About Group Therapy

As the rates of divisiveness and isolation increase in our culture and day-to-day lives, group therapy offers an alternative through connection. In a relational process group, members join together to explore, experience and share their thoughts and feelings in the here-and-now. While different from individual or couple therapy, group work can be powerful and equally effective.

Who may Benefit from Group Work?

Group is for anyone wanting to increase their connection and closeness in relationship with others—colleagues, friends, family members, lovers… and ultimately, themselves. Group is also for people who may perceive their struggles as non-relational—those wrestling with depression, anxiety, behavioral or existential concerns. It is also a highly effective modality for those who have been in individual therapy and wish to explore different avenues of change and growth, and new ways of relating to others. 

Studies show that working in a present-moment, relationally oriented group is a powerful way to access one’s authenticity. This journey can lead to self-realization, self-actualization and a sense of personal liberation.

What is Group Like?

The essence of each particular group is unique and evolves organically, shifting and emerging according to the hearts and minds of the members. For this to unfold, group members must work to build trust and courage together. The therapist’s role is to encourage this natural unfolding through support, curiosity, and challenge.

Group members are encouraged to share their feelings, fantasies, and impulses as they arise in the present moment. As the safety of the harbor increases, members share more about themselves—their goals, hopes and dreams, and their fears, sorrows and stuck places. 

By offering and accepting non-judgmental feedback and support, we find the courage to explore, understand, and gently dismantle the obstacles and unproductive patterns of coping that, although once useful in dealing with painful life events or childhood relationships, may now be keeping us from enjoying a more fulfilling life.

You can read about the intake process and tentative group guidelines here (pdf).

Does it Work?

Yes! There is ample research evidence to support that in many to most cases, group therapy is just as effective is individual therapy. Group therapy is an evidenced based modality for depression, anxiety, trauma, problems in relationships, and is a time-tested method for self-exploration and personal growth. It is also more cost effective for members.