What is Group Therapy?

Life doesn’t make any sense without interdependence. We need each other, and the sooner we learn that, the better for us all.

-Erik Erikson

If the last several months have left you feeling isolated, lonely and longing for human connection again, you might consider group therapy. There are many times in life that people go through similar struggles – the turmoil and identity crises of adolescence, the confusion about life choices experienced by 20somethings, the overwhelming pressures of parenthood. Group therapy assures people that they are not alone and that others share similar struggles. 

An obvious benefit of group therapy is the opportunity to receive support from others, Sometimes what’s even more helpful is being able to give support to others. While receiving support is part of the bonding or therapeutic alliance that occurs in groups, giving support allows for growth and learning.

Group therapy helps individuals develop communication skills and socialization skills. These skills can be especially important for teens and young adults. They can also practice accepting support (or criticism) from others. They can also develop self-awareness by listening to others who are similar to themselves. The simple act of sharing one’s experience with others can itself be therapeutic.

Compass Counseling of Paducah will be offering virtual group therapy through Telehealth during the summer of 2020. Individuals will be referred by their current therapist, or, for new clients, pre-screened by a therapist to determine whether group therapy will be beneficial. All participants will be expected to sign a general consent and confidentiality agreement. 

Our groups may be a combination of psychoeducational (providing coping skills for things like anxiety and depression) and process (more supportive in nature). 

- Leslie Donner

Leslie Donner, LPP, practices in the Paducah location you can schedule an appointment with her by texting or calling 270-777-4490 or by clicking the gold book an appointment button below!

F.A.Q.’s

Will my insurance cover the cost of groups? 

In most cases, yes. Many commercial insurances as well as Medicaid are covering all copays and coinsurances for Telehealth mental health services during the Pandemic. For clients wanting to pay cash, the cash rate for group therapy will be much more affordable than the individual therapy rate. Call your provider or ask us to help you find this information.

How large are these groups?

They will typically be 6-8 people and will meet weekly for approximately 75 minutes. Group members will be matched based on age and other factors. 

What is the structure of group therapy?

This can vary, but members typically will “check-in” at the beginning, expressing anything they would prefer to talk about that day. There may be a “homework” activity from the week before. In teen groups, the homework may have been to watch a specific movie and reflect on the meaning. Some groups whose members are particularly creative may even want to share art or music they have been working on at home. There will be a time for reflection and words of support and encouragement by the therapist and other group members. 

What types of groups will be available?

Initially, we will be offering a teen group and a college-aged group, both focusing on anxiety and depression. Future groups may include new moms/working moms or other groups when there is enough interest in a particular focus.

Here’s the truth, you are overwhelmed, stuck and know something has got to change, but asking for help is hard. Most people think that their problems are not big enough for counseling and wait 8 years or more to reach out for help. At Compass Counseling we know that we all have mental health and you want to feel good about yourself and your relationships. Over the past 8 years, we have crafted an excellent team of professionals that have served thousands of people in Western KY and we want to help you on your path to change. Our Master's level therapists will support you and teach you skills to learn to manage the overwhelm and overcome your struggle. When you leave your first session, you will feel confident & ready to start on your path change. Connect with us today at www.compasscouseling.com or click here schedule an appointment.