Difference Between Individual and Group Counseling

Group and individual counseling have different formats, each serving a different purpose. Group counseling is helpful for those who need practice at various skills, such as social skills or support from a group. Grief and recovery counseling are examples. But what is the difference between group and individual counseling?

Group counseling defined

The University of Illinois defines group counseling as “a form of psychotherapy that usually involves four to ten participants and one or two therapists.” In general, this definition can be applied to all groups. The numbers of participants and therapists may differ slightly, but typically, a therapy group exists to serve the participants in several areas.

Skills-based groups

Skills-based groups help those for reasons that derive benefit from practicing certain skills. Some examples may be a social-emotional group for children with autism or patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder who need group support to learn healthy coping skills.

Support groups

Group therapy that lends support is common among specific subtypes of therapy. For example, seeing a counselor for individual counseling after the death of a loved one may also result in attending a grief group where mourners can help each other process life by gaining new perspectives.

Psychoeducational groups

Some diagnoses benefit from learning in a group setting and exchanging ideas. These include specific phobias or social anxiety disorders. One example may be that teens benefit from attending a series of group counseling sessions among other teens who also struggle with social anxiety.

Recovery-based groups

These groups help people who need support in recovery from addiction or negative thinking patterns. Examples can include drug and alcohol addiction, eating disorders, or mental health struggles such as spiraling thoughts and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. As patients learn new ways to cope, it can be encouraging to hear from others who have gone through similar struggles.

Cognitive-behavioral groups

When a person learns to think a certain way, it can become an unhealthy pattern that leads to unhealthy behaviors. Cognitive-behavioral group counseling exists to help patients change their distorted thinking patterns and form new, healthier perspectives.

The interaction between group members can be particularly healing and eye-opening as practitioners allow the members to help each other learn new, beneficial coping mechanisms.

Individual therapy defined

Individual counseling is tailored to the individual. It involves meeting with a trusted counselor or trained therapist for a specific need. This kind of counseling is one-on-one, and it offers anonymity in a way that group counseling cannot guarantee.

Another benefit that individual therapy offers is flexible appointment scheduling for patients at times that work for them rather than expecting them to meet at the most consistent mutually accessible time (such as in group counseling).

Seeking individual counseling is often a great first step, so a trained professional can help you identify the type of counseling that will work best for you during this season. Keller Christian Counseling in Texas offers support. Call today to find the best approach for your situation.