Group Therapy

The Group Therapy program forms a significant part the day.

Group Therapy has proven to be an effective form of therapy and even more effective than individual therapy in some cases, especially when social support and learning about relationships is of key importance (Yalom, 2005).

VALIDATION is a key benefit of Group Therapy. Patients will realise that they are not alone in their struggles. Group Therapy is both supportive and challenging: allowing patients to explore personal challenges and difficulties in a safe, non-judgmental environment.

Many who attend the Wellness program experience difficulties in their everyday relationships. People often find that their personal relationships are not satisfying and meaningful; or find open, honest communication with others challenging. Group Therapy offers you the opportunity to:

Thrive Sunnyside Psychiatric Hospital
  • Improve self-awareness and self-knowledge
  • Improve self-esteem, self-confidence and self-image.
  • Give and receive feedback and support.
  • Gain insight into the patient’s specific style of communication.
  • Learn how to communicate more effectively with others.
  • Become more aware of the destructive patterns of behaviour.
  • Be open and honest about feelings and learn how to cope with difficult emotions.
  • Better understand thoughts, feelings and behaviour, how they affect each other and how these relate to relationships.
  • Better understand others’ thoughts, feelings and behaviour.
  • Experience personal change within the group which can then be practised outside the group.

Our program consists of a variety of different group sessions

1) Life Skills groups are sessions concentrating on specific topics. The group sessions in each week will relate to these topics. Some of the topics will include self-awareness, anger management, communication, forgiveness and financial planning. In these groups, patients may spend some time listening to ideas and concepts presented by a therapist. However, all groups are interactive, and patients are encouraged to share their thoughts and how they relate to the topic presented. The more patients participate, the more meaningful they will find these groups.

2) Therapeutic Art forms an interesting part of our program. Crafts can change negative thoughts and attitudes into positive ones. It encourages patients to move forward and can improve their confidence, self-esteem, motivation and mood. It offers patients a vehicle for social contact in a non- threatening environment and, in doing so, opens their world.

3) Process groups, where reflection takes place and experiential learning enables patients to evaluate their habits, current skills and needs.

4) Mindfulness & Relaxation groups help patients to discover how to be quiet, relax and spend time with yourself. This is very important for our health and well-being, but difficult for many of us to practice!

5) Relaxation time – time after groups where patients choose what to do with their time. They will have the opportunity and resources available to start implementing new skills learnt, e.g. mindfulness, reading, games, exercise, etc.

6) Individual sessions with psychiatrist, psychologist, occupational therapist, social worker and other relevant referrals by their doctor.