Group therapy is a form of psychotherapy in which a group of patients meets for several sessions under the guidance and direction of a mental health therapist (called a conductor, leader or facilitator).

During a typical group therapy session, patients are encouraged to discuss their problems as openly and honestly as possible and provide feedback to each other. A typical session, which can last from 75 to 90 minutes, generally consists of a group of up to 12 patients.

Group therapy may be practiced in a variety of settings including a therapist’s office or outpatient mental health facility. It may also be incorporated while a patient is receiving inpatient psychiatric care.

Groups usually meet weekly, and the duration of therapy may vary. For some patients, group therapy can last for a few months, whereas others may attend group therapy for a few years. The frequency and duration of group therapy often depend on many factors, including the severity of the patients’ conditions and/or problems as well as the results sought by the therapist.

Some issues that may be addressed during group therapy include:

• Emotional disorders or mental illnesses, including:
  
• • Major depression
  • Bipolar disorder
  • Anxiety disorders
  • Eating disorders
  • Substance abuse and/or drug dependence
    
    
• Problems with interpersonal relationships (e.g., marital problems)
  
• The loss of a loved one (grief)
  
• Chronic illnesses (e.g., cancer)

Generally, therapists apply the principles and techniques of other types of psychotherapy during group therapy. These can include:

• Cognitive behavior therapy
• Psychodynamic psychotherapy
• Interpersonal therapy

Group therapy differs from support groups and self-help groups in that it always involves a mental health professional who selects members of a group who may or may not have a condition in common. Support groups and self-help groups, on the other hand, usually have a common theme (e.g., recently divorced people) and they may be led by the members themselves or by a professional counselor.

Patients can benefit from group therapy because it provides them with an environment in which they can share their problems, views and concerns with one another and develop insight into their own situations. Group therapy can also help patients improve their interpersonal skills and learn different ways to cope with their problems.