Group therapy offers significant benefits for managing mental health, as seen in the experiences of Denise Harrell and Jonathan Harmon. Both have found value in the support they receive from others who understand their struggles, as well as learning new coping skills to incorporate into their daily lives.
What is group therapy?
Group therapy is a form of psychotherapy where one therapist works with a group of six to 12 people facing similar issues. According to PsychCentral, participants in group therapy benefit not just from the therapist’s guidance but also from observing others and receiving feedback from the group. The combination of shared experiences and professional support helps individuals improve their mental health.
Coping Skills in Group Therapy
Harrell and Harmon both practice coping skills they’ve learned in their group sessions. Harrell uses a daily activity sheet and food journal to track eating habits and has successfully applied breathing techniques and affirmations to manage stress during travel. “I used my breathing techniques and affirmations to get myself through the hard part which, for me, is the travel,” she shared.
For Harmon, the group sessions provide valuable learning opportunities. He enjoys completing assignments that allow him to reflect on his thoughts and feelings. “The assignments help you get it out of your head and onto paper and be able to think things through better,” he explained.
The Importance of Learning from Others
Both Harrell and Harmon appreciate the chance to hear different perspectives from fellow group members. “Participants offer insights and experiences to help someone with an issue they are struggling with,” Harmon said. “It is cool to see people give their own input. It oftentimes is something you never thought of.”
The reading assignments that accompany each session also offer helpful background on mental health diagnoses, enhancing the overall therapeutic experience. Harmon, who attends both anxiety and bipolar disorder groups, values these lessons and the consistent growth he feels. “I struggled for so long with my mental health issues… knowing that the tools are there in group therapy is just great,” he said.
Finding Support and Connection in Group Therapy
Harrell was initially hesitant but decided to try group therapy after a Monarch expert suggested it as an alternative to individual counseling. “It helps to know that you are not the only one, and people are feeling the same way you do,” Harrell shared. “How do they get out of their funks when it happens to them?”
Harmon also found comfort in the group setting, noting the benefits of connecting with others who share similar challenges. “It may seem weird at first because mental health is a very private thing to us, but being able to go to group and soak in the realization that there are other people going through the exact same thing is comforting,” he said.
Support and Success Through Group Therapy
Both Harrell and Harmon agree that the support system within group therapy plays a major role in their progress. Harrell attends three groups — anxiety, bipolar disorder and eating disorders — and values the mutual support within the group. “We try to support each other and listen,” she said.
A Monarch therapist, who facilitates these groups, expressed her satisfaction with the growth she sees in participants. “It makes me feel so happy for them that they are able to come up with some solutions and learn skills for themselves,” she said. “They gain the confidence to facilitate the session themselves.”
Harrell shared how group therapy has helped her personal growth. “I feel stronger and more confident in my decisions for myself and my disorder… group therapy for me is something I look forward to because I learn something new about me and my disorder all the time,” she wrote.
Take the Next Step Toward Healing
If you’re considering group therapy for mental health support, it’s a great opportunity to learn new coping skills, share experiences and build lasting connections. Group therapy can help you manage symptoms, improve self-awareness and provide the emotional support you need. Visit HERE to view our services.