Couples Group
I offer a couples group that is currently being conducted online.
The group is for any couple living together in a committed relationship, married or not, heterosexual or same sex, that wants to improve their relationship by improving communication and reducing conflict.
The group is ongoing and currently being held two evenings per month at 8 p.m. for one hour and fifteen minutes. The charge for the group is $40 per couple per session. Here are some reasons for and benefits from being in a couples group (this information is adapted from the writings of Irvin Yalom):
- Instilling hope.
Since group therapy often includes couples at different stages in their relationships and in their therapy, some of the newer couples can find encouragement from seeing the positive impacts of therapy on couples further along in the group. - Universality.
Just being part of a group of couples who understand what other couples are going through and have experienced similar problems helps couples see that they are not alone. - Imparting information.
Other couples can be a great resource for information about improving relationships, by learning from their challenges and successes, and how to identify and avoid destructive or non-helpful behaviors in their relationship with their partner. - Altruism.
Group therapy gives couples a chance to help others in the group. - Development of socialization techniques.
The simple experience of working in a group provides excellent opportunities to socialize, practice new behaviors, and experiment in a safe environment. - Imitative behavior.
Couples can observe and imitate or model positive and helpful behaviors toward their partners and others in the group. - Interpersonal learning.
Interacting with the therapist and other group members and receiving feedback can help couples learn more about themselves. - Group cohesiveness.
Group therapy sessions can facilitate a shared sense of belonging and acceptance of one another. - Catharsis.
This principle is based on the healing powers of sharing with others; talking about feelings and experiences in a group can help relieve pain, guilt, and stress. - Existential factors.
Although group therapy offers guidance and support through the group, it also helps partners in a couple realize that they are responsible for their own actions and the consequences that follow.