Group therapy provides a unique chance to learn and develop skills in a supportive environment guided by an expert. Peer support and shared experiences offer valuable insights, fostering a sense of belonging and understanding.
The Benefits of Group Therapy
One of the key advantages of group therapy is the opportunity for individuals to connect with others who are facing similar challenges. By sharing their experiences and listening to others’ stories, participants realize they are not alone in their struggles. This sense of belonging and shared understanding fosters a supportive and empathetic environment where individuals can find solace and validation.
In group therapy, individuals learn from one another, expanding their understanding and promoting personal growth. Feedback and support from peers offer alternative perspectives, challenge distorted thinking, and provide constructive suggestions for change. The group setting also serves as a social laboratory for interpersonal skill development, allowing participants to improve communication, assertiveness, and conflict resolution skills. This acquired knowledge can be applied to relationships outside of therapy, enhancing social functioning.
Group therapy can be tailored to different therapeutic approaches, such as psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Relapse prevention, Psychoeducation, and even Self-Help styles. This versatility allows for a customized experience based on the specific needs and goals of the participants. For decades, group therapy has been recognized as a standard of care in mental health settings due to its effectiveness in fostering psychological and emotional growth.
Additionally, group therapy offers a cost-effective alternative to individual therapy. Participants benefit from the therapist’s expertise and guidance while sharing the cost with other group members. This affordability makes therapy more accessible to a wider range of individuals who may not have the financial means to pursue individual therapy.
It is important to note that group therapy operates with its own contracts and consents, which may differ from individual counseling settings. At our center, we prioritize the safety, privacy, and personal development of each participant. We maintain strict confidentiality protocols to create a secure environment where individuals can comfortably share and explore their concerns.
In-Person Group Therapy in Pittsburgh and Online Group Therapy
Group therapy can be conducted in various formats to accommodate different needs and circumstances. Traditionally, group therapy sessions take place in person, allowing participants to engage face-to-face and establish meaningful connections. In-person group therapy offers the opportunity for nonverbal communication, physical presence, and immediate interpersonal interactions.
However, online group therapy offers convenience, flexibility, and eliminates geographical barriers, allowing individuals from different regions to join the same therapy group. Online group therapy also provides an additional layer of anonymity, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals who may feel more comfortable discussing personal topics from the privacy of their own space. It can reduce the perceived stigma associated with seeking therapy and create a sense of safety for those who may be hesitant to attend in-person sessions.
Whether in person or virtual, group therapy retains its core benefits. Participants still have the opportunity to connect with others, share experiences, and gain insights and perspectives from fellow group members. The supportive environment and expert guidance remain intact, fostering personal growth, and emotional well-being.
DBT Skills Group for Wellbeing and Growth
Are you seeking practical skills to enhance your emotional well-being and improve your interpersonal relationships? Look no further than our DBT Skills Group, where Dialectical Behavioral Therapy is presented in a class-like format that combines psychoeducation and engaging activities.
Throughout this 10-week DBT Group, we will focus on developing and strengthening essential skills in four key areas: mindfulness, distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness, and emotion regulation
This in-person DBT Skills Group occurs every Monday from 7-8pm starting October 14, 2024 for 10 weeks. It takes place at our Monroeville location.
Group therapy is a unique opportunity to gain skills and new behaviors with the benefit of an expert-led experience while being accelerated through the lens of social learning that can only come from peer support. Group formats have been used to successfully manage a variety of mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety.
Online Positive Co Parenting Counseling Group
Are you looking for positive parenting classes to fulfill a court order? Our comprehensive Online Positive Co Parenting Counseling Group offers specialized online group therapy aimed at enhancing the co parenting relationship and is designed to meet legal requirements for court ordered parenting classes.
Counseling and Wellness Center of Pittsburgh’s Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist is an expert in co parenting dynamics and will work with you and your co parent to address conflicts, develop effective communication strategies, and create a healthier and more cooperative co parenting dynamic.
Using the effective tool of online group therapy, these court ordered parenting classes seek to change the way you think about co parenting. Through education and relating group members, you will gain the tools, insights, and connections that will ultimately contribute to overall family harmony.
đź“…Â Mondays for 8 weeks
đź•• 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM
📆 October 14 – December 16
đź’» Online group therapy
⚖️ Court ordered co parenting classes
Facilitated by Director of Family Counseling Angel Pratt (they/them), LMFT, their mission is to create and deliver parenting classes for court and support to the families and couples that need them the most.
Group Therapy FAQs
Q: What if the group doesn’t fit my specific needs?
A: Our group therapy sessions are designed to address a wide range of relationship issues, and our experienced facilitators ensure that everyone’s needs are met. The structure of the sessions allows for personalized insights and tools that can be applied to your unique situation.
Q: How will the time be managed so that everyone has a chance to speak?
A: Facilitators are skilled in managing group dynamics to ensure balanced participation. They guide discussions in a way that allows everyone to share without feeling like they are taking up too much space. This ensures a supportive environment where all voices are heard.
Q: What if I feel like I'm burdening others with my issues?
A: Group therapy is a space where everyone is there to support one another. Sharing your experiences can be beneficial not just for you, but for others who might be going through similar situations. Facilitators ensure that the group remains a safe and supportive environment for all.
Q: I tend to vent a lot. How will this be handled in the group?
A: It’s perfectly okay to vent in group therapy. Facilitators ensure that venting is balanced with constructive feedback and support from other members. This approach helps you feel heard while also working towards deeper insights and effective coping strategies. The group setting allows for sharing your feelings and experiences in a safe space, while also receiving empathy and understanding from others who might be facing similar challenges.
Q: I worry about wanting to give advice but not having the skills to do so.
