What is Group Psychotherapy?
 
Group offers some advantages over individual therapy, although often both combined is most effective.  Group is particularly useful in helping you learn through interaction with others. You then will have an opportunity to learn how to get more of what you want in relationships - more intimacy or closeness in personal relationships, more effectiveness in work or business relationships, and an improved relationship with yourself, that is, more self-confidence. 
 
Group is experiential and builds authenticity
In individual therapy we often talk about things going on in your life, but outside the room.  In group, the same patterns that come up in your outside relationships will emerge.  We then have an opportunity to intervene "in the moment" to help you better understand your internal experience (thoughts and feelings) and find behavior that will work better for you.
 
Group is safe and confidential
Group is safe and confidential and provided with guidance and support.  Members are not pressured to participate before they are ready.  Most are anxious at first, but are increasingly at ease as time passes, and come to look forward to group. 
 
Why join a therapy group?
*  for more intimate personal relationships
*  for more effective work relationships - to "make a good impression," get more cooperation and advance in your career
*  to learn how to express yourself more fully and spontaneously
*  to reduce inhibitions, shyness, social anxiety, loneliness
*  to learn how to manage anger more effectively (alternatives to "stuffing it" or exploding)
*  to learn how to say "no" or, stop letting people walk all over you
*  learn how to get your voice heard, and your needs met
*  end co-dependency
 
Pre-screening is required
Group is most effective for people who have learned the ability to reflect on their own thoughts, feelings, and beliefs, have the ability to listen to and make use of feedback and have a willingness to change.  This usually means having some previous experience with individual psychotherapy, or other personal development work. 
 
Barbara Elbl, MFT, CEAP, CGP
Marriage and Family Therapist Ca Lic #33788
Certified Employee Assistance Provider (EACC #028021)
Certified Group Psychotherapist (AGPA)
EMDR practitioner
Substance Abuse Professional
 
4333 California Street
San Francisco, CA 94118
 
415-681-1757
 
Call now for a free brief assessment
 
 
 
 
EDUCATION CENTER
    What is Psychotherapy?
    What is Counseling/Brief therapy?
    What is EMDR?
    What is (psychological) Trauma?
    What is Group Psychotherapy?
    How do you find a good therapist?
 
 
 
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