Pros And Cons Of Group Therapy

The Encounters of Group & Individual Therapy
Lori Edwards Azuru
Liberty University

Abstract
This research paper discusses the topic of the dissimilarities, as well as the pros and cons of individual and group therapy. Discussing the history of group therapy and visiting its early development, while discovering its advancement into the twenty-first century. Examining the origins of individual therapy, and those who laid a foundation for others to build upon. This paper will also go into detail when dealing with the challenges of a falling economy, changing healthcare, and how clients, and leaders of the help professions are affected by these issues. Lastly, discuss why one would choose group counseling verses
Not only has accountability changed, the cost of individual sessions has increased. As a result sessions have now become shorter and more focused, rather than the former long-term analysis. This has also led to the possibility of more clients being treated, by utilizing group therapy (Engel, 2008). Although Group therapy has become more popular in the last decade, there was a time when it was looked at negatively, meaning it was thought to be intended for those who were substance abusers, as well as, court ordered to attend such meetings as Alcohol Anonymous, and other group therapy programs (Council on Alcoholism & Drug Abuse, 2015). However, group therapy is now a widespread form of counseling; support groups and other types of therapy groups are formed daily, and are in every city. These diverse groups are formed to deal with every kind of disease, syndrome or communal issue (Simmerman, 2007). History of Group Therapy The origins of group therapy dates back to the early 1900’s, during this time many patients suffered from
Lewin believed that a group that was established could accomplish much more than a single individual. He also agreed that further knowledge could be gained by these unified groups, rather than by assessing members individually. He described this concept as the means by which groups and individuals act and react to unstable conditions. This field emerged as a theory devoted to the development of knowledge concerning the nature of groups, including the way they form, grow, including their connections with other groups, individuals and establishments (Haggerty, 2014). Many did not agree with Lewin’s philosophy during the early years of research on group processes, and sadly enough numerous psychologists rejected the validity of group phenomena. Critics shared the belief that groups did not occur as systematically valid entities. Soon others would emerge on the scène with their own theories about group therapy and therapeutic factors (Schachter, 2015). Irvin D. Yalom M. D. was born in Washington, D.C., June 13, 1931. This Emeritus Professor of Psychiatry