Group Therapy is treatment consisting of psychotherapy in a small-group setting. It's probably one of the most effective and powerful forms of therapy--and, for many people, it's a comfortable introduction to the therapeutic process. While Group Therapy is also highly cost-effective, it's certainly not second-rate treatment. Some find it preferable to individual work, while others find it an outstanding supplement to Therapy.

Group Therapy builds a powerful sense of community and a profound, visceral awareness that you're not alone in your struggles. Group Therapy often is insightful, supportive, empowering, and sometimes scary and even a little embarassing. Group sessions are typically longer than Individual sessions, usually 90 minutes. Group membership may be Open or Closed. Open Groups accept new members on an on-going basis. Closed Groups do not. Some groups are "On-Going" or "Perpetual," meaning there is no pre-determined ending date. Many Groups last a set number of sessions. Group membership is typically homogenous, meaning group members share something in common, like a diagnosis or a treatment goal. Heterogenous group members do not share personal traits or characteristics, but are often drawn by a shared desire for a group experience. Most groups have 3 to 10 members, plus a therapist and sometimes a co-therapist who facilitate and at times directly lead the group.

A Word About Community Support Groups

Community Support Groups are not Group Therapy. Support Groups do not include trained professionals, nor are they structured or delivered in a clinically effective manner or based on well-researched mental health theory. They are not treatment. Because Support Groups are not professionally delivered and because they are self-regulated by untrained volunteers, they vary greatly in quality. Some Support Groups are so unhealthy and dysfunctional they may jeopardize your well-being. These groups undermine healthy progress you've made and worked hard for.

That said, a healthy, functional, effective Support Group is wonderfully supportive. Many people find solace in a Support Group, because they offer a valuable sense of community--it helps knowing you're not alone, since support groups draw members who share something in common. Support Groups of all types may be found in your local newspaper or through community service agencies, governmental agencies, or faith-based organizations, such as a Church, Temple, or Mosque.

Skill-Building Classes are not Group Therapy. They are group-based educational and behavioral activities that focus on delivering skill-specific training and health- and treatment-related information.

Classes are short, focused, and practical. They do for the "head" what therapy does for the "heart." Classes are excellent supplements to all forms of treatment. For some people, Skill-Building is all they really need.

Skill-Building classes are especially helpful for:

• Individuals with identified skill deficits, such as limited coping skills, conflict resolution, anger management, or social skills.
• Individuals with problematic behavior and limited alternative behaviors that are more healthful and pro-social.
• Families wanting to ensure everyone is "on the same page" in learning about and understanding a particular special need.
• Parents wanting tips and techniques on family structure, firm but fair discipline, behavioral modification,personal and family stress management, and healthy self-care.
• Children and adolescents with social deficits due to a condition or diagnosis, such as a Pervasive Developmental Disorder (Autism Spectrum Disorder, Asperger's Syndrome), an Intellectual Disability, or an Emotional Disturbance.
• Employers, community groups, or families wanting "custom education and training" on issues pertaining to mental health, disabilities, or special needs.