Group Psychotherapy
Group Psychotherapy
Human beings are wired for connection. Studies have consistently shown that we are social creatures who thrive on interacting with others, our brains releasing feel-good chemicals like oxytocin, dopamine and serotonin in response to friendship and intimacy.
Group therapy is based on the principle that social interaction is a fundamental human need, essential to our physical, mental and emotional well-being. In recovery, group therapy provides an opportunity for individuals to connect with others who are experiencing similar challenges and helps develop a sense of community and support. It can be particularly beneficial for those who feel isolated or alone in their struggles.
At Avalon Malibu, we use group therapy as a powerful tool to promote healing from addiction or mental health concerns. Our trained therapists guide group therapy sessions to build feelings of trust, encouragement, openness and support among participants, providing clients with the unique opportunity to learn from others as they work toward personal growth.
Group Therapy and Counseling at Avalon Malibu
At Avalon Malibu, group therapy is designed to help the client work towards a restructuring of the self. We offer traditional group therapy, which provides a safe space for individuals to connect with others, address their issues and find support among like-minded people, but we also organize group activities and excursions through nature to allow clients to experience a peaceful setting in which to explore and engage with peers in order to heal.
During all group therapy sessions, our staff members guide clients to participate in healthy, mindful and positive interactions. Group experiential and recreational therapies also help clients express their feelings and build a happier lifestyle. In recovery, art groups and other activity choices serve a purpose that goes far beyond entertainment.
What is Group Therapy?
Group therapy is a form of psychotherapy in which a small group of people meets under the guidance of professional therapists. These therapists are trained to guide discussions and help group members to learn and grow together as they explore their issues, share their experiences and provide each other with new insights or perspectives.
Group therapy has been a standard tool used by mental health professionals for over 50 years. According to a survey by the American Group Psychotherapy Association, group therapy is widely utilized in a variety of treatment settings, second only to individual therapy. That’s because the type of introspection gained during group can help people uncover specific things about themselves and work through their feelings more effectively. Often, this contributes to personal growth and strengthens both family and intimate relationships.
Avalon’s effective methods help clients address feelings of isolation and depression, and allow participants to make changes to improve the quality of their lives. However, group therapy can be used to treat a number of mental health concerns, including:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Trauma
- Substance use disorders
- Social anxiety
- Panic disorders
- Process addictions
- Personality disorders
- Phobias
- Relationship issues
- Grief and loss
- Stress management
Benefits of Group Therapy
Group therapy offers many benefits for individuals who are struggling with mental health challenges. For example, it can help reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness, which are common in people with depression, anxiety and other conditions. Group therapy also provides a safe and supportive environment where individuals can share their experiences, learn from others and develop new coping strategies.
In addition to emotional support, group therapy can also provide practical benefits. For instance, it can help individuals improve their communication skills, build healthier relationships and gain a sense of empowerment and control over their lives. These benefits often have a positive impact on individuals’ overall well-being and may even lead to long-term improvements in their physical and mental health.
What to Expect During Group Therapy
At Avalon Malibu, therapy sessions are collaborative, in which the therapist assumes responsibility for the whole group and its members. Within each session, members typically work through their problems, emotions, ideas and feelings as honestly as possible. This openness gives the group relevant information and enables each person to understand and help each other. Group therapy allows members to become therapeutic helpers.
Group therapy or psychotherapy is diverse; not every group is alike. There are a variety of styles that groups use, including interacting between members or addressing thoughts and behaviors. Some group methods are geared toward learning how to control negative thoughts or phobias, and others may work to relieve anxiety-inducing situations.
At Avalon Malibu, group psychotherapy is always led by a professional therapist. Group therapy is different from an alcohol or drug support group, or a self-help group, in that these groups usually focus on a particular shared symptom or situation.
As individual clients join group therapy at Avalon Malibu, they will learn from each other to better understand their own patterns of thought and behavior. They will see similarities and perceive reactions from one another. Each member learns that they are not that different from one another and they are not alone. The whole group learns to work on a shared problem together, which creates more involvement, progress and benefit for every participant.
Techniques Used by Avalon Malibu’s Licensed Therapists
Avalon Malibu’s therapists and counselors are highly knowledgeable in converting conflict and resistance into positive energy, which supports and powers group therapy. Consistency in procedure helps provide a safe and stable environment within our group therapy sessions. When the upheaval in the lives of our clients is considered, it is important to keep constant predictability in all aspects of the group. Disruptive group members, such as clients who talk incessantly or bolt from the sessions, are assisted professionally. Crises are turned into opportunities quickly and effectively. People who abuse substances are within a broad spectrum of the population spanning all ages, ethnic groups, personal histories and conditions. Avalon Malibu’s strong and effective leadership team of therapists uses the skills, qualities, styles and approaches required in any kind of therapeutic group setting.
Group therapy is a powerful tool for promoting personal growth, healing and connection. As a form of psychotherapy, it involves a small group of people who meet on a regular basis to discuss their problems and concerns and to support each other through life’s ups and downs. At Avalon Malibu, group therapy is an important part of our treatment process. Our goal is to help individuals realize they aren’t alone and overcome their challenges together. If you or a loved one is struggling with mental health or addiction, call us today at 888-958-7511 to learn more about our programs and find out how they can help.
