Support group therapy

In this overview of support group therapy, learn the benefits, what to expect and if you many be a candidate for a support group.

Support group therapy, as the name implies, is a type of psychological therapy that is conducted with a group of people, rather than in a one-on-one session.

Benefits of support groups

Probably the biggest advantage of support group therapy is in helping a patient realise that he or she is not alone -- that there are other people who have the same problems. This is often a revelation, and a huge relief, to the person.

Being in a support group can also help you develop new skills to relate to others. The dynamics of a group often mirror those of society in general, and learning how to interact with the other members of the group can help you in your relationships outside the group. In addition, the members of the group who have the same problem(s) can support each other, and may offer suggestions to deal with a particular problem that you may not have thought of.

When joining a support group, you may be uncomfortable at first when it comes to the time to discuss your problems in front of strangers. However, the fact that others are facing the same type of situation as you may help you open up and discuss your feelings. In addition, everything that takes place within the support group should be kept confidential.

What to expect in a support group

Support groups vary, but the basic format is a small group of patients (maybe no more than ten) meet on a regular basis to discuss their feelings and problems and provide mutual support. The session is guided by a professional therapist who is specially trained in group therapy. The therapist acts as moderator and may suggest a ‘theme’ or topic for the group's discussion. Sometimes, the therapist will allow the group members to pick the topic for the session.

As part of the group therapy session, members try to change their old ways of behaving in favour of newer, more productive ways. Typically, there is a great deal of interaction and discussion among the members of the group. The members may also undertake specific activities, such as addressing certain fears and anxieties.

Am I a candidate for a support group?

Support groups can help anyone who is in need of psychological services. Like individual therapy, support groups can benefit people with such conditions as depression, family problems, addictions, etc. In some cases, people who are taking part in group therapy will also undergo individual counselling (one-on-one with a therapist).

The makeup of the support group varies; in some cases, the group consists of people who have the same condition (for example, depression). In other cases, the group is mixed.

Your GP can offer advice about suitable support groups in your area. They may be run by the NHS or local charities and organisations.