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Group Psychotherapy

What is humanistic group psychotherapy?

Why consider group psychotherapy instead of or in addition to individual therapy? Because it is not uncommon to experience the greatest challenges in relation to other people rather than when alone - be it with family, friends, or in work relationships. Maybe we feel shy and not dare to speak our truths. Maybe we always get into the same quarrels even though we do not intend to. Maybe we always feel misunderstood. Or maybe we would just like to improve our ways of being with others.

Compared to individual therapy, group therapy offers a unique framework in which to experience ourselves in relationship to others. In a therapy group, we benefit not only from the holding presence of a therapist, but the whole group can provide meaningful feedback for us to grow relationally. And we can offer the same benevolent attitude to the other members in the group, enabling them to grow and understand themselves better.

The model I draw on in my practice is that of humanistic group psychotherapy, especially person-centered encounter groups and Irvin Yalom’s relational group therapy. It is an unstructured group experience insofar as it is not a support group centered around a specific topic (like addiction, depression, etc). The therapist does not act as a coach teaching exercises or methods either. The focus is on growth and maturing relationally.

Each member is free to bring up what feels most important to him or her. No therapy group is the same. For each group, unique themes, insights, and dynamics emerge through the interaction of its members. The therapist acts as a facilitator of the group process, holds the space and ensures that participants relate to each other in a benevolent way. The invitation is to open oneself to the raw experience of being in relationship, to allow oneself to be touched by the presence of the other members, all the while being fully there oneself. 

Group therapy can at times be confrontational. Our usual relational patterns also show in the group. Other members might react to and point out our blind spots. Yet, when this is done in an empathic ambiance, it does not need to stop there. Whatever comes up can be explored in the immediacy of the encounter with the other members and thereby provide invaluable opportunities for growth.

Practicalities

  • Groups take place on Tuesday evenings, 6.30-8.30pm and start as soon as at least 6 people manifest their interest - contact me. 
  • Regular attendance and confidentiality are paramount in group therapy.
  • Sessions are held biweekly or monthly and a commitment to at least 5 group sessions is required. 
  • The price per session is 50€ per member. Partial reimbursements can be obtained from Belgian health insurances through a standard psychotherapy receipt.
“There is no human deed or thought that lies fully outside the experience of other people” - Irvin Yalom