Group Therapy
We believe in the power of relationships.
Sometimes, it’s easy to think we are the only ones facing such hardship in our journey. We tend to assume the grass is always greener on the other side, without knowing what’s going on behind the scenes in other people’s lives.
Perhaps we are struggling with deep wounds from the past that are still sparking ongoing problems. We might have suffered a tremendous loss, unsure about how to find ways to grieve. Or maybe we are getting so caught up in intricate anxiety spirals that we can’t see a way out.
Distress and overwhelming emotions may fill our work, home, and social activities, so much so that we may want to give up. So, we clam up, withdraw from others, and start losing pieces of ourselves along the way.
Life’s challenges might strip you from confidence and hope, but it doesn’t have to be that way.
Group therapy leverages the power of community care to help you see that you are not alone in your pain. This effective treatment provides a chance to share space, learn, and grow among those going through similar hurdles.
At Sequoia Psychology Associates, we offer various group alternatives, including trauma, pregnancy loss, and social anxiety groups to support your healing. We serve adults in Redwood City, California, and its nearby areas—San Carlos, Belmont, San Mateo, Foster City, Burlingame, Menlo Park, Palo Alto, Mountain View, Sunnyvale, and Los Altos.
Just as a sequoia benefits from growing closer to fellow trees, you can benefit from connecting and sharing your story with others.
If you are interested in trying out group therapy or looking for ways to complement individual therapy sessions, we can help.
Contact us for more information or read on to learn more about group therapy and the groups we offer.
What Is Group Therapy?
Group therapy is a type of psychotherapy offered to a group of people of any age. Sessions are led by a licensed mental health professional trained to be the group’s guide towards wellness, connection, and personal growth.
The purpose of group therapy can vary by the type of group, therapist’s style, or targeted mental health challenge. Yet, it’s typically intended to educate, manage difficulties, reframe thoughts and behaviors, and develop coping skills.
Groups can be:
- Open for anyone to join at any time.
- Closed for only certain members to participate in a set time frame.
- Free-form, offering a lot of flexibility and freedom for members to participate as they wish with the therapist’s support.
- Structured, following a planned schedule or outline provided by the therapist.
Groups range from 3 to 10+ people and typically meet once or twice a week.
The role of the therapist can differ from group to group. For example, psychoeducational groups educate members about a particular mental health issue, so the therapist may adopt an instructor role. Alternatively, process-oriented groups center on how group members interact and relate to one another, during which the therapist acts as a moderator and guide.
Still, in most cases, therapists act as facilitators throughout the discussion, interceding and offering valuable input or recommendations when appropriate.
Do I Need Group Therapy?
Group therapy can help you address the following challenges:
- Abuse or domestic violence
- Anxiety
- Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
- Depression
- Eating disorders
- Fears or phobias
- Grief and loss
- Relationship problems
- Self-esteem issues
- Stress
- Trauma or Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
However, you don’t need to be struggling to see the fruits of this form of treatment. Group therapy can help you get to know yourself and strengthen your social skills.
You can also go to group therapy to build upon the progress made in individual therapy sessions.
How Can Group Therapy Help Me?
During group therapy, members have the opportunity to share their stories and concerns. Seeing yourself in others’ shoes can increase your hope, sense of belonging, and acceptance. You will realize you are truly not alone in this.
As you get familiar with the group, you will learn about each other’s processes, victories, and setbacks. Listening to their experiences and your therapist’s guidance can help broaden your scope and give you fresh insight into handling certain situations. You will come to understand that pain is universal, healing is possible, but the journey is not necessarily linear.
While in group therapy, you will become more aware of your interactions and how they influence others, gaining greater accountability and empowerment. Being in a group environment will also help you hone your communication and social skills and practice coping strategies.
Group Therapy at Sequoia Psychology Associates
Here at Sequoia Psychology Associates, we strive to support Californians in making lasting changes for a fulfilling life.
We provide group therapy along with individual therapy services to help you address your most pressing challenges, so you can grow and thrive.
Our team of psychologists has experience in a wide range of modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, and Mindfulness.
If you are struggling with perinatal loss, trauma, or social anxiety, we offer groups to support you. Join a like-minded community in a private space where you can speak your truth and grow.
Ready to get started? Contact us today for more information.