Forming and being part of groups is a natural inclination that satisfies our need to belong. From inclusion in groups, we gain insight and understanding about ourselves and others. Groups also help us define our social identities and achieve goals while allowing us to provide and receive support. When group members work together cohesively, everyone succeeds. All of these societal benefits of groups also apply to group therapy. At Rose Hill Center, we offer group therapy as part of our residential rehabilitation services. To find out more call us at 866.367.0220.
Group Therapy as Part of Inpatient Mental Health Treatment
Inpatient mental health treatment provides intensive treatment in a safe and secure environment, with 24-hour access to care. Inpatient or residential treatment is proven to be successful in treating a wide range of mental health disorders. A key benefit is that patients can remove themselves from the daily stressors that may have been contributing to their problems and place their focus solely on their recovery.
At Rose Hill Center, group therapy is part of patients’ overall individualized treatment plan. Understandably, many people feel intimidated by the thought of sharing private feelings and experiences with a group of strangers. From our years of experience, we know that this fear quickly passes and that group members often form strong bonds. Knowing what to expect from inpatient psychiatric therapy can help alleviate fears.
What to Expect in Group Therapy
Group therapy sessions are led by one or more qualified therapists and have anywhere from three to twelve members. Most groups meet once or twice weekly and are between one and two hours long. Patients sit in a circle facing one another to promote open communication and underscore that all group members are equals. Group members introduce themselves and state why they are in the group. Each group session usually focuses on a particular goal or subject. Typical topics of group therapy can include:
- Domestic violence or abuse
- Eating disorders
- Anger management
- Divorce
- Grief and loss
- Anxiety
Group sessions can follow a formal plan or an open dialog format where members can share at will. A significant benefit of group therapy is that it allows therapists to observe how patients interact in social situations, giving them the insight they might not gain from individual counseling. With this information, they can provide better guidance and feedback for behavioral change.
Who Can Benefit From a Group Therapy Service?
Therapy is an integral part of mental health treatment. At Rose Hill Center, group therapy is part of your comprehensive treatment plan that also includes individual counseling and medication therapy where indicated. Different groups will meet for different numbers of sessions. Some groups are open, meaning that anyone is welcome, while others are closed, meaning they are designed for a particular group of patients.
Participation in group therapy helps patients solve problems, build trust, and develop better communication and social skills. Many who suffer from mental health disorders feel isolated and alone in their thoughts and feelings. Group therapy lets people know that they are not alone and teaches them how to relate to others with similar problems. Group members serve as role models and learn from one another’s experiences and points of view.
Years of research on group therapy show that it is highly effective at treating a variety of mental health disorders including, but not limited to:
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Bipolar disorder
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Anxiety and panic disorders
- Depression
Group therapy provides a safe place for patients to explore aspects of their mental health disorder that they might not otherwise. Groups are usually the most effective when members share common difficulties.
Learn More at Rose Hill Center
At Rose Hill Center, we offer residential mental health treatment in Michigan and we provide a safe and supportive environment for those struggling with the challenges of mental health. Residential care has proven to be highly effective in treating individuals suffering from mental health conditions. To learn more about the benefits of inpatient psychiatric group therapy as part of a comprehensive, holistic approach to treating mental illness, call us today at 866.367.0220.