals. Most people are familiar with individual or one-on-one therapy, but fewer have experienced a group therapy program.
If you’re interested in exploring the dynamics of a group counseling program in Los Angeles, CA, call Illumination Mental Health today at 747.285.7504 for more information.
What Is a Group Therapy Program?
Group therapy is a form of therapy that involves one therapist working with several people at the same time. Group therapy is typically available at hospitals, mental health centers, community centers, and private practice therapists.
There are five main types of group therapy:
1. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy Groups
These groups apply techniques from cognitive-behavioral therapy to identify and change negative thinking patterns and behaviors.
2. Psychoeducational Groups
Education groups focus on teaching guests more about a specific disorder and coping mechanisms for dealing with that disorder. Psychoeducational groups are often formed around a specific mental health issue, such as PTSD or depression.
3. Interpersonal Groups
This type of group focuses on social and interpersonal reactions. Group members are encouraged to consider how interpersonal relationships affect overall mental health.
4. Support Groups
Support groups may or may not be led by a licensed therapist. Many peer-led support groups are formed to benefit people with a variety of mental health issues. Alcoholics Anonymous is one example.
5. Skills Development Groups
The focus of a skills development group is to improve the social skills of people living with developmental disabilities or mental disorders.
Group sizes range from about three to a dozen or more people. They typically meet once or twice a week for sessions that last an hour or two. Sessions may be open—welcoming new participants to join at any time—or closed.
How Group Counseling Fits into Our Mental Health Treatment Programs
Group counseling is not typically used for immediate or crisis-level mental health concerns.
It is, however, a highly effective method for helping individuals who are managing:
- Chronic mental health issues
- Chronic pain
- Stress
It’s also helpful for those experiencing temporary challenges like grief, divorce, or other loss.
To get the most benefit from group therapy, you have to be willing to share with others. The overseeing therapist may facilitate group activities or exercises, such as role-playing, to help the group build trust and create an atmosphere conducive to meaningful exchange.
Sometimes a therapist and resident are not a good fit, and sometimes you may not fit with the first group you try. That doesn’t mean that group therapy won’t work for you. Finding the right group counseling program in Los Angeles, CA, may require looking into different options.
To help the process go more smoothly, think about the kind of group you need. Are you looking more for support or education? Consider what you’re comfortable with and how much you’re willing to examine your own behavior.
What Are the Benefits of a Group Therapy Program in Los Angeles, CA?
The benefits of participating in a group counseling program in Los Angeles, CA, are far-reaching. It is typically more affordable than private therapy, and it allows participants to be both mentors and mentees to one another.
Many guests view their therapy group as a safe place where they can share fears and concerns without judgment.
Illumination Mental Health Is Here for You
If you or someone you care about needs ongoing mental health support from a group therapy center in Los Angeles, call Illumination Mental Health today at 747.285.7504.
Our fully trained and licensed therapists are experienced in facilitating a group therapy program in Los Angeles, CA, that benefits a variety of people. A group counseling program is an affordable and effective way to learn new coping skills to meet your mental wellness goals.
