Group Therapy
New Adult Group Therapy Starting Soon at GIC!
Who: All adults, we have room for 8 total participants. This group will be facilitated by Lupe
and Aiden
What: Group Therapy: $45.00 per group therapy session
When: Every other Thursday evening from 5:00pm to 6:00pm, Starting February 19 th and ending
after 10 group sessions.
Where: Gender Identity Center (Phoenix office), suite number 140, in person
Why: This group is open to all adults who identify as transgender, nonbinary, gender queer,
and/or gender non-conforming. We will provide a safe and affirming space for exploration and
discussion of identity, lived experiences, with the goal to build community with peers who are
walking similar paths. This group will provide therapeutic support and education. Participants
will be invited to engage as much or as little as they want but will get the opportunity to share
about their experiences and hear others talk about similar experiences, with the facilitated
expertise of the therapists. If you know you'll have to miss one or two groups that is okay but
please only sign up if you can commit to trying to be there for most of the Thursdays. Group
dynamics form best when every group member is present each week. Lastly, if you are nervous
to sign up you can always try it out once and discontinue if you wish.
How: Sign up as soon as you can by emailing: (Info@genderidentitycenter.com) Or talking with
your current GIC therapist.
We are excited to build connections with this group!
We regularly start new groups! To register to participate in a group please call 480-349-3671 or email info@genderidentitycenter.com. We will connect you to others your age and set up a schedule that works for all group members. You can also be added to a group therapy waitlist to ensure you will be contacted every time we start a new group.
In the realm of mental health, group therapy stands out as a powerful and effective approach. Unlike individual therapy, group therapy offers a unique dynamic where individuals come together to share experiences, provide mutual support, and learn from one another under the guidance of a trained therapist. Group therapy involves one or more therapists working with a small group of people who face similar struggles. The primary goal of group therapy is to provide a supportive environment where participants can share their experiences, gain insight into their behaviors and emotions, and to feel less alone. The social connection gained in group therapy is incredibly valuable and can have significant benefits for overall health and wellbeing.
Group therapy can be particularly effective in exploring gender identity and coping with gender dysphoria, as sharing experiences with others who have gone through similar situations can be incredibly validating and healing. For those dealing with anxiety or depression, the support and understanding of group members can provide a powerful counterbalance to feelings of isolation and hopelessness.
The Benefits of Group Therapy
Shared Experiences and Support: One of the most significant advantages of group therapy is the sense of community it fosters. Participants often find comfort in knowing they are not alone in their struggles. Hearing others’ stories can provide validation, reduce feelings of isolation, and offer new perspectives on personal challenges.
Diverse Perspectives: Group therapy allows individuals to receive feedback and insights from multiple sources, not just the therapist. This variety of viewpoints can lead to a deeper understanding of one’s issues and inspire new ways of thinking and coping. Group members often become valuable sources of encouragement and support for each other.
Skill Development: Group therapy sessions often focus on teaching practical skills and strategies for managing mental health conditions. These can include stress management techniques, communication skills, and problem-solving strategies. Practicing these skills in a group setting can enhance their effectiveness and make them easier to apply in everyday life.
Improved Social Skills: For many individuals, mental health issues can impact their ability to interact with others. Group therapy provides a safe space to practice social skills, build confidence, and develop healthier relationships. Participants can learn from each other’s experiences and gain valuable insights into their social behaviors.
Cost-Effective: Compared to individual therapy, group therapy is more affordable. This makes it an accessible option for many people who need mental health support but may have financial constraints.
What to Expect in a Group Therapy Session
Group therapy sessions typically involve a small group of people, usually between 5 to 12 participants, and one or two therapists. Sessions usually last between 1 to 2 hours and are held weekly or bi weekly. The structure of each session can vary depending on the type of group therapy and the therapist’s approach. However, common elements include:
Introductions and Check-Ins: Sessions often start with a brief check-in, where participants share how they have been feeling and any significant events since the last meeting.
Discussion and Sharing: A significant portion of the session is dedicated to open discussion and sharing. Participants talk about their experiences, challenges, and progress. The therapist facilitates the conversation, ensuring that everyone has a chance to speak and that the discussion remains productive.
Skill Building and Activities: Some sessions may include specific activities or exercises designed to build coping skills, improve emotional regulation, or address particular issues. These can range from role-playing scenarios to mindfulness exercises.
Feedback and Support: Participants are encouraged to provide feedback and support to each other. This can include offering advice, sharing personal insights, or simply providing emotional support.
Sources:
American Psychological Association (APA). (2020). Understanding Group Therapy. Retrieved from APA Group Therapy
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). (2021). Group Therapy: How It Works and What to Expect. Retrieved from NAMI Group Therapy
Yalom, I. D., & Leszcz, M. (2020). The Theory and Practice of Group Psychotherapy. Basic Books.
Corey, G. (2015). Theory and Practice of Group Counseling. Cengage Learning.
American Group Psychotherapy Association (AGPA). (2022). What is Group Therapy? Retrieved from AGPA Group Therapy