Psychotherapy is a working partnership between a therapist and a client. Time is spent remembering events in the past and trying to understand how they connect with what is going on in
the present. The therapist listens, asks questions, often offers support and encouragement for the expression of feelings. A quote from A General Theory of Love, written by three psychotherapists:
- (Psychotherapy) impels participation in a process that our modern world has all but forgotten: sitting in a room with another person... with no purpose in mind but attending.
As you do so, another world expands and comes alive to your senses--a world governed by forces that were old before humanity
began. pg.65
About Group Psychotherapy
In a group, common themes often emerge out of discussions. For instance, a discussion might emerge where everyone speaks about their relationship with their parents or feelings of
competitiveness at work. Within each group meeting, participants have many opportunities to speak out as well as to listen to others. In the process, people often make important discoveries about
themselves, their relationships, their own feelings and behaviors, and their individual past histories. The more members participate in the group, the more they get out of it.
From the American Group Psychotherapy Association:
Group psychotherapy is a special form of therapy in which a small number of people meet together under the guidance of a professionally trained therapist to help themselves and one
another. The therapy has been widely used and has been a standard treatment option for over fifty years...
In studies comparing group psychotherapy to individual therapy, group therapy has been
shown to be as effective and sometimes even more effective. In cases of medical illness, there is substantial evidence that this form of therapy helps people cope better with their
illness, enhances the quality of their lives and, in some cases, such as breast cancer, has even been shown to help people live
longer.
The Role of the Group Psychotherapist
In a group setting, the psychotherapist makes every effort to create a sense of safety for all
group participants. The psychotherapist might ask questions or point out patterns that are emerging for group members. The psychotherapist provides valuable information and counseling skills to help
participants through difficult feelings.
Group
Works