So how do you get your kid ready for a group? There’s a good place to start: having some frank talks about what the sessions would be like and who would be there. Your child will be comforted if you walk them through how group therapy is conducted, how long the session lasts, and what to expect to do. Allowing your child room to inquire gives you the ability to identify concerns early and discuss them. Most children are concerned about making new friends or talking in front of others, so easy reassurances go a long way. Highlighting that others there might be feeling what they’re feeling frequently establishes trust. Preparing your child for group therapy can help them feel safe. The best you can do is let them know you support them and that it’s okay to speak up or stay quiet. The second half reveals additional methods to steer your child.
Key Takeaways
- Group therapy offers a secure and guided environment for your child to learn emotional, social, and coping skills alongside peers with the support of a therapist.
- Prepping your child with concrete explanations, setting expectations, and assuaging fears will give them a sense of confidence and comfort about joining group sessions.
- Working on communication and emotional regulation skills at home prepares your child for group therapy and increases their capacity to contribute.
- By having open conversations about their feelings before and after sessions, you’re reinforcing your child’s trust and willingness to engage in the process.
- Your part, from keeping in contact with the therapist to supporting skills learned at home, is crucial to your son or daughter’s success.
- Group therapy can be a priceless tool for your child’s mental health by cultivating empathy, resilience, and teamwork that serves them outside the session.
What is Group Therapy?
Group therapy is a controlled environment where children and adolescents engage in group counseling activities alongside their peers. These sessions gather a small group, often of similar ages, allowing kids to open up about their feelings and learn from others who may be facing the same challenges. Each group follows a structured process with guidelines and stages designed to lead participants through their individual healing journeys. Rather than focusing on one-on-one therapy, the emphasis is on helping kids experiment with new coping strategies and manage stress in a group setting. For example, a group might center on discussing fears, learning to soothe through breathing exercises, or expressing emotions through art. Sessions consistently begin and end in a similar manner, providing a sense of security and predictability for the children. While kids as young as five can participate, most groups typically consist of low-risk individuals who are not dealing with severe issues like self-harm or uncontrollable anger.
A key component of effective group therapy is discussion. Children learn to take turns, listen actively, and express their feelings. We establish ground rules such as confidentiality, kindness, and safety, ensuring a supportive environment for everyone involved. Initially, some children may find it challenging to speak up, but witnessing others share their experiences often encourages them to open up as well. The collaborative nature of the group fosters trust and helps each child feel a sense of belonging, which is crucial for their emotional development.
Having one or two therapists guide the group is essential. Their role is to facilitate the conversation, maintain a safe environment, and provide support if any child becomes distressed. They closely observe group dynamics and intervene if necessary. The therapist sets the tone by speaking calmly and outlining steps to ensure everyone understands the process. They prioritize inclusion, making sure no child feels left out and that each participant has a chance to contribute. Groups can be tailored to specific age ranges, such as young children, pre-teens, or teenagers, as each developmental level has unique needs and ways of communicating emotions.
Why Choose Group Therapy?
Group therapy can provide your child with more than just support; it creates a safe environment where they can communicate, hear, and observe how other children navigate similar challenges. Kids and teens often feel isolated in their struggles, but group therapy demonstrates that they are not alone. Witnessing peers express fears, victories, or failures can significantly boost self-confidence and foster a sense of belonging. This supportive environment allows children to break out of their shells, building genuine trust and helping them realize they can tackle difficult situations together during group counseling sessions.
Social skills develop rapidly in group therapy programs, as children observe and emulate one another. They practice essential communication skills such as talking, listening, and taking turns. For kids who struggle with making friends or coping in group settings, engaging in group counseling activities provides natural opportunities to acquire and rehearse these skills. For instance, a timid child may gain the confidence to stand up and speak, while another who has difficulty listening can improve by watching their peers. Research suggests that effective group therapy, especially when combined with other interventions, can enhance social development and address emotional issues by as much as 40%.
