When it comes to your mental health, the importance of authentic connection and feeling understood are paramount. Whether you're facing a major life change, managing chronic stress, or seeking personal growth, group therapy offers a unique space for healing and building self-awareness. Among the various forms of group therapy, process-oriented groups stand out because they include a specialized focus and help address common dynamics and emotions shared by members.
But, what exactly are process-oriented groups, and what makes them so effective? In this blog post, we’ll dive into the various types of support groups and the specific benefits of process-oriented support groups.
Types of groups
Nearly all types of support groups are valuable and these groups can range from informal gatherings to highly facilitated groups. Some are led by therapists, while others are led by a peer or someone who has been through experiences similar to what the group is enduring (which is a typical approach in AA groups, for example). While most groups used to be offered in-person, many groups are now offered remotely through online and telehealth platforms, increasing accessibility for many. Various types of groups exist and can help, based on your needs and situation. These groups include:
Educational Groups
Educational groups include structured sessions focused on sharing specific knowledge and are often led by professionals. For example, an ADHD skills group for adults might focus on strategies for managing attention and organization. They usually go for a set number of weeks, but could be drop-in in nature.
Skills-Based Groups
Similar to educational groups, but with a stronger emphasis on practicing specific skills, skills-based groups might focus on social skills or coping strategies. These are typically facilitated by therapists and might include role-playing or other types of hands-on practice. These groups involve a set number of weeks, and in some cases, each week they address a specific aspect of the skill being learned.
Support Groups
General support groups are probably the type of group that most people think of when they think of a support group. They can be member or peer-led, such as with Alcoholic-Anonymous and other 12-step program groups, in which the peers leading that group also benefit from the group support. These groups don’t have an attendance requirement, but it is encouraged to come as often as is needed.
Another type of support group is led by a former member who is still technically a peer because they have similar experiences as the other participants in the group. These group leaders are usually further along in their own process and possibly have some additional non-professional or paraprofessional training in how to facilitate a group. An example of this is a grief group at a local church and attendance is usually for a 6-12 week period.
Another type of support group is led by a trained therapist who specializes in the topic area of the group. Examples of this include postpartum support groups, parenting groups, pregnancy loss groups, and fertility support groups, to name a few. These groups may have an attendance expectation or they may be drop-in as needed.
Process Groups
Originating from the work of Irvin Yalom, these groups aren’t centered on a specific topic but instead explore the interpersonal processes between members. Members usually want to gain insight into relational patterns that contribute to them feeling stuck, unsatisfied in their relationships, or wanting to strengthen their ability to go deeper in their relationships. A trained therapist guides the group as members interact and reflect on their shared dynamics. These groups involve an attendance commitment due to consistent participation being a part of how the group works.
Process-Oriented Groups
A specialized form of process groups, these often focus on a particular issue, such as divorce or relationship challenges. While the group members often share a common theme, the core work revolves around processing what emerges in the here-and-now interactions members are having in the group, with guidance from a skilled therapist.
An example of the here-and-now interactions that would be explored is a member struggling with addressing difficult feelings with other group members. This type of interaction often reflects how that person might struggle with addressing conflict with people in their life - such as with an ex spouse in discussing co-parenting matters - and working through it in the group can provide practice for being able to address it outside of group.,
Like process groups, process-oriented groups have an attendance expectation, such as a minimum of 12 weeks. This gives group members an opportunity to settle into the group, moving past initial discomfort that can arise in the beginning. There is typically an option to continue in the group after the initial commitment, and then, similar to process groups, there is a dedicated ending group or process for members - called termination in the therapy world.
The benefits of process-oriented group therapy
There are numerous benefits to joining a process-oriented support group and oftentimes joining this type of group can lead to more satisfactory outcomes than other types of groups - due to the intentionality and purpose of the group. Other common benefits include:
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Feeling understood and less alone
In a process-oriented group, members often realize that their struggles, fears, and feelings are shared by others - and there is intentional space created to process it. This can be incredibly validating, particularly if members didn’t previously fully understand what they were going through. Knowing that others "get it" can reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness while navigating something difficult.
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Getting insight into interpersonal behaviors
The real-time nature of process-oriented groups allows members to observe and reflect on their interactions with others. By exploring these dynamics with the help of a therapist, individuals can gain valuable insights into their own behavioral patterns, engage in self-reflection, and learn how they can better relate to others.
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Learning from others’ experiences
Group members bring diverse perspectives and experiences to the table. By listening to others' stories and challenges, participants can learn new ways of coping and gain different perspectives on their own situations. This shared wisdom can be a powerful tool for personal growth. While group members may share a common issue or theme, their individual differences can highlight various experiences of a similar situation (such as in cases of divorce, death or a family member, or becoming a parent). This diversity can help participants see their situation from different angles and deepen their understanding of themselves and others.
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Receiving expert facilitation by a trained therapist
One of the key strengths of process-oriented groups is the presence of a trained therapist who guides the discussion. This professional helps members explore and reflect on their relationship dynamics. A therapist can also help participants move forward from stuck situations, facilitating growth and healing.
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Practicing new skills
Process-oriented groups provide a safe environment to practice new interpersonal skills. Whether it's speaking up for your feelings, setting boundaries, or engaging in constructive conflict, the group can serve as a practice ground where members can experiment with and refine their relational skills. This could happen through role play or candid feedback from other members of the group, along with the therapist.
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Improved relationships outside the group
The insights and skills gained in process-oriented group therapy don’t just stay within the group; the goal of the group is to significantly improve participants' relationships outside the group. By understanding and altering their interpersonal dynamics, members can foster healthier, more satisfying connections in their daily lives.
Process-oriented group therapy offers a unique blend of support, insight, and skill-building that can lead to profound personal growth. Whether you’re dealing with a specific issue like divorce or coparenting, or simply seeking to improve your relationships, these groups provide a powerful space for exploration and transformation. If you’re considering group therapy, a process-oriented approach might be the key to unlocking new perspectives and deeper connections.
Learn more about our process-oriented divorce group at Center for Shared Insight and contact us if you are interested in exploring how this group might help you move through a recent divorce.
