Group Counselling

Group counseling consists of a group of 6-8 individuals, who interact with one or two trained group therapists and talk about issues of their concern. Members listen to each other and openly express thoughts and feelings. These interactions are helpful in increased understanding of self and others, and learn more effective ways to interact. The content of group sessions is extremely confidential and lets them talk about life experience, mid-life crisis etc with whoever they choose to have a wide perspective. Counseling is derived from the word “counsel” which literally means “give advice”. There are many times in life when we feel we desperately need someone to listen to us. This is basically what counselling is “trained psychologist who listens to you”. The purpose of counselling is to resolve issues so that one can enjoy more happiness and joy in their life. In the counselling individuals are able to explore various aspects of life and feelings and talk about issues freely and openly in a way that is rarely possible with family or friends. Group Counseling is a form of therapy which posits that people benefit from shared experience. Usually group counselling is formed on the basis of specific topics like anger management, compatibility issues etc and contribution from members of a group is valuable since all in the group might be facing similar issues while some are shy towards sharing their problems which could be picked up by the individuals.

One of the main principles behind group counseling is that at times targeting a specific problem may incur isolation hence it attempts to counteract isolation by assembling people with similar issues to resolve difficulties which are not singular to one’s problem. Also knowing other people are having the same problem is comforting to each individual. Group counseling is like a drug addict meeting and sometimes but a counsellor directed meeting where individuals meet and talk about their problems and share their problems. A counselling group generally consists of 5-8 members with 2-3 psychologists, where members meet regularly and relate to others. Group Counseling is a valuable tool for individuals to self learn and experiment different ways of behaving and behaviours. In group counseling each member controls when, what and how much they want to reveal. Group counselling offers a unique environment where individuals are able to form communities to sort each other’s problems and seek for a collective solution. We all live and work together in groups, they can provide valuable insights and characteristic settings. The group setting gives each individual an opportunity to explore their problems in depth which closely resembles their work, study and family groups. People consider group counselling more effective than private counselling largely because of cost and also helps in developing a social link which was once forgotten due to their illness. It implants a sense of respect among individuals as they help others with their illness. Group counselling boosts self esteem and confidence of individuals which helps them get more control over their life. Group members provide valuable insights about problems and are helpful in achieving a different perspective towards mental health and respective solutions.

When not to go for group counseling?
If an individual is having serious PTSD problems and suffering from physical pain or already consulting individual counseling then it’s not recommended to go for group counseling. Abandoning individual counselling for group counselling is not a good choice, especially when an individual is facing uncertainty and requires personal attention, which are difficult to be highlighted in a group setting.

When to get Group Counseling?
When an individual has acute emotional problems which generally don’t interfere with their sleep and daily activity. If one wants to develop their socio political skills and are looking for quick fix techniques which can be implemented directly to their routine, then Group counseling is a best option. In group Counseling people have realisation of not alone and their problems are not different from rest which encourages support and helps to emerge from difficulties. Our therapists always serve in the best interest of our clients if observed with chronic psychotic issues sessions will be upgraded to private sessions to ensure recovery.