Analyzing Group Therapy Techniques

Analyzing Group Therapy Techniques

Group therapy is essential in supporting individuals grappling with mental health issues like schizophrenia. It cultivates communal bonds, reduces feelings of isolation, and facilitates healing by fostering collective sharing of experiences. This paper aims to analyze a group therapy session for individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia, as portrayed in the selected video “Psychotherapy Group for Schizophrenia” by Brooke Gerber. In this regard, the utilized techniques and the therapist’s efficacy, extract insights, and explore strategies for managing disruptive participants in such sessions will be evaluated. Additionally, the paper will delve into the various stages of group therapy, examining its advantages and obstacles.

Group Therapy Techniques Demonstrated

The video session showcased various group therapy techniques. Firstly, participants engaged in a check-in phase wherein they assessed their present emotional state using a scale of 1 to 10. This facilitated the uninhibited expression of individuals’ emotions, thereby establishing the prevailing emotional ambience for the session. Secondly, participants were prompted to divulge personal instances wherein they faced difficulties about their ailment. They deliberated upon the coping strategies they had employed. This act of sharing facilitated the cultivation of peer support and self-awareness (Gerber, 2013). Thirdly, the therapist implemented a rudimentary deep-breathing exercise as a relaxation modality, which participants subsequently engaged in. Deep breathing is an effective technique for the management of anxiety and stress. Lastly, the therapist conducted a comprehensive review of the group norms, emphasizing the principles of confidentiality, respect, and punctuality. Establishing these ground rules was imperative in upholding a secure and nurturing atmosphere within the group.

Evidence from the Literature Supporting Demonstrated Techniques

The techniques showcased in the group therapy session are evidence-based practices in group therapy for individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia. Several studies and clinical guidelines substantiate the utilization of these techniques. Integrating relaxation methodologies, such as deep breathing exercises, has demonstrated considerable effectiveness in mitigating anxiety and enhancing emotional modulation among individuals with schizophrenia (Melo-Dias et al., 2019). As exemplified, sharing and employing coping strategies fosters the facilitation of social learning and furnishes a platform for individuals to cultivate their problem-solving acumen, which are indispensable facets of group therapy for this particular demographic (Malhotra & Baker, 2022). Moreover, prioritizing group norms and cultivating a structured and reverential milieu aligns harmoniously with well-established tenets of group therapy, thereby fostering a secure and conducive space wherein participants may actively partake in meaningful discourse (Novotney, 2019).

What the Therapist Did Well

Brooke, the therapist, exhibited various efficacious techniques during the session. Firstly, she fostered a sense of connection by acquainting herself and cultivating an inviting ambience. This elicited a sense of comfort among the participants. Secondly, she demonstrated active listening by attentively engaging with each participant’s narrative, validating their experiences and emotions. This demonstrated empathy and regard for their viewpoints (Gerber, 2013). Thirdly, her aptitude for facilitating was truly commendable. She adeptly facilitated the discourse, ensuring equitable participation from all attendees. Her utilization of open-ended inquiries fostered substantial dialogues. In addition, she implemented coping strategies and relaxation techniques, offering practical resources for symptom management. Lastly, she underscored the significance of upholding a structured and respectful environment by thoroughly examining the group norms.

Handling a Situation Differently

Although Brooke’s approach was generally practical, there may be circumstances where an alternative course of action is preferable. When a participant expressed feeling overwhelmed during a conversation with her neighbour, it presented an opportunity to explore and understand these emotions further. Engaging in an analysis of cognitive distortions and employing cognitive-behavioural techniques to counteract such thoughts could prove advantageous.

Insights Gained from Watching the Therapist

Observing the therapist in action provided several insights. Firstly, it underscored the importance of coping strategies such as deep breathing in managing anxiety and distress, as Algorani and Gupta (2022) emphasized. Secondly,  it underscored the efficacy of peer support and the significance of exchanging personal narratives. Listening to the experiences of others can alleviate feelings of isolation. Finally, it exemplified the capacity of group therapy to establish a sense of normalcy among participants, thereby mitigating self-stigmatization.

