Overcoming a Fear of Snakes

If your doctor has suggested that you participate in group therapy, you may wonder if there is anything special that you need to do besides sitting in the group and talking. If so, consider using the following tips so that you can get the most out of your sessions.

1.  Complete Any Group Homework Assignments

Depending on the type of group and the reason for attending, such as substance abuse treatment or mental health management, the curator of the group may assign optional assignments that each individual can do at home in preparation for the next session. These assignments may include journal entries, poems, or even art projects.

At first, you may wonder what the assignments have to do with your recovery and treatment. However, these types of assignments provide an interesting and often fun way to look deep inside yourself to help work through any issues you are having.

For example, the journal entries may include prompts to help you get any anger or fear out on paper. Or, a poem may be suggested so that you can express your feelings in a creative manner. Then, when you share your thoughts and assignments in the group, it provides a different way for everyone to communicate with one another besides just going around the room and telling stories.

2.  Be Open to Giving and Receiving Feedback

Another way you can get the most out of your group therapy is to tell yourself that you will be open to receiving and giving feedback to other members of the group. Whenever you or another member tells a story or shares an assignment, the curator will most likely as for the other members' thoughts.

Receiving this type of feedback is important because it can give you varying perspectives about an issue you are dealing with. It forces you to look at the problem from various angles and give you further insight.

On the same note, giving feedback can help other members of the group deal with their problems. However, it can also show you ways to deal with similar problems you may be having. Since it is often easier to tell someone else your opinion about something in their life, look closely to see if the feedback you provide can be applied to yours.

Completing any assignments and participating fully can help you get the most out of each session. For more information about what to expect and how to best participate, speak with someone who offers group therapy services for personalized guidance.