About Group Therapy

In group therapy, four to ten people meet in a group setting (whether it be virtual or in person) with one or more trained therapists. The content of the group varies by group type. Some groups teach tools and coping skills, while others assist with processing emotions and gaining/sharing support.

Members also give feedback to each other by expressing their own feelings about what someone says or does. This interaction gives group members an opportunity to try out new ways of behaving and to learn more about the way they interact with others in a safe environment. Group members are encouraged to keep all other participants' information confidential and asked not to discuss information shared by other members outside of the group.

Under the skilled direction of a group therapist, the group is able to give support, offer alternatives ways of thinking, and assist in developing coping skills The combination of direction from a group facilitator and support from group members often results in the resolve of presenting concerns, the learning of alternate behaviors, and developing new social techniques or ways of relating to people.

During group therapy, people begin to see that they are not alone. Many people feel they are unique because of their problems, and it is encouraging to hear that other people have similar difficulties. In the climate of trust provided by the group, people feel free to care about and help each other.

Talk about what brought you to the counseling center in the first place. If you need support, let the group know. Talk about how you relate to the subject or content of the particular group session. Share your experiences with other group members, or comment on how you relate to an experience another member has shared.

If you have applied information from a group to your own life and have experienced successes or challenges in making those changes, share that information with other members.

Benefits of group counseling may include:

  • Learn how you are perceived by others
  • Experience a sense of acceptance and belonging
  • Discover that you are not alone in the difficulties you are experiencing
  • Hear ideas from others which enhance your ability to make decisions and solve problems
  • Benefit from the experience of being helpful to others
  • Learn to constructively express your feelings and ideas to others
  • Gain encouragement by observing the successes of others

How to Join a Group

Please call CAPS at 702-895-3627 to schedule an initial consultation appointment. During the consultation let the provider know that you are interested in a particular group.

If you are currently receiving services at CAPS, let your current provider know you are interested in groups and they can assist you in the process.

List of Current Groups

Types of Group Counseling

Process

This type of group is to assist students in exploring and examining "here and now" personal and inter-personal experiences and dynamics to deepen self-awareness and to learn how they relate to others.

Psychoeducation

The goal of this type of group is to assist students in improving their knowledge and understanding of certain topics/issues pertinent to mental health.

Skills Training

The goal of this type of group is to assist students in learning psychological skills (e.g. relaxation techniques) to help regulate overall psychological well-being.

Support/Self-Help

The goal of this type of group is for members to provide each other with various types of help (e.g. emotional support, problem-solving).

Group Therapy and Common Myths

“Group therapy is less effective than individual therapy.”

Group therapy is as effective as individual therapy. You can learn from other’s experiences and support each other.

“My problems are not like other group members. My problems are worse than other group members.”

Students benefit from knowing that they are not alone in situations, regardless of what they are struggling with. While supporting others, you are also improving yourself. Additionally, you will be supported when you need it.

“People outside of the group will hear what I discussed.”

Members of the group are highly encouraged to maintain the privacy of other group members. Group leaders are legally required to maintain confidentiality.

“I will be forced to tell all of my deepest thoughts, feelings, and secrets to the group.”

You control what, how much, and when you share with the group. Most people find that when they feel safe enough to share what is troubling them, a group can be very helpful and affirming. We encourage you not to share what you are not ready to disclose. However, you can also be helped by listening to others and thinking about how what they are saying might apply to you.

“I have so much trouble talking to people; I'll never be able to share in a group.”

Most people are anxious about being able to talk in groups. Almost without exception, within a few sessions people find that they do begin to talk in the group.

“Group therapy will take longer than individual therapy because I will have to share the time with others.”

Actually, group therapy can be more efficient than individual therapy. You can benefit from the group even during sessions when you say little but listen carefully to others. You will find that you have much in common with other group members, and as they work on a concern, you can learn more about yourself.