Group Psychotherapy: Key Strategies for Cohesiveness

Topic: Professional Psychology
Words: 630 Pages: 2
Table of Contents

Introduction

In group psychotherapy, the overall behavior is an important aspect to consider. For example, in the four vignettes retrieved from the film Understanding Group Psychotherapy, it was evident that the group showed a gradual increase in cohesiveness. At the beginning of Vignette 1, a lack of cohesiveness was observed since the members of the group did not know each other. As Darlene, one of the members, mentioned, “I thought, I was gonna be with a bunch of crazies, you know” (Yalom, 2006a, 10:10). However, with time, the audience observes how the group becomes not only cohesive but supportive, such as when the members were discussing the disturbing behavior of Dan.

Discussion

Throughout the film, several consistent group strategies were observed in all vignettes. For example, one strategy is based on facilitating group cohesion through icebreakers, which can be observed in Vignette 1 when Irv Yalom inquired about first impressions of each other (Yalom, 2006a). Moreover, in the same part, the strategy of encouragement to share experiences and opinions is evident, with the psychiatrist asking questions, such as “Anybody has any thoughts about that?” (Yalom, 2006a, 10:10). With such an approach, the psychiatrist invites members to the discussion.

The third strategy involves reflective listening, meaning that every member was respectful to letting others speak and offered support, such as in Vignette 4, where everybody supported Allen when he came out as bisexual (Yalom, 2006b). Bob even asked questions to teach him what this meant and what his preferences were in such sexual orientation, meaning that there was a sign that everybody was eager to understand each other better (Yalom, 2006b). Finally, the fourth strategy involves open-ended questions, which is evident in Vignette 4 as well. While trying to be more aware of Allen’s orientation and delving deeper, Yalom asked questions, such as “What kind of experience is that has that been for you?” (Yalom, 2006b, 27:00). Consequently, these strategies facilitate communication and the building of trust and understanding.

The group therapy strategies that were observed in the vignettes can be applied to a group for substance use disorders as well. For example, the mentioned strategies can be used to navigate members in relapse prevention, address triggers and stressors, and explore the impact of substance use on relationships (Corey, 2022). However, if there were other conditions involved, such as gambling disorder or co-occurring mental disorders, modifications would be required. To help the members of the group, additional strategies that focus on coping skills will have to be present (Pollard & Jakubec, 2022).

Moreover, after gaining more insights into the group processes, it is important to remember about modifications to the group rules. For instance, establishing clear guidelines for attendance, confidentiality, and participation is essential for successful group therapy (Corey, 2022). Without these rules, members would not understand the expectations and not see the boundaries. If there are issues concerning the maintenance of the guidelines, a facilitator would have to intervene (Corey, 2022). Here, it can be an optimal decision to guide the members to explore their feelings related to the issue.

Conclusion

The last point to consider is connected to the closing and opening of the therapy session. When it comes to the opening of the session, the psychotherapist will have to clearly outline the issue and the topic that will be discussed (Pollard & Jakubec, 2022). Moreover, as mentioned, guidelines and rules will need to be highlighted and reviewed. In contrast, toward the end of the sessions, a therapist will need to summarize the key points of the session and invite the members to reflect on what they learned, saw as beneficial, or might want to suggest for further sessions. Overall, it can be seen that group therapy is a complex process that is focused on dynamics and personal input.

References

Corey, G. (2022). Theory and practice of group counseling. Cengage Learning.

Pollard, C. L., & Jakubec, S. L. (2022). Varcarolis’s Canadian psychiatric mental health nursing. Elsevier Health Sciences.

Yalom, I. (Director). (2006a). Understanding group psychotherapy: Outpatients, Part 1 [Video]. Psychotherapy. Web.

Yalom, I. (Director). (2006b). Understanding group psychotherapy: Outpatients, Part 2 [Video]. Psychotherapy. Web.

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