Group Therapy
Group therapy sessions at 70 West provide a safe and supportive environment for individuals to openly discuss their feelings. They typically consist of five to eight members who meet weekly for an hour and a half to two hours.
Some groups discuss topics based on shared concerns, while others already have a predetermined theme or topic for the session. A trained counselor facilitates each group, guiding the discussion. Confidentiality is strictly maintained regarding attendee identities and the content of the discussions during each group session.
How Can Group Counseling Help?
It can be challenging to see all the different elements contributing to our emotional distress. The connection and interactions made during group counseling can help each person uncover truths about themselves and their relationships with others.
In the safety of the group therapy setting, individuals have the opportunity to interact openly and honestly with a supportive group led by a trained therapist. Group therapy offers a unique space for self-discovery, providing members with the opportunity to see themselves in a new light through the eyes of others. Group Therapy provides a place where new attitudes and coping strategies can be explored, all while receiving support and feedback from fellow group members.
This type of therapy is particularly beneficial for those who feel isolated or misunderstood, and it's often surprising for members to realize how much they have in common with others.
We believe healing takes place within community, find yours with 70 West Counseling.
The following are some examples of issues a group counseling environment can help resolve:
Relationship problems with family/friends
Self-assertiveness
Feelings of isolation
Trouble making decisions
Mild to moderate depression
Feeling anxious without focus or direction
Coping with grief and loss
Dealing with expectations of others or yourself
What Can I Expect from Group Therapy?
How much do I have to talk about myself?
People often assume that they will be pressured to disclose their deepest secrets in group therapy, but this is not true. In group therapy, you have complete control over how much you want to share. However, you will be encouraged to talk about what led you to the group and your thoughts about other members, family, friends, and life. It's entirely up to you how much you want to reveal. The more you contribute to the group, the more you will benefit from it. The therapist leading the group understands how intimidating it can be to interact with strangers, and their role is to create a supportive and safe environment for sharing. This will help you feel comfortable addressing your issues and finding solutions that work for you.
What are the ground rules when engaging in a group?
Everything, from the people in the group to the conversations, is confidential. Confidentiality is a rule every member must agree to. If you will be missing a meeting, letting the group leader know as soon as possible is important, preferably at least 24 hours in advance. Should you choose to leave before the group's conclusion for any reason, we request that you come to the meeting to