What is group therapy?

Group therapy takes place with a wider group of patients, who are all experiencing similar mental health problems or who have similar diagnoses to you. We are able to deliver group therapy sessions at our Priory sites, facilitated by our expert therapists, and during sessions you will be encouraged to share your experiences with other group members, offer mutual support and guidance, and learn from each other in a highly supportive and compassionate environment. This form of therapy is evidence-based, with proven results, and has been found to be highly effective in the treatment of a wide range of mental health challenges including depression, anxiety, stress, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), addictions and eating disorders. Group therapy can also be used in the treatment of young people who are struggling with mental health problems and need help with mental health recovery. 

When is group therapy used at Priory?

Group therapy forms a major part of the treatment process at Priory, and allows patients to share experiences and learn from each other in a safe environment. This format of therapy is offered as part of Priory’s comprehensive mental health inpatient treatment programmes, and also forms the basis of our intensive, residential Addiction Treatment Programmes. Group therapy can also take place during day care and outpatient treatment at Priory, depending on your unique needs and requirements.

We are also able to offer a variety of therapy types that can take place in a group therapy format, which include cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT) and schema focused therapy.

At Priory, our group therapy sessions can be valuable for individuals who struggle to express their feelings and needs with others. Group members are encouraged to share their experiences and insights in a supportive and trusting environment. This offers individuals different perspectives on problems relating to mental health and addiction and also provides opportunities to receive feedback and support from other members of the group. This experience supports individuals to develop greater self-awareness and understanding of their own personal challenges.

Some people may find the thought of discussing their life experiences with a group of strangers to be quite daunting. However, we will ensure that you are given enough time to get to know your peers and hear their experiences, allowing you to build a level of trust. Participation in our group sessions often helps individuals to realise that they are not alone and this experience develops a sense of strength, closeness and support between group members.

What does a typical group therapy session look like?

Group therapy sessions usually consist of between 6 – 12 patients and are facilitated by a therapist and a co-therapist. Each session typically lasts for between one and a half, to two and a half hours, with a break in the middle.

The frequency, number of sessions and the type of therapy that is used within a group therapy programme, depends on the mental health problems that you are struggling with, as well as your unique needs and requirements.