Group Therapy Services

Brookside Family Therapy

Discover the Power of Healing Together

At Brookside Family Therapy in Manassas Park, VA, we believe that some of life's most profound healing happens in connection with others. Our group therapy and group psychotherapy services offer a unique therapeutic experience where clients can share their journeys, gain valuable insights, and develop effective coping strategies in a supportive environment guided by our experienced therapists.

What is Group Therapy?

Group therapy is a form of psychotherapy where one or more therapists work with several people simultaneously. In our small group settings of 6-10 participants, our therapists create a safe environment for open discussion, skill-building, and mutual support. Group psychotherapy offers unique benefits that complement individual therapy, providing both professional guidance and peer support in one powerful therapeutic format.

During group therapy sessions at Brookside Family Therapy, members of the group share their experiences, provide feedback to one another, and practice new skills under the guidance of our mental healthcare professionals. The American Group Psychotherapy Association recognizes these interactive elements as key therapeutic factors that make group work especially effective for many mental health conditions.

Our Group Therapy Approach

We take a personalized approach to group therapy, understanding that each person brings unique experiences, challenges, and strengths to the therapeutic process. Our therapists are trained in multiple evidence-based modalities, allowing us to adapt our approach to best serve the needs of each group while addressing individual concerns.

Specialized Group Formats

We offer several formats to accommodate different needs and preferences:

Closed Groups: Our closed group format maintains consistent membership throughout a predetermined timeframe, fostering deeper connections and trust among members. This structure is particularly beneficial for focused work on specific issues where group cohesion enhances the therapeutic process.

Open Groups: These groups allow new members to join at various points, providing flexibility and ongoing support. Open groups are excellent for addressing continuous challenges and accommodating busy schedules.

Psychoeducational Groups: These structured sessions focus on imparting information about specific mental health topics, combining education with supportive discussion. Psychoeducational groups help participants better understand their challenges and develop effective management strategies.

Therapeutic Modalities in Our Groups

Our group therapy integrates various therapeutic approaches, including:

  • Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT): Helps group members identify and change unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors, developing practical skills for managing mental health conditions.

  • Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT): Combines cognitive-behavioral techniques with mindfulness practices to improve emotion regulation and interpersonal relationships.

  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): Encourages psychological flexibility and value-based actions, helping members accept difficulties while making positive changes.

  • Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT): Concentrates on finding solutions rather than dwelling on problems, identifying strengths and building upon them.

  • Narrative Therapy: Helps participants explore and "rewrite" the stories they tell about themselves, creating more empowering narratives.

  • Person-Centered Therapy: Emphasizes each client's inherent wisdom and capacity for self-directed growth within the supportive group environment.

  • Animal-Assisted Therapy: Some groups incorporate animal assistance to reduce anxiety, increase motivation, and facilitate connection.

Gottman-Informed Therapy: For relationship-focused groups, incorporating research-based principles to build healthier connections.

Shared Understanding and Support

One of the most powerful aspects of group therapy is the realization that you're not alone in your struggles. Group members provide mutual support, validation, and encouragement based on shared experiences. This sense of belonging reduces isolation and normalizes challenges, creating a supportive environment where healing can flourish.

Benefits of Group Therapy

Group psychotherapy offers numerous benefits that differ from those of individual therapy. At Brookside Family Therapy, we've witnessed how group experiences accelerate healing and personal growth through several key therapeutic factors:

Multiple Perspectives and Valuable Feedback

Group settings provide diverse viewpoints that may not emerge in individual therapy. Receiving feedback and insights from other group members offers fresh perspectives on personal challenges. This collective wisdom often generates creative solutions and new understanding that accelerates growth and healing.

Interpersonal Learning and Improved Social Skills

Group therapy naturally provides opportunities to practice and improve social skills in a safe, supportive environment. Members can test new ways of communicating and relating to others, receiving immediate feedback on their interactions. The interpersonal learning that occurs within the group transfers to relationships outside therapy, improving connections with family, friends, and colleagues.

Cost-Effective Therapeutic Option

Group therapy is typically more affordable than individual therapy while still providing professional guidance and support. This accessibility ensures that more people can benefit from high-quality mental health care without financial strain.

Safe Space for Practice and Growth

Our groups offer a safe environment to practice new behaviors, communication styles, and coping strategies before implementing them in everyday life. This experiential learning, combined with supportive feedback from other members and therapists, builds confidence and competence in managing life's challenges.

Issues We Address Through Group Therapy

At Brookside Family Therapy, our group therapy services address a variety of concerns, with particular focus on:

Anxiety Disorders

Our anxiety-focused groups help participants understand the cognitive, emotional, and physical components of anxiety. Members learn evidence-based techniques for managing anxious thoughts and feelings while receiving support from others who truly understand their experience. For those dealing with social anxiety, our groups provide a supportive setting to practice new skills and build confidence.

ADHD

For adults and adolescents with ADHD, our groups offer practical strategies for improving organization, time management, and focus. The group format provides accountability and encouragement while normalizing the challenges associated with ADHD. Members share successful coping strategies and support each other through setbacks and successes.

PTSD

Our trauma-informed groups create a safe environment for individuals to process traumatic experiences and develop effective coping strategies. Shared understanding among group members reduces isolation and provides hope through witnessing others' healing journeys. Our therapists facilitate these groups with specialized training in trauma treatment.

