In group therapy, people discuss issues related to their mental health surrounded by others who are dealing with similar challenges. Each session is facilitated by a trained mental health care counselor, and the setting offers a safe place free of judgement for individuals to share their thoughts and emotions aloud, find support, and identify solutions. Here are some other benefits one can gain from group therapy.

3 Reasons Why Group Therapy Is a Helpful Treatment Option

1. Realize You're Not Alone

Mental health issues can be isolating. They can cause you to feel as if you're the only in the world to have ever encountered certain traumas or adversities, thus are the only person that’s forced to cope with the resulting thoughts or feelings you’re experiencing. This notion can keep you cut off from the world, including the valuable support systems that are designed to help. In group therapy, you will discover the undeniable fact that you are not alone. There are others who understand where you're at, and they can share with you their own stories and what has helped them on their journeys. While no two experiences are ever exactly alike, no one is truly alone in the challenges they are facing.

2. Gain Multiple Perspectives

Group therapy lets others give their perspective on what you're going through. Multiple voices weighing in can provide you with the opportunity to see the other sides of a problem. For instance, say you and your partner have a fight. You might walk away initially believing your partner is in the wrong. However, after bringing it up with the group, you can see your role in what transpired more clearly. This allows you the chance to take ownership for your part in the discourse, discuss the issue with your partner, and make amends as necessary, ultimately resulting in a healthier relationship.

3. Strengthen Social Skills

Because mental health disorders can be isolating, they tend to keep people disconnected from valuable social contact. As a result, over time, social skills can wane. In group therapy, a person can rediscover the skills necessary to connect with others. They often find that they are still more than capable of communicating with and forming bonds with other people. This helps not only in the therapeutic setting, but also the outside world.

Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us through Open Access for services. Since 1983, Alleghany Highlands Community Services has provided Covington, VA, and surrounding areas compassionate counseling and emotional support. In addition to group therapy, they offer suicide prevention and intervention services, developmental support for children, and treatment for substance abuse problems. Call (540) 965-2135 or visit their website for additional information.