Leading a Difficult Group Member

Various strategies can be implemented when faced with a disruptive group member during a leadership role in a group session. To address the issue, commencing a private dialogue with the disruptive individual is advisable to gain insight into their concerns and behavior. During this conversation, it is crucial to emphasize the significance of group unity and the need to treat others with respect (Marmarosh, 2021). Additionally, if the disruption continues, it is advisable to openly confront the issue within the collective, highlighting the established norms of the group and the adverse effects of disruptive conduct on fellow members. Additionally, it is advisable to incorporate grounding techniques, such as mindfulness exercises, to assist the disruptive individual in reestablishing self-regulation. In conclusion, if disruptive behavior persists and continues to have a detrimental impact on the collective, it would be prudent to converse with the disruptive individual regarding the suitability of group therapy in their current circumstances or whether individual therapy would be a more fitting course of action.

Anticipated Phases of Group Therapy

In the formation phase, I expect participants to cautiously establish connections, with each individual hesitating to share their personal experiences. As we progress into the storming phase, I anticipate that conflicts or resistance to open up may arise as participants confront their challenges and adapt to the group dynamics. Moving further into the norming phase, I expect participants to gradually become more comfortable with the group, witnessing increased trust and cohesion among us. Finally, in the performing phase, I envision everyone actively sharing their experiences, offering mutual support, and applying coping strategies learned throughout the therapy sessions. Each phase represents a crucial step in the collective journey toward healing and recovery. We gradually evolve from guarded individuals to a cohesive, supportive community that embraces our shared experiences and strives for personal growth and well-being.

Benefits and Challenges of Group Therapy

Group therapy provides many advantages, encompassing peer support, varied perspectives, and skills acquisition. Participants experience a reduction in feelings of isolation and gain support from individuals who possess a deep understanding of their unique experiences. In addition, they acquire pragmatic coping mechanisms and problem-solving strategies. However, challenges include managing disruptive behavior, privacy concerns, and limitations in larger groups, which may restrict individual participation and attention, as American Addiction Centers (2023) emphasized.

Conclusion

Group therapy for individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia offers invaluable support and a conducive environment for healing. The techniques showcased in the video session were generally efficacious in fostering self-awareness, peer support, and relaxation. The therapist demonstrated proficiency in establishing rapport, employing active listening techniques, and facilitating meaningful discussions. The session emphasized the importance of coping strategies, peer support, and normalizing experiences. Adopting a balanced approach and implementing grounding techniques is beneficial when faced with disruptive group members. Group therapy evolves through distinct phases, each vital in fostering its participants’ personal development and healing. Despite the difficulties posed by disruptive behaviour and privacy issues, group therapy offers substantial advantages for individuals with schizophrenia. It fosters a supportive community and equips them with essential skills to effectively cope with their condition.

References

Algorani, E. B., & Gupta, V. (2022, April 28). Coping mechanisms. PubMed; StatPearls Publishing. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK559031/

American Addiction Centers. (2023). Group therapy vs. individual therapy. American Addiction Centers. https://americanaddictioncenters.org/therapy-treatment/group-individual

Gerber, B. (2013, November 21). Psychotherapy group for schizophrenia [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t8Dzus8WGqA

Malhotra, A., & Baker, J. (2022). Group therapy. PubMed; StatPearls Publishing. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK549812/

Marmarosh, C. L. (2021). Ruptures and repairs in group psychotherapy: From theory to practice. International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, 71(2), 205–223. https://doi.org/10.1080/00207284.2020.1855893

Melo-Dias, C., Lopes, R. C., Cardoso, D. F. B., Bobrowicz-Campos, E., & Apóstolo, J. L. A. (2019). Schizophrenia and progressive muscle relaxation – A systematic review of effectiveness. Heliyon, 5(4), e01484. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2019.e01484

Novotney, A. (2019, April). Keys to great group therapy. American Psychological Association. https://www.apa.org/monitor/2019/04/group-therapy

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In a 3- to 4-page paper, identify the video you selected and address the following:
What group therapy techniques were demonstrated? How well do you believe these techniques were demonstrated?
What evidence from the literature supports the techniques demonstrated?
What did you notice that the therapist did well?
Explain something that you would have handled differently.
What is an insight that you gained from watching the therapist handle the group therapy?
Now imagine you are leading your own group session. How would you go about handling a difficult situation with a disruptive group member? How would you elicit participation in your group? What would you anticipate finding in the different phases of group therapy? What do you see as the benefits and challenges of group therapy?
Support your reasoning with at least three peer-reviewed, evidence-based sources, and explain why each of your supporting sources is considered scholarly. Attach the PDFs of your sources.