Getting to Know Others

Group therapy involves a number of residents and a therapist to lead and guide the group. There are different types of groups - some educational and other groups are problem solving in nature. Education groups consist of a student/teacher relationship while other groups such as peer groups, come together to discuss problems and seek feedback from other individuals to assist in recognizing and finding solutions to problems. In the peer group, the therapist can present an important concept and will encourage the group members to share their thoughts and feelings on this concept - therefore giving the group members an opportunity to speak and share their beliefs and values. Group therapy is run in a support fashion to discuss problems that an individual may be having.

The therapist, without overpowering the discussion itself, will guide others in the group to share personal experiences or knowledge, as to shape the group to support one another, finding effective ways to manage problems and giving individuals equal chances to talk. Group therapy has been proven to be a very effective form of therapy because of its supportive nature involving other individuals who are experiencing the same or similar problems in life.