The thought of group therapy can be a frightening idea, of “airing your dirty laundry in front of strangers.” When a new group is formed, the first couple of sessions are awkward and members have a tendency to hold back from disclosure and vulnerability. But soon one discovers a sense of togetherness, that other members of the group share the same struggles and challenges as you. When this occurs, a sense of unity and support begins to develop and it becomes easier to participate.
A persuasive body of research has demonstrated that group therapy is highly effective and can provide meaningful benefits. The support and feedback of peers is as, or even more, valuable than that of the therapist. Relationships are at the core of human experience and group therapy allows participants to address individual issues in the context of an interpersonal setting. There is no human deed or thought that lies fully outside the experience of other people. For example, it can be quite a revelation to realize that almost everyone feels a deep sense of inadequacy and interpersonal alienation.
This interpersonal and relational focus is the strength of group therapy. Psychological symptoms emanate, in large part, from disturbed interpersonal relationships. The goal of therapy is to work together on developing gratifying and healthy relationships.
Therapy and support groups may include:
- Couples group therapy
- Porn addiction groups
- Sex addiction groups
- Drug and alcohol groups
- Spouse of drug and alcohol addiction support group
- Straight spouse with gay husband support group
- Spouse of porn addicts support group
- Non-specialized groups
- Social phobia and general anxiety group
