Group Psychotherapy
Most people are unaware that there is a substantial body of research that shows group therapy to be every bit as effective as individual therapy. (see Yalom--5th edition). Even in mental health circles there are common myths that are quite erroneous concerning group work: groups are cheaper, but not as effective for real issues; there won't be enough time for one's own issues; a bunch of neurotic nut cases couldn't help each other; and so on. Sometimes mental health professionals are biased negatively toward groups because they really haven't had much training in running one. In fact, groups offer a number of advantages over individual work and probably would be a better choice for many individuals, in some ways especially for the very individuals who think they would not want to be in a group or wouldn't do well in one. Groups offer live situations as opposed to a more edited version the individual is likely to relate to the therapist. One has to realize that the group setting actually is a microcosm of what happens in general regarding interpersonal relationships, and all problems in living ultimately have at least an interpersonal component. When one talks one on one to a therapist, the chances are diminished that the therapist will be able to get a good look at how a person comes across in the real world or under stressful encounters. Often, the client seldom has had an opportunity to learn what it is that he or she is doing that causes relational problems. Maybe more importantly, clients and people in general often do not know what it is about them that is truly likeable, lovable, inspirational, encouraging, etc. These positive attributes are extremely important and valuable to realize and to acknowledge within oneself. Although each of us tends to think that he or she is unique, the reality is that we have an awful lot in common with each other, so in a group one frequently has an opportunity to observe someone else working on the same problem we might have. In other words, there's a chance to see what the issue looks like from the outside, and to learn vicariously. Of course this cannot happen in individual work. Finally, with certain kinds of problems it's especially relieving just to know one isn't alone with whatever it is. Group members end up caring about each other, and there's a power in that aspect of groups that is beyond description.
If you think you might be interested in a group, pick a therapist who has training and experience in this modality. The group experience should be different from a social gathering in that it's basis is honesty and openness with each other. An atmosphere of trust and honesty takes a little time to develop, but the direction should be clear from the outset. Group work also should provide humor. Humor changes perspective and allows us a look at ourselves that might be a bit too difficult in a totally serious environment. After all, human beings actually are pretty funny! So if this modality sounds like something that could be of benefit to you, or you have questions, please use the form at the end of this site to contact me and to inquire about the start up dates for one.
New Groups for Spring 2013: (call for info or to sign up)
Older Bolder Group
You have to be over 55 and male to join this group. It’s that exclusive! If you do join you agree to be part of a process that’s designed to get you on course. Many men who retire soon feel like they just lost a part of their identity at a time when there isn’t all that much time left. There’s an awareness that the clock in fact is running. If you have enough health and money, you can travel, but for today’s boomer generation, that just may not be the answer. What is the answer? Or is there one? This group will set you back $125/month and will get you together with others who are interested in running a good race and finishing strong. Meets weekly for 90 minutes. Time TBD.
Mixed Gender Relational Group
This is a group of 6-8 people who want to explore relationship patterns. One to one therapy limits your therapist from seeing how you really interact with others, and in most social situations we just don’t tell each other about either strengths or liabilities. Consequently we have difficulty figuring out what we are doing that promotes the same old unwanted outcomes with relationships. This group is designed to provide new awareness in an atmosphere of safety that will encourage risk taking and new behavior. $125/mo. Meets weekly for 90 minutes. Time TBD.
If you think you might be interested in a group, pick a therapist who has training and experience in this modality. The group experience should be different from a social gathering in that it's basis is honesty and openness with each other. An atmosphere of trust and honesty takes a little time to develop, but the direction should be clear from the outset. Group work also should provide humor. Humor changes perspective and allows us a look at ourselves that might be a bit too difficult in a totally serious environment. After all, human beings actually are pretty funny! So if this modality sounds like something that could be of benefit to you, or you have questions, please use the form at the end of this site to contact me and to inquire about the start up dates for one.
New Groups for Spring 2013: (call for info or to sign up)
Older Bolder Group
You have to be over 55 and male to join this group. It’s that exclusive! If you do join you agree to be part of a process that’s designed to get you on course. Many men who retire soon feel like they just lost a part of their identity at a time when there isn’t all that much time left. There’s an awareness that the clock in fact is running. If you have enough health and money, you can travel, but for today’s boomer generation, that just may not be the answer. What is the answer? Or is there one? This group will set you back $125/month and will get you together with others who are interested in running a good race and finishing strong. Meets weekly for 90 minutes. Time TBD.
Mixed Gender Relational Group
This is a group of 6-8 people who want to explore relationship patterns. One to one therapy limits your therapist from seeing how you really interact with others, and in most social situations we just don’t tell each other about either strengths or liabilities. Consequently we have difficulty figuring out what we are doing that promotes the same old unwanted outcomes with relationships. This group is designed to provide new awareness in an atmosphere of safety that will encourage risk taking and new behavior. $125/mo. Meets weekly for 90 minutes. Time TBD.