Support Groups

There are many enduring benefits to support groups.

First, they’re a great way to combat loneliness. Instead of isolating yourself and suffering alone, the group setting gives you the much-needed social support you need.

You’ll also be able to share your story freely – no criticism, nonjudgmental, and safe.

It’s also therapeutic to listen to others’ stories. When you see others are going through something similar to what you are dealing with, you can gain insights that help carry you for the rest of your life.

You will soon realize that you are not alone in your struggles and life’s challenges.

Groups can act as a support network and a sounding board. Other group members often help you develop specific ideas for improving a difficult situation or life challenge and hold you accountable along the way.

Diversity is another important benefit of group therapy. People have distinct personalities and backgrounds, and they look at situations in different ways. By seeing how other people tackle problems and make positive changes, you can discover a whole range of strategies for facing your concerns. Through your connections with others, you can dig deep into your behavior and gain the insight you might not have gained in individual sessions.

Now, I know you might have some concerns…

How could I ever share my personal details with people I don’t know?

Remember that you’re not the only one sharing your personal story. Groups work best where there is open and honest communication between members.

What if I don’t like anyone in the group?

Group members will start as strangers, but you’ll most likely view them as a valuable and trusted source of support in a short amount of time.

Will people in the group talk about me when they go home?

Confidentiality is an important part of the ground rules for group therapy. However, there’s no guarantee of privacy when sharing with others. Use common sense when sharing personal information, especially at the beginning of the group when you are getting to know members and the trust level is not there yet.

Are you ready to try something new?

Reach out to Encouraged Counseling Services today for a free consultation to see if one of our support groups would be right for you.

Please call (312) 600-7364.

To register for the group, please email Edwin Caraballo at edwin.encouragedtherapy@gmail.com.