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How do group therapy sessions in clinical psychology and psychotherapy differ from group support groups in terms of structure and goals?

Viridiana MacDaid

Well hello there fellow social media enthusiasts! Today we’re going to talk about something super interesting: the difference between group therapy sessions in clinical psychology and psychotherapy, and group support groups! Yeah, yeah, I know what you’re thinking - “wow, this sounds incredibly exciting and exhilarating, I can’t wait to read more!” Well hold onto your hats, because this is going to be a wild ride.

Okay, let’s start with the basics. So, what even is group therapy? Picture this: a bunch of people, all sitting in a circle, discussing their deepest, darkest, and most personal problems. Sounds a little intimidating, right? Well don’t be scared just yet, because group therapy can actually be a really effective way to work through mental health issues.

In terms of structure, group therapy sessions are usually led by a trained mental health professional. The group may be made up of people with similar issues, such as depression or anxiety, or a more diverse group with various mental health concerns. The sessions typically run for a set amount of time, such as 12 weeks, and can involve a mix of individual and group activities.

So, what are the goals of group therapy? Well, it can vary depending on the group and the individuals involved, but generally the aim is to provide a safe and supportive space for people to share their experiences and learn from one another. By discussing their problems in a group setting, individuals can gain a sense of validation and community, as well as learn new coping strategies and problem-solving techniques.

Alright, now let’s switch gears and talk about support groups. Unlike group therapy, support groups are often led by peers rather than mental health professionals. These groups can be centered around specific issues, such as grief or addiction, or be more broad in scope. The goal of support groups is to provide a non-judgmental space for individuals to share their experiences and offer one another emotional support.

In terms of structure, support groups can be less formal than group therapy sessions. They may meet on a regular basis, but there may not be a set agenda or activities planned for each meeting. It’s more of an open forum for group members to discuss whatever issues they are currently facing.

So, what’s the difference then? Well, the main distinction between group therapy and support groups is the level of professional guidance and the degree of focus on individual change. Group therapy sessions are led by trained mental health professionals, who can offer guidance and expertise in helping individuals work through their issues. In support groups, the emphasis is on peer support and community, rather than on individual change or improvement.

Both group therapy and support groups can be valuable resources for individuals struggling with mental health issues. The decision to join one or the other, or both, will largely depend on individual needs and preferences. Whatever you choose, remember that you are not alone and there is always help available. And with that, I’ll leave you with this sage advice: stay curious, keep exploring, and never stop learning!