Group Therapy

Group psychotherapy is built upon the idea that individuals learn best from sharing experiences, ideas and concerns in a group setting, and from finding ways to effectively seek and provide support to one another. Group therapy emphasizes understanding and respecting individual differences and shared experiences, learning healthy forms of communicating, mastering conflict resolution, learning to recognize personal areas of growth, and allowing others to assist in a safe way. 

All groups at Primary Care Psychology Associates are inspired by Irvin Yalom's theory of Group Psychotherapy. According to Yalom (2020), there are several key therapeutic factors that influence change in group therapy. These factors, which emerge from interactions within the group, play a vital role in the healing process.
Universality: The recognition that others share similar feelings, thoughts, and experiences can alleviate feelings of isolation and enhance a sense of belonging.
Altruism: Helping and supporting others can boost self-esteem and provide a sense of value and purpose.
Interpersonal Learning: Learning from the experiences of others and receiving feedback can enhance self-awareness and foster personal growth.
​Self-Understanding: By relating with others and reflecting on their experiences, individuals can gain deeper insights into their own feelings, thoughts, and behaviors.

Group therapy is typically attended by 4 to 8 individuals, along with one or two therapists, who facilitate the conversations, provide therapeutic techniques, maintain safety, and enforce group rules for all members. Group members are encouraged but not expected to speak at every group session. Strict confidentiality is expected from all group members in order to ensure safety and comfort of group therapy experience. Group members are no allowed to enter personal relationships with one another while enrolled in group.

​The problems addressed in Group Therapy can vary in terms of their causes, influences, triggers, and potential resolutions, and include, but are not limited to:

Adjustment to stress
Treatment-resistant depression and anxiety
Communication problems
Low self-confidence
Burnout
Problem solving & Decision making
Insight building
Relationship difficulties
Isolation and loneliness
Social anxiety
Intimacy issues
Avoidance of conflict
Anger management 
Grief/Loss
Ageing/Stage of life concerns

We currently offer two Group Therapy experiences at PCPA, available to current and new patients of the practice. Please click below for more information:

  • (In Person)

    This is a gender-inclusive interpersonal process group for adults ages 18+

    Recommended for: 

    • Patients who would benefit from work on interpersonal skills and relationship building 

    • Patients with limited social support structure who would benefit from practicing social support seeking and collaborative problem-solving

    • Those wanting to deepen insight and dysfunctional relational pattern recognition while providing an additional therapeutic space for skills practice 

    • Individuals struggling with social anxiety, social isolation, and connectedness to others

    • Individuals who yearn to have deep & lasting relationships, but can’t seem to make relationships work

    • Those who seem “stuck” in individual sessions or with their skills application 

     
    The group structure and process is informed by interpersonal-process theory and will allow group members to identify current needs and concerns, receive feedback from therapists and peers, practice authenticity and sitting with emotional discomfort, refine their practice of evidence-based coping skills in an experiential, present-focused context. 
     
    The group will meet weekly on Mondays at 5:00 PM. Patients are asked to commit to 3 consecutive groups to join. 
     
    To Get Started: Call 847 686 0090 ext. 0119 or email aaslanian@pcpachicago.com
     
    Insurance accepted, sliding scale eligible starting at $20/session. 

  • Making Connections: Virtual Group Therapy for the Community​

    Our group provides you with a space to learn and practice the skills you need. This group may be a good fit for you if you live with any of the following concerns:
     
    Relationship Struggles • Isolation • Stress • Winter Blues
     Anxiety • Depression • Shame • Self-Esteem
     
    The group will meet weekly on Saturdays beginning on January 13th at 10:00 AM. You are welcome to join anytime and participate as long as this space is needed.
     
    To Get Started: Call 847 686 0090 ext. 0139 or email alurie@pcpachicago.com
     
    Insurance     accepted, sliding scale eligible starting at $20/session
    If yo    u have difficulty accessing a device or internet for attending virtual sessions please visit https://www.excesstelecom.com/ or contact us by phone to get set up.

Typically, group therapy sessions will last for 75-90 minutes. We accept most insurance plans, and self pay arrangements can be worked out as well. Coverage will be checked and relayed to the patients before services begin. As a general policy, cancellation REQUIRES a 24 hour notice, otherwise the patient or responsible party will be responsible for a $100 late cancellation fee.

Yalom, I. D., & Leszcz, M. (Collaborator). (2020). The theory and practice of group psychotherapy (6th ed.). Basic Books/Hachette Book Group.