Why Group Therapy? The Power of Healing Alongside Others

By Kate (Katie) Pargament, Taproot Therapy Clinical Trainee

Starting therapy can feel vulnerable. Starting therapy with a group of people can feel even more intimidating. You might wonder, What if I don't know what to say? What if no one understands me?

But being around others is also what can make group therapy so powerful.
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Group therapy brings together a small number of people with one or more trained mental health professionals. Some groups focus on specific concerns or teach practical skills, while others focus on relationships, patterns, and personal growth.


Realizing You're Not Alone

One of the most meaningful parts of group therapy is realizing that experiences you thought were unique to you may actually be shared by others.

Hearing someone put words to something you've experienced can help reduce feelings of isolation. Group members can also offer different perspectives, support, and ways of approaching challenges that you may not have considered before.

According to the American Psychological Association, group therapy can provide a valuable support network while helping people recognize that they are not alone in what they're experiencing.


Practicing Change in Real Time

Many of the things we work on in therapy show up in our relationships. Maybe you struggle to say no, worry about disappointing people, avoid conflict, or have difficulty expressing what you need.

In individual therapy, you can talk about these patterns. In group therapy, you may actually notice them happening.

This creates an opportunity to try something different in a supportive environment. You might practice expressing an opinion, setting a boundary, asking for support, communicating a need, or allowing yourself to be vulnerable.

Group therapy isn't simply a replacement for individual therapy. Research has found it can be an effective form of treatment for a wide range of mental health concerns, and some people choose to participate in both individual and group therapy.



Group Therapy at Taproot Therapy NYC

Relational Process Group for People Pleasers

Taproot Therapy is offering a virtual Relational Process Group for People Pleasers beginning in September, meeting Thursdays from 6:00–7:30 PM.

Participants will explore patterns around putting others first, difficulty expressing their needs, setting boundaries, and worrying about disappointing others. Drawing from ACT, existential, attachment, and systems approaches, the group will focus on building greater self-worth, values-based living, and healthier relationships.

The cost is $70 per session, and the group accepts most major insurances. For questions or to schedule a free 15-minute consultation to see if the group may be right for you, contact [email protected].


12-Week DBT Skills Group

Taproot Therapy is also offering a 12-week DBT Skills Group for adults (18+) beginning in October, meeting Wednesdays from 5:00–6:30 PM.

Participants will learn practical skills in mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness. The group is designed for those experiencing anxiety, feeling overwhelmed by emotions, struggling with boundaries or self-care, or wanting to strengthen their coping and relationship skills.

The cost is $700 for the full 12-week program, and the group is in-network with Cigna. For questions or to register, contact [email protected].


You Don't Have to Figure It Out Alone

Group therapy offers something unique: the opportunity to learn about yourself while connecting with and learning from others. Sometimes growth happens through being heard, sometimes through hearing someone else, and sometimes through realizing you aren't as alone in your experiences as you thought.
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Source
American Psychological Association. (2019). Psychotherapy: Understanding group therapy.