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Group Therapy For Personal Growth And Development

By Rosella Campbell


Engaging in counseling with other members who have gone through similar struggles creates an atmosphere of cohesiveness. Group therapy not only allows Individuals to experience personal growth through self exploration, but to also learning about the experiences of others can aid in recovery. Additionally, because guilt and shame are common feelings, talking with others alleviates some of these feelings and helps the person to feel normal and safe in sharing their experiences and struggles.

Hearing the stories of others can often help individuals understand themselves better. This is why groups can be very meaningful ways to help individuals cope with their circumstances. Although members may join at different stages of personal contentment, each stage can offer support to another. A person who has just experienced the loss of a loved one may be able to feel hope after hearing how another member has coped with their loss.

Groups should consist of between six to twelve individuals. Often the size depends on the topic. More intense topics, such as anger, may be more useful with a smaller number. Regardless of whether groups consist of six or twelve people, they are more productive than larger groups because they provide an atmosphere of intimacy where every member can have a chance to speak. Many times individuals may come to discuss divorce, death or loss, or another topic.

Therapists act as a facilitator and are not there to provide any personal stories or advice. Instead, much like individual counseling, the therapist acts a guide. Counselors will often challenge the group or individual members to think about consequences of their choices. Likewise, the counselor will ensure that members stay on topic and that no one member is monopolizing conversation.

Establishing an atmosphere of trust with each member of the group is extremely important. The facilitator's role is to create an atmosphere that is safe and welcoming to share intimate details about ones experiences. One key component of running a successful group is to stress the importance of confidentiality. Each member must agree to keep everything that is said in session confidential and not share with anyone outside of the people who are in session. Breaking this rule often results in immediate dismissal.

Therapists are trained in the profession of counseling and often hold a masters degree or higher. Within their education, counselors come to understand human behavior, thought patterns and obstacles to success. They are trained in the art of talk therapy and use various tools that will challenge strong willed individuals who cannot see how their behaviors or thoughts are effecting their happiness.

Facilitating a counseling group and counseling an individual require different sets of skills. While counseling an individual, the therapist must be able to challenge behaviors and be present in their clients unique struggles. In a group setting the counselor must be able to maintain cohesion throughout the members and be sure not to focus on any one person. Likewise, the therapist must be aware of any behaviors that are exhibited in the session that threaten the willingness of other members to engage.

To find this type of therapy, individuals can look in many locations, including Tulsa, OK. To be successful, individuals must be able to divulge details about their experiences and struggles. Members should also have an open mind to take insight from other members.




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