Myths and Realities of Group Therapy

Group therapy is a kind of psychotherapy where one or more therapists works with several people together. Whether online, in-person, or hybrid, receiving therapy alongside others can enhance your individual therapy, deepen your commitment to change, and reduce loneliness. At Mind, we recommend participating in a DBT skills group alongside DBT-focused individual therapy. When we think of groups at Mind Chicago, we often think of 4-8 people meeting weekly to develop new skills, practice skills with others, and/or manage barriers to living a meaningful life. 

Talking to a group of “strangers” about your private issues may feel daunting at first. Yet, group therapy has remarkable benefits including greater affordability than individual therapy (it’s cheaper and provides similar or the same benefits), social skill enhancement, and improved self-esteem, self-awareness, and confidence. Science shows that some kinds of group therapy, such as CBT or DBT skills groups, are VERY effective in managing symptoms of social anxiety, depression, mood dysregulation, and substance use. In fact, psychologists, like Dr. Ben Johnson, say that “group members are almost always surprised by how rewarding the group experience can be.” 

There are a number of group therapy myths that prevent folks from seeking out these services. We’ve asked our therapists at Mind Chicago to help us bust some of the most common group therapy myths.

Myths and realities of group therapy

Myth: “I will be forced to tell everyone my deepest thoughts, feelings, and secrets.”

Reality: Movies and television often portray group therapy as something strange, uncomfortable, and forced. In reality, group therapy is a warm, inviting space specifically designed to encourage you to make meaningful connections and take social chances while learning ways to manage life difficulties. Group therapy often takes the pressure off one individual since everyone is learning, processing, practicing, and supporting together. Keep in mind, therapists understand that sharing emotions and experiences can be intimidating AND don’t be surprised if they encourage you to use the space in a brave way. Most people (even children) find that sharing some aspect of their personal experience is supportive and affirming. Yet, there is no “right” or “wrong” when it comes to speaking in group. 

The takeaway… you control what, how much, and when you share with the group. 

Myth: “Group therapy is like going to school.”

Reality: There are no grades in group therapy and there isn’t a “right” or “wrong” way to do it. Instead of sitting at a desk and listening to a teacher talk the whole time, group therapy is a place where members have the opportunity to talk, listen, and have fun. While there may be activities to practice in between sessions, the goal is not to overwhelm, but to rehearse the new skills in real life so you can use them when you need them most. This may come as a surprise but our virtual teen and young adult groups are our most popular at Mind Chicago. Why? Well, folks have told us that groups “don’t feel like school,” are “very supportive,” and help people make change in more realistic ways.

Myth: “If I do share, the group members or leaders may not like what I have to say or judge me.”

Reality: The therapist(s) leading the group help to create a supportive and healing environment. This means that they set the tone for helpful ways to share, respond, and address issues. Some of the greatest benefits of group therapy include giving and receiving gentle feedback, learning from one another, and experiencing validation and acceptance from participants struggling with similar issues. 

Myth: “My child has social anxiety, so a group isn’t a fit for them.”

Reality: Group therapy is actually a great place to build social confidence and reduce social anxiety. In fact, we would recommend a group for young folks with social anxiety! Being in a group setting with others who are working toward similar goals can actually help decrease feelings of isolation. Exposure to uncertainty, discomfort and feedback are all factors that aid in alleviating social anxiety. We acknowledge that speaking in front of a group (no matter the size) can be daunting. Group therapy provides a less-threatening space to practice speaking and social strategies before using them in the “real” world. 

At Mind Chicago, we have folks that attend individual therapy, group therapy, or both! For more information on group therapy reach out to us at hello@mindchicago.com.

Authored by Mind Chicago therapist Fatima Sakrani, LSW

Contributors include Mind Chicago therapists Julie McClellan, LCSW, Graham McNamee, AM, LCSW, CADC, and Lee Wells, AM, LCSW.