There are many types of therapy to address a number of behavioral, cognitive, and mental health issues. One of these types of therapy is group therapy, which provides a safe, guided, and supportive environment for people living with various mental health issues to explore helpful coping mechanisms. But, what are the benefits of group therapy people with mental health issues should expect?

What Can I Expect During Group Therapy?

If you have never been to a group therapy session, you may be wondering what to expect. Going to a therapy session that involves people you may not know can be a bit overwhelming. However, there is nothing to be afraid of since everyone involved in a group therapy session is on the same page, share similar experiences, and can benefit from what group therapy provides. Group therapy can lead to a pleasant experience that you want to utilize for many years to come. And, provides a place for people to develop supportive friendships with others who may better understand their mental health struggles.

Some of the things you can expect from group therapy sessions include:

• they’re led by a mental health counselor in order to guide conversation and topics
• they meet regularly, typically 1-2 times a week
• providing tools necessary to learn helpful relationship tools
• providing a secure and supportive environment to share feelings and experiences
• they can help you learn and practice being supportive to others
• giving you the opportunity to meet and begin relationships with others in your community

Along with these expectations, you can also expect to experience some of the many benefits of group therapy including:

Forward Movement With Your Mental Health Treatment Plan

Group therapy can give you the confidence to open up about feelings and obstacles you’re struggling with during your mental health treatment journey. Furthermore, hearing about the issues that others face during their mental health recovery journey can also help you deal with issues you face as well. So, group therapy can give you these tools in order to overcome obstacles and propel you forward in your mental health recovery plan.

Helping With Your Relationship Building

Building and maintaining relationships is crucial for establishing the support network you need throughout your mental health recovery and healing. During group therapy, you’ll meet others who are struggling with similar mental health issues which can provide you with potential support. Plus, during group therapy sessions, you’ll learn about and get to practice relationship-building tools like boundary-setting, communication, and more. Therefore, helping you to build the essential relationship-building skills you need to maintain and create a supportive group of individuals who are about your mental wellbeing.

It Can Teach you More About Yourself and What You’re Feeling

Hearing about the experiences of others can help you understand your own feelings and experiences. During group therapy sessions, people are encouraged to share their thoughts, emotions, and stories about their mental health. This allows you to make connections with others’ experiences and your own, giving you a new insight into how you’re truly feeling and your own personal experiences with mental health.

Joining Group Therapy Sessions at Yellowbrick

Looking for a safe and supportive environment to meet your mental health recovery goals? Group therapy is a great start and tool used during mental health treatment. If you’re looking for a group therapy opportunity to help you or a loved one struggling with mental health issues, Yellowbrick can help. We’re an outpatient mental health treatment facility located near Chicago that helps individuals dealing and diagnosed with various mental health issues including eating disorders, addiction, and much more. Find out more about our services and treatment options from our website or give us a call today at 866-234-0222.