The Benefits of Talk Therapy and Group Therapy

When you are experiencing a mental health disorder, taking the first step in getting help is brave and great for your health. However, with so many different forms of treatment out there, it can be hard to decide which treatment programs and options are right for you. Deciding between talk therapy and group therapy can also be a tough decision.

Knowing that there is help despite what you may be experiencing is the first step in getting treatment. Talking to your doctor or a licensed medical professional, such as the ones at Alter Wellness Care, can go a long way to getting you the help you need. 

If you are looking into a traditional form of treatment or an outpatient program, you will have the option of attending talk therapy or going into group therapy. Both have their individual benefits. You do not, however, have to decide on which works for you right away or alone. There are people there is help you figure out which form of therapy will work better for you and your mental health condition.

What Is Talk Therapy?

Psychotherapy is more commonly known today as talk therapy. It is the traditional form of therapy that takes the form of a therapist and patient privately. When you are in talk therapy, you talk directly with your therapist one-on-one. You establish a unique patient-to-therapist relationship in which you confide in them confidentially. 

The Benefits of Talk Therapy

There are multiple benefits of attending talk therapy. Some of these benefits include being able to work on your condition through different forms of therapy techniques, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). Along with other techniques, you can form your treatment to tailor to what works for you and what does not.

Some additional benefits of talk therapy include:

• Helping you become aware of self-defeating ways of thinking
• Identifying ways to cope with stress and anxiety
• Applying mindfulness and meditation to relax and destress
• Working on social and communication skills
• Being aware of emotions and behaviors that impact your life
• Overcoming trauma and dealing with grief in a healthy way

There are many benefits to being seen privately by a therapist. Talk therapy doesn’t require medication, and you can easily work with a therapist that works for you. If you don’t find the right therapist right away, don’t be discouraged. Sometimes it takes a little patience to find a therapist who will attend to your needs and help you deal with life in a healthy way.

What Is Group Therapy?

Group therapy has also been shown to be beneficial when experiencing a mental health condition or being in recovery. This type of therapy shares both similarities and differences with individual talk therapy. For example, in group therapy, you still meet with a therapist, but in a group setting. This means that you will have a group of peers around you listening and supporting you as you do the same for them.

The Benefits of Group Therapy

Unlike one-on-one talk therapy, group therapy gives you a place to talk to others who may be experiencing something similar to your situation. It also gives you a chance to practice social and communication skills. Additionally, you still have the help of a therapist by your side encouraging you to share your story.

Some of the benefits of group therapy include:

• Reducing the feeling of isolation
• Building a supportive community
• Supportive counseling
• Creating a trust system outside of therapy
• Shared experiences and understanding with other group members
• Improving social and communication skills

Group therapy may not be for everyone. However, just like talk therapy, there are techniques that can help improve your overall symptoms. 

Talk Therapy vs. Group Therapy

It can be hard to decide between talk therapy and group therapy. However, knowing that there are options for both can be helpful. For example, CBT can be used both in a one-on-one setting as well as in a group setting. CBT can teach you how to deal with faulty thinking and emotions to turn them into something positive.

When using a technique like CBT in talk therapy, you can learn how to challenge your thoughts and turn them into positive emotions. While using CBT in a group setting, you can practice learning with others how to deal with your emotions in a healthier way.

There are several benefits to both talk therapy and group therapy. Choosing the right one for you may be a matter of talking to your doctor. Talking to licensed medical professionals like the ones at Alter Wellness Care can help you decide which is right for you. Some people even decide that both forms of therapy work well together.

There is no right way to go, just what feels right for you. Don’t be afraid to try something new, and always seek out a medical professional if you need help with any aspect of your mental health condition. Therapy is ideal for everyone, and it can work for you.

Do you need a program and therapist that will work for you? The team at Alter Wellness Care is here when you are ready to get started in an outpatient therapy program. Our licensed mental health counselors are trained to help those with mild, chronic, and severe mental health conditions. We offer both talk therapy and group therapy programs that can be altered to fit your treatment plan. We encourage you to live a healthier and happier life by learning how to cope with and manage your mental health symptoms. It is our mission to see that you leave our clinic knowing you have the power to achieve anything. Give us a call at (866) 311-3510 now.