Life Transitions

Whether facing career changes, relationship shifts, or other significant life events, our transition-focused groups help members navigate uncertainty and build resilience. Sharing this journey with other group members experiencing similar challenges provides valuable support and perspective during periods of change.

Relationship Issues

Groups focused on relationship dynamics help participants identify patterns, improve communication skills, and develop healthier ways of connecting with others. These groups benefit individuals seeking to improve various types of interpersonal relationships, including romantic partnerships, family connections, and friendships.

What to Expect in Group Therapy

Initial Assessment

Before joining a group, you'll meet individually with a therapist who will assess your needs, answer questions, and determine which group would be most beneficial. This personalized approach ensures you're matched with the right therapeutic environment.

Group Structure

Most group therapy sessions at Brookside last 90 minutes and meet weekly, providing consistent support while allowing time to practice new skills between meetings. Sessions typically include:

  • Check-ins where members briefly share relevant experiences

  • Focused discussion or skill-building activities led by the therapist

  • Interactive exercises that promote learning and growth

  • Time for feedback and support among group members

  • Closing reflections and sometimes homework assignments

Group Norms and Confidentiality

All our groups establish clear guidelines that foster respect, confidentiality, and productive interaction. Members commit to maintaining the privacy of what's shared within the group, creating a foundation of trust essential for therapeutic work. Our therapists maintain high ethical standards and ensure the group environment remains safe for all participants.

In-Person and Virtual Group Options

We offer both in-person and virtual group therapy options to accommodate different needs and preferences:

In-Person Groups

Our Manassas Park location provides a comfortable, professional space for face-to-face group therapy. Many clients appreciate the immediate connection and nonverbal communication available in physical meetings.

Virtual Groups

Our virtual group therapy options offer convenience, accessibility, and privacy. Systematic review and meta-analysis research confirm that virtual therapy can be just as effective as in-person therapy, making it a viable alternative for those who prefer or require remote sessions.

Why Choose Brookside Family Therapy for Group Work

What sets our group therapy services apart:

Experienced Therapists with Specialized Training

Our therapists have extensive training and experience in group facilitation, creating an atmosphere of safety, respect, and productive therapeutic work. They skillfully manage group dynamics to ensure each member benefits from the experience.

Personalized Approach

We recognize that each person comes to therapy with unique challenges, strengths, and goals. Our approach honors these differences while leveraging the power of shared experience and mutual support within the group.

Comprehensive Care Options

For many clients, group therapy works best as part of a comprehensive treatment approach. We offer seamless integration between individual therapy and group work when beneficial, providing coordinated care that addresses all aspects of your well-being.

Superior Customer Service

From your first contact through your entire therapeutic journey, we prioritize responsive, respectful service. Our administrative team makes scheduling simple, answers questions promptly, and ensures a smooth experience from intake through ongoing care.

Getting Started with Group Therapy

Beginning your group therapy journey with us is straightforward:

  1. Contact Our Office: Call our Manassas Park office or use our website to schedule an initial consultation. Our business manager, Jennifer, will assist you with preliminary questions and scheduling.

  2. Complete Intake Materials: You'll receive electronic intake documents and assessments that help us understand your specific concerns and goals.

  3. Initial Consultation: Meet with a therapist to discuss your needs and determine which group would be most beneficial for you.

  4. Join a Group: Once matched with an appropriate group, you'll begin regular sessions, typically meeting weekly.

Ongoing Support: As you progress, we'll work with you to adjust your treatment plan as needed, ensuring you receive the right level of support throughout your journey.

FAQs About Group Therapy

  • Group therapy can be beneficial for most people, but it's particularly effective if you:

    • Feel isolated in your struggles

    • Want to improve interpersonal relationships

    • Benefit from hearing others' perspectives

    • Learn well from shared experiences

    • Want to practice new skills in a supportive environment

    During your initial consultation, our therapists will help determine if group therapy aligns with your needs and goals.

  • Yes, many clients find that combining individual psychotherapy and group therapy provides comprehensive support. Individual sessions allow for deeper exploration of personal issues, while group sessions offer unique benefits like peer feedback and diverse perspectives.

  • It's completely normal to feel nervous about opening up in a group setting. Our therapists create a supportive environment where you can participate at your own comfort level. Many people find that as trust builds within the group, sharing becomes easier and more natural. You'll never be forced to disclose more than you're comfortable with.

  • The duration varies depending on your specific goals and challenges. Some groups have a predetermined timeframe (such as 8-12 weeks), while others are ongoing. Your therapist will discuss expectations about duration during your initial consultation and will regularly assess your progress.

Take the First Step Toward Healing

Group therapy at Brookside Family Therapy offers a powerful path to healing, personal growth, and improved relationships. Whether you're dealing with anxiety disorders, ADHD, PTSD, life transitions, or relationship issues, our group therapy services provide evidence-based support in a warm, accepting environment.

Contact Brookside Family Therapy today to learn more about our group therapy options and how they might benefit you. Our team is ready to answer your questions and help you begin your journey toward improved mental health and well-being.

Remember that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. By reaching out, you're demonstrating courage and commitment to your own well-being. We look forward to supporting you on this important journey.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact our Manassas Park office today.