I believe that everyone desires a sense of belonging and connection and to be both understood and accepted by others. And yet at one point or another in our lives, most of us will find ourselves in relationships where we hide parts of ourselves for fear of being misunderstood or rejected.
Group therapy is one of the most effective ways for people to recognize their own patterns of relating to others, and, if indicated, to begin changing those patterns that keep them repeatedly stuck in relationships that are not as fulfilling, supportive or authentic as they would like. In the confidential and safe environment of a therapy group, a person can try out new ways of being. For example, a person who rarely gets angry may try verbally expressing their anger when they feel hurt, whereas another person who is quick-to-anger is supported to feel and express the sadness or hurt that underlies their anger. Whatever your relational task may be, group therapy is a relatively risk-free place to practice new ways of relating to others.
I see group therapy as a lab for life, and if you hope for more connected, authentic, and intimate relationships with others, it may be ideal for you. Group therapy is ongoing with no set end time, and its purpose is to become a safe enough space for you to find relief from in-depth relational patterns that cause a you to feel anxious, depressed, stuck, or wanting more from yourself and your relationships.