A: Group therapy is an excellent opportunity to practice listening and validating others without feeling the need to solve their problems. Facilitators guide the group in developing these skills, fostering empathy and understanding.
Q: How can I benefit from listening to others' issues?
A: Listening to others can provide new perspectives and insights that you might not have considered. It can also help you feel less alone in your struggles and offer practical strategies that have worked for others.
Q: What if I don’t feel comfortable sharing my personal issues in a group?
A: It’s normal to feel hesitant about sharing personal issues. However, many find that the supportive and non-judgmental environment of group therapy helps them open up over time. You can share at your own pace and comfort level.
Interested in Group Therapy in Pittsburgh or Online Group Therapy?
If we aren’t currently offering group therapy that interests you, let us know by contacting us at 412-856-WELL or filling out the contact form below.
Previous Group Therapy in Pittsburgh and Online
Virtual: Hormones and Women’s Mental Health Support Group
Virtual: Hormones and Women’s Mental Health Support Group invites you every Thursday from 7 pm to 8 pm for 6 weeks. The best part—you don’t have to be located in Pittsburgh because our Women’s Mental Health Support Group is held virtually and welcomes participants from the entire state of Pennsylvania. The online support group runs from March 28, 2024 to May 2, 2024.
Facilitated by Edvina May, LPC, NCC an experienced professional in hormonal health and women’s mental health, with a particular dedication to promoting hormone balance for women inspired by her personal journey towards achieving hormonal health.
Jennifer Richards, CRNP, PHMNP-BC, FNP-BC, our esteemed guest facilitator, will be part of the online support group, offering her expertise in prescribing hormone testing for women and vitamin lab scripts. Her holistic approach to wellness emphasizes the mind-body connection, ensuring comprehensive care for all participants.
Join our six-week Virtual: Hormones and Women’s Mental Health Support Group to gain not only a comprehensive understanding of hormonal health but also a personalized plan for navigating the intricate relationship between hormone balance for women and overall well-being.
Online Group Therapy for Young Adults & College Students
Group Therapy for Young Adults & College Students invites you every Monday from 7 pm to 8 pm for 6 weeks. The best part—you don’t have to be located in Pittsburgh because our young adult support group is held virtually and welcomes participants from the entire state of Pennsylvania. The online support group runs from March 11, 2024 to April 15, 2024.
Facilitated by Rachel Taylor, LPC, who brings over 17 years of experience and a special affinity for Gen Z, this online group therapy covers diverse topics including:Â
- Decisions in your college years
- Maintaining friendships
- Managing mood disorders or anxiety
- Addressing loneliness
- Effective time management
- Balancing studies with free time
- Navigating dating and romantic relationships
Take this step towards greater well-being, where your voice is heard, your experiences are validated, and your unique journey is celebrated. Join our online group therapy for young adults and college students—a space where connection, growth, and support converge.
Fall Teen Writing Group Therapy
Are you a 14-17 year old high school student looking to explore the power of writing and storytelling in a supportive and creative environment? If so, you’ve come to the right place! The Teen Writing Group is a Narrative Therapy and Psychoeducational group designed to help you navigate the challenges of adolescence through the art of writing.
This Group Therapy for Teenagers occurs every Monday from 6pm – 7pm, starting September 25 and spanning 8 weeks. The final session will take place on November 13. You can find us at our Monroeville location, situated at 2539 Monroeville Blvd, Monroeville, PA 15146. Join us at this convenient location as we embark on an empowering journey of self-expression and personal growth through the art of writing.
Group leader, Rachel Taylor, LPC, NBCC, has been creating and facilitating groups for adolescents and adults for the past 9 years. With her extensive experience, Rachel understands the unique needs of teenagers and is passionate about providing a safe and trusting space for young individuals to express themselves.
Our weekly sessions will be filled with engaging activities, discussions, and writing exercises that will inspire and empower you to express yourself through words. This group offers a safe space for you to connect with like-minded peers and explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences through writing.
Group Therapy for Depression
This in-person Group Therapy for Depression occurs every Sunday from 2pm – 3pm starting March 26, 2023 for 6 weeks. The final session is May 7, 2023. It takes place at our Pittsburgh location.
Group therapy is a unique opportunity to gain skills and new behaviors with the benefit of an expert-led experience while being accelerated through the lens of social learning that can only come from peer support. Group formats have been used to successfully manage a variety of mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety.
Group Therapy for Teenagers: Addressing Grief Through Literature
This VIRTUAL Group Therapy for Teenagers occurs every Wednesday from 6pm – 7pm starting April 19 for 4 weeks. The final session is May 10, 2023. It takes place virtually.
Goal of Addressing Grief through Literature Teen Group Therapy:
- Explore and process feelings of grief
- Identify coping skills to deal with grief
- Identify how relationships can be maintained even after the death of a loved one
- Identify grief rituals
- Decrease isolation surrounding grief
Group Therapy for Depression
This in-person Group Therapy for Depression occurs every Tuesday from 6pm – 7pm starting October 4, 2022 for 6 weeks. The final session is November 8, 2022. It takes place at our Pittsburgh location.
Learn about Depression and Anxiety and why we respond the way we do; Develop skills to manage emotions; Develop and maintain a non judgmental stance including kindness and forgiveness.
Group Therapy for Teenagers: Teen Art Group
This in-person Group Therapy for Teenagers occurs every Monday from 6pm – 7pm starting September 26, 2022 for 8 weeks. The final session is November 14, 2022. It takes place at our Monroeville location.
Teen Group Therapy: Teen Art Group will help teens learn Social Skills, Depression Coping Skills, Anxiety Strategies, and How to Handle Anger all within the context of making art.