Group psychotherapy

Group psychotherapy is a form of psychotherapy in which one or more therapists treat a small group of clients together as a group. The term can legitimately refer to any form of psychotherapy when delivered in a group format, including cognitive behavioural therapy or interpersonal therapy, but it is usually applied to psychodynamic group therapy where the group context and group process is explicitly utilised as a mechanism of change by developing, exploring and examining interpersonal relationships within the group.

History

The concept of group therapy was first proposed by Joseph Hersey Pratt, a Boston physician who started using this method for tuberculosis patients. Later, psychiatrists started using the method for psychoanalysis and it was popularized by Jacob L. Moreno in the early 20th century, who coined the term "group psychotherapy" to describe the treatment of patients within the social context of a group.

Types of Group Psychotherapy

There are several types of group psychotherapy, including:

• Supportive-Expressive Group Therapy: This type of therapy focuses on the expression of emotions and thoughts, and the support of other group members.

• Cognitive Behavioral Group Therapy: This type of therapy focuses on changing negative thought patterns and behaviors.

• Interpersonal Group Psychotherapy: This type of therapy focuses on improving interpersonal relationships and social skills.

• Psychodynamic Group Psychotherapy: This type of therapy focuses on uncovering unconscious thoughts and feelings.

Benefits of Group Psychotherapy

Group psychotherapy can provide numerous benefits, such as providing a support network, helping to put problems into perspective, and providing a safe haven for the expression of feelings. It can also help individuals develop new ways of relating to others.

See Also

• Psychotherapy
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
• Interpersonal Therapy
• Psychodynamic Therapy