Group therapy

Group therapy, according to the book “Theory and practice of group psychotherapy” (Jalom, 2005).

One of the basic principles focuses on the hope that group therapy brings to its members. Each individual comes to therapy with a specific problem, and in the group, unlike the individual approach, they come face to face with others who share similar psychological challenges. Seeing others progress provides encouragement and proof that there is hope for solving one’s own problems. Group dynamics significantly contributes to the encouragement of this positive attitude.

Joy also emphasizes “universality” as a key element of change in group therapy. Group therapy brings together people who share their experiences, confirming that human problems are universal. This reduces feelings of isolation and increases the belief that many share similar experiences. An important aspect of ‘universality’ is aimed at reducing the catastrophic perception of one’s own problems and reducing feelings of personal inadequacy and anxiety.

Group therapy provides a sense of community and enables members to engage together in solving the problem. Mutual support is achieved through the sharing of challenges, progress and strategies that support personal progress.

Based on altruism, group therapy involves members sharing not only their weaknesses, but also their strengths with others. This process of developing altruism contributes to increased self-esteem, belief in oneself and others, and the development of love for oneself and others.

Group therapy enables corrective emotional experience, the resolution of unresolved conflicts from the past and coping with them in the “here and now”. A safe and supportive group environment provides a fertile ground for the development of better social skills through the exploration of new behaviors.

Interpersonal learning is a key component of group therapy, where members receive direct feedback on their behavior from other group members. This aspect enables individuals to better understand how they are perceived by others and provides support in modifying behavior.

Group therapy is based on the principle of cohesion, creating a sense of belonging, mutual trust and gratitude. Openness in the group enables the release of negative emotions, resulting in significant improvements in the lives of group members.

Through group therapy, a sense of responsibility emerges, where members gradually realize that they are responsible for their future regardless of a difficult childhood or traumatic events from the past. The feeling of responsibility becomes a powerful motivator for change, promoting the development of self-respect and personal control.