Comparing Individual and Group Therapy: Which is Best?
Overcoming adversity in life can be a difficult process, one that can often benefit from outside assistance. Different forms of therapy can aid in addressing numerous mental and emotional challenges, from substance abuse problems to social disorders. Before pursuing treatment, it’s important to make certain considerations, including comparing individual and group therapy. Which of the two methods is more effective? Can specific patients derive greater benefits from one setting compared to the other? It’s important to examine these questions before committing to one particular form of treatment.
Defining the Differences
The cardinal difference between individual and group therapy can be found in the names themselves; the former approach describes a scenario wherein a single patient receives treatment, typically from one therapist. In group settings, numerous individuals meet to discuss a shared difficulty, generally under the guidance of one or two trained therapists. Group therapy is not considered to be the same as family therapy or couples therapy. Generally, individuals in group therapy do not know one another.
Each approach provides its own unique benefits and drawbacks, any of which can vary based on the specific purpose of treatment.
Why Group Therapy Works
For many people, there are distinct advantages of group therapy over individual therapy. Here are 3 benefits of group therapy that can help someone decide if this type of therapy is right for them.
Indirect focus
For those who find one-to-one interactions uncomfortable, or feel that such a therapeutic relationship would put them on the spot, groups can provide a less intimidating environment. Groups can make it difficult for everyone to receive direct intervention.
Collective support
Research shows that many people find comfort when discussing difficulties and disorders that they have in common with others. This can lessen feelings of isolation or diminished personal worth because the individual knows that they are not alone in their struggle. Group therapy can provide an ongoing support network.
Give and take
Patients seek therapy for the purpose of personal recovery, although one of the foremost benefits of group treatment often is the opportunity to provide support to others. Assisting one’s peers can help someone to grow personally and develop a more positive outlook on their own situation. It can also feel empowering, and it can help someone develop confidence in their own coping skills.
When Individual Therapy May be Ideal
While group therapy can be effective for many people, it certainly isn’t the only option available. For some, it may not even be the preferable option. Here are just 3 reasons that some may prefer prefer individual intervention.
Level of attention
Some people may have circumstances in which individual therapy may be ideal. Despite the benefits, groups are simply unable to provide the same level of direct attention as in an individualized therapeutic setting. Some individuals simply prefer a one-on-one interaction.
Confidentiality
Confidentiality is naturally of greater concern when more people are involved. While group therapy has confidentiality rules, some individuals may not feel comfortable sharing in front of others. This can make it difficult to achieve tangible progress, as communication and participation are essential to success in the group therapy setting.
Schedule
With group therapy, options to choose a day and time may be based on the therapist and other factors outside of the individuals’ control. Sessions need to be accessible to many people. Alternatively, individual therapy may provide clients with more control of their therapy schedule and frequency.
While it’s important to compare both types of therapy, keep in mind that a singular therapeutic approach doesn’t have to be someone's only option; they may benefit from both types of therapy. It's always best to consider trying both options to see which is best.
Sources:
https://www.apa.org/helpcenter/group-therapy.aspx
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/groups
https://www.goodtherapy.org/learn-about-therapy/modes/group-therapy
https://www.goodtherapy.org/learn-about-therapy/modes/individual-therapy
https://www.pyramidhealthcarepa.com/the-optimal-group-therapy-setting/
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