How Does Group Therapy Work?
Groups may vary widely in purpose and style. On one end of the continuum, a group can be psychoeducational in nature. The group leader maintains a “didactic” or educator position, imparting information to the group members. The information provided generates discussion between the members. The leader has an important role in structuring the learning experience. Therapists who work under this model may suggest activities inside or outside the group (homework) in order to help develop these skills, i.e. communication, social, problem resolution skills, etc. These groups rely heavily upon the use of intellectual, rational understanding, and the conscious wish of the member to make changes based upon ‘decision’ and drawing on the ‘will power’ to fight against old habits in order to practice new behaviors. The identification that members feel towards one another is a powerful force to sustain motivation and to support each other in times when obstacles to the goal present themselves. These groups are usually constituted by people who have a common goal or issue, and the work circumscribes to a specific goal.
On the other end of the continuum, the focus is upon ‘group process.’ In these groups, people from potentially different walks of life with unique struggles or issues come together. These groups parallel natural social environments. Each member comes with a different agenda and the wish to resolve some issue that pains him or her. What people talk about, and the interactions that occur between the members, happens spontaneously. How people relate to others, their thoughts, feelings and actions, over time, tell an their “story.” The member reveals him or herself, letting others “know” them, and they gain a new awareness of self. It is through the group’s natural interactions, as in life itself, that people attempt to get their emotional needs met. In the process, they are able to discover the internal obstacles to getting what they say it is they want. In these process groups, the therapist has a very different role. His or her role is to facilitate progressive communication between group members; the role is of a more passive nature.
Below is a description of the groups being offered at Weston PsychCare, P.A.
Social Skills Groups for Children and Adolescents
Three groups are designed to strengthen the social skills of children (8-11 years), teens (12-15 years), and young adults (16-19 years) as we discuss issues that are common amongst their age group. Childhood is a fundamental stage of life and its influence easily extends into adult life. Providing your child at an early age with skills that will (a) improve communication skills, (b) reduce tantrum behaviors, (c) minimizing impulsive and aggressive behaviors, (d) strengthen self esteem, (e) manage anxiety related to school and (f) encourage appropriate peer interactions is essential for a successful adulthood. These skills will also be addressed in the adolescent group, along with more verbal processing which will allow the expression and management of emotions regarding issues typical of the teenage years (e.g. family conflicts, peer pressure, at-risk behaviors, and decision-making). Adolescence is a transitional stage that involves psychological transformations. The group will provide them with a space to address matters in a setting with their peers.
Emotional Eating
This is an ongoing group oriented toward adults who suffer from being overweight due to emotional eating habits. Boredom, sadness and anger are among the emotions associated with “hungerless” eating. The group assists members in learning how to eat “mindfully,” using biological hunger and fullness cues. The group will work on developing alternate coping skills and ways to self-soothe. Additionally, the group will offer nutrition education on grocery shopping, healthy eating habits, adequate food portions and label reading. Eating mindfully and incorporating nutritional knowledge into healthy eating patters will help the group member to reach a recommended body weight and live a healthy life.
Teen Relational Aggression
This group is oriented towards adolescents who have experienced relational aggression, either in the role of the aggressor or victim. Members will explore and come to understand the underlying motivations, behaviors and feelings associated with ongoing problems in social situations. The group will aim to increase insight into the cycle of victimization and to develop efficacy in dealing with difficult peer relationships. Issues of power, envy, jealousy, exclusion, anger, etc. will be addressed.
Parenting Skills
This six session group is oriented towards parents of children of any age. The group focuses on exploring and becoming aware of the unconscious motivations that shape the parenting relationship each member develops with his/her child. Within the context of developmental theories and normal age expectations, the group works together in finding ways to resolve problematic behaviors in the child, parent or the relationship. This group is conducted in a two-fold manner; reflecting on the deeper individual’s parenting philosophy, and the development of concrete skills and strategies to face the daily challenges of uncovering the true potential of your child and the parenting emotional experience. Separate English and Spanish speaking groups will be held.
Relational Issues
This ongoing group is oriented towards adults motivated to learn about themselves in relationship to others. Most of us feel most challenged when feelings of intimacy or aggression are aroused. These feelings most often present themselves in the context of sustained relationships such as ongoing groups. Group therapy is an ideal method for recognizing individual repetitions that interfere with successful and enjoyable relationships. Through reenactments that occur in the moment with therapist and other group members, it is possible to identify patterns of behaviors or emotional states that disrupt relationships. When dark meanings and unconscious motivations rise to awareness, they can be taken into account, and can be influenced or changed. This revelation can result in a wider range of choices, increased sense of freedom and a richer, more adaptable repertoire of behaviors and feelings. This group applies to marital, parental, work or social relationships. It is held separately in both English and Spanish.
Recovery from Disordered Eating
This group is organized around assisting and supporting the individual already committed to her treatment and recovery. This open-ended group is a means of supporting the work being done in individual psychotherapy. Those who are struggling with symptoms of anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa are invited to discuss and examine their struggles and efforts in recovery. Issues addressed in this group include conflicts with self-esteem, boy image, family dynamics, and interpersonal relationships. Examining the function and purpose of one’s symptoms is also open for discussion as is methods of symptom management and alleviation.
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