Group therapy is a powerful tool in mental health treatment that offers unique benefits compared to individual counseling. By participating in a therapy group that includes a licensed therapist and peers with similar struggles or diagnoses, a person struggling with an illness, addiction, or grief can feel supported, understood, and accepted.
While individual therapy remains the most popular choice for mental health care in the United States, more and more patients and providers are beginning to see the advantages of group therapy for mental health. In our article, we will explain the benefits of joining group therapy, from improved communication skills to long-lasting friendships with people who truly get what you are going through.
Peer Support and Connection
One of the primary benefits of any group therapy program is the opportunity to connect with your peers. Mental illness can feel very isolating—you may feel like no one in your life understands your struggles. But when you join a group of people with similar challenges, you will quickly realize you are not alone.
Building relationships with your peers, sharing your feelings with the group, and leaning on your new friends in times of need can do wonders for your recovery. Studies show that having a support network reduces stress, increases resilience, and lowers the blood pressure of the patient.
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Different Perspectives
When you only talk about your problems with a mental health professional in private therapy, you may miss out on valuable insights from people with life experiences similar to yours. Group therapy introduces you to numerous perspectives on your situation, allowing you to see your problem in a new light.
Oftentimes, we are stuck on finding a solution to our problems because we are incapable of looking at the issue objectively. Your peers may offer you suggestions you would have never considered on your own. In group therapy sessions you will be encouraged to listen to others, reflect on what you have heard, and apply a new way of thinking to your life.
Communication Skills
Whether you struggle with shyness or tend to react with anger when you are upset, group therapy can teach you how to effectively communicate with others. Supported by your therapist and peers, you will learn how to express yourself in a calm manner and listen to others without interrupting them.
Therapy groups are considered a safe space where everyone is welcome to share their feelings without the fear of being judged. Better communication skills you will acquire during group therapy will be helpful in all areas of your life—from building personal relationships to succeeding in your career.
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Participation and Motivation
Group therapy creates a unique dynamic—instead of talking to a therapist one-on-one, you become a part of the group and contribute to the recovery of every participant. You may feel uneasy about opening up to the group at first, but as you get to know your peers, you will feel more comfortable sharing your thoughts.
This unique treatment approach will increase your engagement and motivate you to attend therapy—after all, your presence in the group is important, and your peers will rely on you to show up and support them. Many patients form long-lasting friendships and continue to see their friends after the therapy is over.
Affordability and Accessibility
The cost of mental health treatment remains a huge obstacle for many Americans who need help—in 2023, the average cost of a therapy session is $100-$200. Fortunately, group therapy is usually cheaper than individual therapy, making mental health care more accessible to people on a tight budget.
On average, a session of group therapy costs $50—besides, many healthcare insurance providers cover group therapy. If you are looking for a more affordable option, join a therapy group in your area—check local clinics and support groups to find the therapy that suits you.
FAQs
What is the purpose of group therapy?
The goal of group therapy is to help patients realize they are not alone in their struggles, connect with their peers, and learn from the experiences of other people who are in a similar situation.
What are the advantages of group therapy?
Group therapy will let you build a support network of peers who understand you, enrich your treatment with various perspectives, improve your communication skills, and participate in an affordable therapy session led by a professional therapist.
Is group therapy better than individual therapy?
While group therapy has several unique benefits, it cannot fully replace individual therapy. Ideally, you should participate in both types of therapy to take advantage of a personalized approach and peer support.
Who can benefit from group therapy?
Group therapy can be beneficial for people who suffer from mental health disorders (such as depression or anxiety) and individuals who struggle with substance addiction. Let your therapist know you would like to try group therapy to see if it is right for you.
Is group therapy or individual therapy more cost-effective?
If you are looking for a budget-friendly option, group therapy is a better choice—typically, it costs half as much as a private session with a therapist.
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Embracing Group Therapy
We hope that our guide was able to demonstrate the unique benefits of group therapy for a person’s mental health. From peer support to reduced costs, group therapy can accelerate the recovery of the patient and help them build a valuable support network they can rely on.
Reach out to Addiction Free Recovery to learn more about group therapy and its benefits for mental health. Our certified specialists will be able to advise you and come up with a personalized treatment plan that suits your needs.
