Why choose group therapy

Group therapy is cheaper as more people contribute to the cost of the session, and each person inputs into the group contract and agrees to this contract; this is an ideal option if you are looking to explore therapy but are unsure where to start. 

The sessions are slightly longer than typical sessions and are, in our case, themed each week, so psychoeducative information is provided through the sessions; these sessions have a great deal of value, as shared experiences help to normalise our own, those with depression, for example, are more than aware that those around them are not always understanding of their situation. This allows for normalising our experiences as well as sharing resources and experiences. 

Group sessions can also foster a sense of resilience as well as develop real-life communication skills.

There is a common misconception that is present with therapy and can prevent us from accessing support for personal development, group therapy is for anyone at any stage of thier life there does not have to be a 'problem' to access therapy you may just to works towards a goal of personal development.

YES! This is an amazing place to start your journey of confidence in a safe space; it's a great place to explore and fail at being an extrovert, recognising where your strengths are, as well as developing some stretch skills in these areas. If this is your concern you can always message the facilitator to develop in this area.

Nothing is needed before the session; phrases like " I am not sure " are perfectly okay to use during your first session. 

If you did want to prepare, things I find helpful (and this is different for everyone) are where I want to be in a month,  six months, or maybe a year. What is different is that this sometimes gives us an insight into what we want to achieve in therapy; there are no wrong answers; this could be as simple as eating habits or as complex as developing positive self-talk. 

In essence, yes, there should be time for an introduction; in group settings, this might feel a little awkward sometimes. I tend to find that being online allows you the comfort of your home, which clients have described as helpful. 

The sessions are usually broken up into reviewing the contract, ensuring everyone is happy with the lines of confidentiality, adding anything they feel is important, discussing the week's topic, or asking for guidance on a specific area. 

Throughout the session, I will usually share resources that are helpful as well.

The sessions are ended by checking in with each other and sometimes some homework if that is what is wanted, but this is not obligatory and certainly not graded!

This being said, the group has space for potently as well. 

Therapy, like all things, is not for everyone; this is a lower-cost way to explore this.

For complex mental health needs, therapy alone is not the answer; if you do have a complex mental health condition, support should also include other medical professionals; this is not to say that group therapy can not form part of a holistic plan, though. 

Group settings are not for everyone, and that is okay. If you are uncomfortable in large groups, we want to keep the group below seven people. If this expands, the group will become closed, and a new group will be formed; there's no obligation to attend every week.