Cherry, Anne-Marie and Brian are all ‘group analysts’ so, in addition to individual training, have developed skills in working with people in groups.  But why would someone want to join a therapy group?  Isn’t individual therapy ‘better’.  Well, I think they would say, joining a group is ‘different’ but it is still therapy.  People often feel daunted by the prospect of group therapy.  Group therapies tend to be portrayed in very dramatic ways in films, when in reality groups develop as safe places to build trust in others and work through problems using the group as a vehicle for understanding our relationships ‘in the outside world.’

Therapy groups typically come together under the leadership of a trained group therapist to work on improving lives.  For people who struggle with relationships and intimacy, who feel alone and isolated, a group is a wonderful place to increase a real sense of belonging that counters social isolation, and learn ways to make and improve relationships ‘outside’ the group.  Groups rely less of the therapist having all the answers, which helps us develop autonomy and independence, by giving voice to everyone’s ideas.  For someone who is depressed, realizing they can still help others in a group can start to facilitate change.  As such, groups are rich environments for hope and optimism, and of course, finding your voice.

Of course, challenging ourselves in a group environment is not without its own set of anxieties.  But where better to learn what might be underneath our social anxieties and fears of ‘revealing’ ourselves.  In a safe environment, where the group therapists holds and contains strong feelings for the group, this safety net makes it possible to start ‘experimenting’ and giving voice to things that matter.  And that really can start the process of better relationships and understanding of the social context in which we all live.