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Group Therapy
What is group therapy?
 
Group therapy is a dynamic and interactive approach for emotional healing.  For teenagers and
pre-teens, it can be especially effective.  Instead of meeting with a therapist as an individual or with the family, a teenager can become a part of a group of peers to explore life. 
 
 
Don't teens already waste enough time talking to friends?
 
Well, that depends on the kid.  There are a few reasons why my groups are more effective than just hanging out with friends:
  • the group is facilitated by a positive male role model (that's me by the way)
  • I help guide the interactions and discussions toward:
    • emotional growth and communication
    • responsibility and maturity
    • stronger social skills
    • making better choices
  • the group becomes a safe place to communicate and explore issues with other kids away from the judgments of their school peer groups
What's better, individual or group therapy?
 

After an initial meeting with you and your child, we will discuss his specific needs.  Individual therapy and group therapy can focus on the same issues in different ways.  Together, we will determine the best type of therapy that will help your child.  Sometimes participating in both types of therapy simultaneously can be a great asset.  In individual therapy, I provide specialized attention and create a non-judgmental environment for your child to explore his thoughts and feelings.  At the same time, in group therapy I will also provide a safe haven for your child to develop a stronger level of comfort among peers.  Your kid can take what he learns in individual therapy and put it into practice in group therapy.  Consequently, he will use these new social skills out in the real world.  After assessing the needs of your family I will recommend to you which approach best serves your child. 

 
An advantage for group therapy is that it's generally less expensive than individual or family therapy.  This can be a more economical way to start the therapeutic process if finances are a major concern. 
What groups do you currently offer?  
 
I offer two groups.  The first is The Guys' Group. 
What's a Guys' Group?
 
Remember that kids and teens are not always too keen on just opening up and exploring their inner psyches.  So instead of sitting around and pressuring these guys into self disclosure, I create fun activities for them to relate to one another. 
 
That's right.  Kids love having fun, and age-appropriate activities such as games and guided discussions about current movies, television shows and music can help them open up in a fun and non-threatening way.  This indirect approach fosters many opportunities to explore their feelings in a more indirect and safe way.  
 
Remember that play is practice for real life and even though your kid is a teen, he's still learning how to be an adult.  Carefully chosen games can enhance your kid's ability to explore issues around:
  • self identity
  • peer relationships
  • self expression
  • social responsibility
  • integrity
As the group progresses, the boys learn to trust one another and become more interactive.  In time the group will eventually evolve more toward direct personal interaction.  In turn, they will learn to develop stronger social skills and self-confidence.
 
For those of you with kids who are resistant to begin therapy, this is a great way to get them started.  It won't take long for your teenager to be excited about the group and see it as something to look forward to each week.
 THE GUYS' GROUP
Middle School
  • The group meets on Wednesday's from 5:00pm to 6:30pm.  
     
  • An initial interview with you and your son will be required for enrollment.
     
  • This group is for boys of middle school age only.
     
  • Space is limited to a maximum of six participants at a time.
     
  • Contact me at your earliest convenience to get more information.  I'll be happy to answer any questions you may have. 
This group is for boys only.  Do you work with girls?
 
Yes. I do work with girls in individual and family therapy, but currently I only offer groups for
pre-teen and teen boys.  The reason why these two groups are not coed is to create more comfort and safety in session.  Teens are going through so much change and they tremendously fear being different.  Keeping the groups to boys-only relieves some of the pressures from unnecessary judgment and competition around socializing with girls.
 
If you are looking for a group for your daughter, please let me know and I will be able to refer you to a group that best suits her needs. 
What about parents?  We need help too!  What do you suggest?
 

From leading numerous parent workshops and receiving your comments on my Tips on Teens articles, I’ve noticed that many parents are craving more support and don’t know where to find it.

 

Your questions and concerns have led me to develop a unique way to offer some additional guidance.  I am starting a Support Group for Parents of Teenagers and I’d like to invite you to be a member of the group. 

PARENTS OF TEEANGERS
WINTER '08-09 WORKSHOP
  • Wednesday night group lasting six sessions on December 3, 10, & 17, 2008. 
    (take two weeks off for the holidays)
    January 7, 14, 21, 2009
    7:00pm - 8:30pm
     
  • A safe, friendly and secure place to share your experiences and discover different ways of parenting
     
  • Small group size – increased attention to your concerns and needs
     
  • More interactive and fun than reading a parenting book at your local library
     
  • Ability to give and gain support from other parents dealing with the same struggles
     
  • Learn from a knowledgeable expert in teenage development and behavior (that’s me)
     
  • Group therapy is less expensive and offers more peer support than individual or family counseling
      
  • This group welcomes single parent, dual parent and blended families.  If you have additional questions or would like more information, please contact me.  Again, space is limited, so call to guarantee your spot in the group.
I'd like to know more about group therapy, can you tell me a little more?
 
Sure.  give me a call or drop me an email and I can assist you with any concerns you may have.  Together, you and I can come up with the best way to help your son or daughter and your family.
  
 
   
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