Groups
Why Consider Getting Help in a Group Setting?
Many people assume that having the therapist’s undivided attention is preferable to being in a group. That is certainly true for highly specific problems such as processing traumatic memories or complex relationship problems. But even so, there is always groundwork that needs to be laid first – acquiring a shared language, learning coping skills, and deepening self-awareness about the nature of the problem.
And these can absolutely be done in a group setting
— with many added advantages —
that are particularly well-suited to healing from chronic health problems...
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So often chronic pain sufferers feel misunderstood and invalidated by their friends and family. It decreases shame when you discover others have the same struggles.
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You make new friends, share ideas and resources, and feel stronger just knowing you aren’t alone facing your problem. It feels good to be with others who “get it.”
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Pain and depression can be particularly isolating. Group participation automatically gives you some structure and opportunity to interact with others while still in the comfort of your own home.
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We are all wired for connection and having a sense of belonging is a significant marker of health.
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Learning in a group can be more comprehensive because we can learn from others’ questions and experiences.
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If you don’t have insurance or have a high deductible, group participation is much more cost effective than individual treatment. My group program presents the information in a very organized sequential way, which proves to be much more efficient than doing it one-on-one. So not only do you pay less per session, you get more information.
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Because insurance isn’t involved, your health records won’t include your group participation.
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Groups are a safe place to practice relational skills you find challenging (such as interpersonal boundaries, asserting yourself, and receiving affirmation and support).
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We often see unhelpful patterns of thinking and acting in others sooner than we do in ourselves.
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Group work is a thing! Group experiences have been proven to be life-altering and transformative.
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Your individual therapy will get a jump start as you begin to employ the skills and information you learn in the group. It will help you zero in on the most relevant themes to explore with your solo therapist.
Here’s What Group Work Can Do:
“Connection is why we’re here. We are hardwired to connect with others, it’s what gives purpose and meaning to our lives, and without it there is suffering.”
― Brené Brown
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My highest priority is to create a safe and supportive environment to facilitate authentic discussion. The group consent form you will need to sign to join a group includes some rules that help to promote that.
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Sharing is encouraged but not required. You can always pass when I’m asking for input from participants. Group size is limited to a maximum of 10. Past participants who were anxious about this at the start have given me the feedback that they ended up feeling quite comfortable sharing. In fact, a few of them found that this group experience helped them overcome their discomfort in groups!
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Signing a contract that includes rules about confidentiality is required for participation. This helps members feel comfortable opening up as much as they want. Only first names are necessary. I use Zoom which is HIPAA compliant.
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I employ several strategies with how I structure meetings to make sure that sharing is balanced in meetings. Nonetheless, if one member is taking too much time, I will gently encourage them to shorten their sharing.
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I’m in the same boat! I try to make all the logistics quite clear, but if you are confused, I am always available to help you figure it out (just like everything else you’ll be learning!). As with anything, you can learn how to use tech and then you’ll grow in confidence with it. The platform I use is designed to be very user-friendly and straightforward.