What to expect in a process group

In a process group, the conversation in the room is the work. You notice how you relate to the people around you, and you get to try new ways of connecting, with support.

Think of it like a practice space

Group is a safe place to try out new ways of relating before you take them into the rest of your life.

What it's like

We talk about right now

Besides what happened this week, you'll talk about how you feel about what's happening in the room, as it happens.

Feedback is part of it

Members share how they experience each other. You can ask for it, and you decide what to keep.

You help by being there

Watching others work helps you too, even on days you say little.

Nerves are normal

Common worries: being judged, not getting enough time, not fitting in. Saying them out loud often helps.

Ruptures can be repaired

Misunderstandings happen, including about culture and identity. Leaders help the group talk them through.

Groups change over time

Early meetings feel polite. Some tension often comes next, then deeper work, then an ending.

Why it matters

Group therapy works about as well as individual therapy for many concerns, and a strong bond among members is one of the clearest signs a group will help.¹

Keep in mind

Your leader is bound by law to keep what you share private, with a few exceptions. Members agree to privacy too, but aren't bound the same way. Ask what that means in your group.

If you're in crisis, call or text 988.

General education, not a replacement for therapy or medical care. The Group Guide is a directory, not a clinic.

Sources: (1) Burlingame et al., Psychotherapy, 2016; Burlingame, McClendon, and Yang, Psychotherapy, 2018. American Group Psychotherapy Association, Practice Guidelines for Group Psychotherapy, updated edition.

What to Expect in a Process Group · Your page

Name Date

My goals for group

Fill this in before your first session. Look at it again after a month.

What I hope will be different

A pattern I'd like to notice in myself

What helps me feel safe in a group

In my first month, I'll try to

Speak up once each sessionAsk someone for feedbackGive someone feedbackSay how I feel in the moment

If I want to quit

Bring it up in group firstTalk with the leader

After a month, I've noticed

Notes

Want to practice this with others?

Process and interpersonal groups meet near you and online. Scan to find one at thegroupguide.com.

If you're in crisis, call or text 988.