Group therapy addresses a wide range of challenges beyond social skills. It is particularly beneficial for children dealing with low self-esteem, anxiety, or challenging behaviors. The group dynamic helps them realize they are not alone in facing these obstacles, offering coping strategies from both the therapist and their peers. This therapeutic process serves as a laboratory where they can experiment with new skills, receive feedback, and identify what works best for them. For many children, this group setting can feel less intimidating than one-on-one interactions with adults, ultimately leading to a stronger self-image, increased confidence, and healthier coping skills.
|
Benefit |
Group Therapy |
Individual Therapy |
|
Peer Support |
Strong, from group members |
Limited, from therapist |
|
Social Skill Practice |
High, real-time with peers |
Low, one-on-one only |
|
Community and Belonging |
Yes, shared group experience |
No, private session |
|
Cost |
Often lower |
Often higher |
|
Effectiveness |
Proven for many issues |
Proven, but less peer input |
How to Prepare Your Child
Preparing your child for group therapy activities involves more than informing them what to expect. It is about establishing trust, reducing anxiety, and providing them with resources to participate and thrive in the group counseling sessions. A firm outline makes your kid feel secure and more receptive to the therapeutic process.
1. Explain Clearly
Begin by demystifying group therapy. Try to use simple language and relate it to something in their lives, such as a school project or a sports team, where everyone learns and supports each other. Prepare your child for what to expect and how to act. Tell your child there will be other kids their age, all with their own stories and feelings.
Inform your child who will be there in the room—children and a group leader or therapist. The therapist is a leader, not a judge or executioner. Tell them that we all have some basic guidelines and it is okay not to remember them at the beginning. For the littlest kids, visual cues or simple charts can assist them in remembering.
2. Address Fears
Touch base on any apprehension your child may be having. It’s helpful to ask open-ended questions, such as “What do you think it will be like?” or “Is there anything that makes you nervous about going?” Allow space for truthful responses without pressing for more than they’re willing to share.
You can talk about other people who were afraid but found group therapy beneficial. Request examples from the therapist if you don’t already have them. Remind your child it’s okay to feel nervous and that you’ll be there to help. Instruct basic coping mechanisms, such as slow breathing or squeezing a stress ball, for times when they become overwhelmed.
3. Set Expectations
Explain what a session looks like, how many kids are typically in a small group, what they might do such as chat, play games, or draw, and how frequently they will meet. Set your child’s expectations by letting them know that it is going to take time to make friends and get acclimated.
Discuss participation, listening, and sharing. Tell them it’s OK to be shy initially. Encourage them to remain open-minded and give it a try, even if it seems weird. Explain that true transformation and ease can require weeks, and that’s okay.
4. Meet the Therapist
A brief meeting with the therapist prior to the group’s commencement can assist. Your child can explore the space, inquire, and listen to what occurs during sessions. This establishes confidence and removes some of the uncertainty.
Prepare your child that the therapist is there to make everyone feel safe. The therapist will utilize play, conversation, and other activities, so it’s not simply sitting and talking. Let your child ask whatever they want about the therapist’s job or the group.
5. Practice Skills
Practice skills your child will be using in group therapy at home. Practice role-plays, compliment giving, or listening. Teach calming techniques such as deep breaths, counting, or illustrating emotions in a workbook. Parents can jump in and color right along with you, making it part of your week.
Incorporate visual cues, such as charts or stickers, to monitor routines. Pick no more than three skills a week to emphasize and practice. This consistent, low-stakes rehearsal develops confidence and equips your child to carry those skills into the group dynamic.
Steps for preparing your child for group therapy: * Discuss what group therapy entails and what to anticipate.
- Inquire about your child’s emotions and concerns.
- Describe who will be in the group and the therapist’s role.
- If possible, visit or meet the therapist in advance.
- Rehearse critical skills at home, via workbooks or straightforward activities.
- Keep routines explicit with visuals or reminders.
- Remind your child that it’s okay to need time to get used to it.
What Skills Will They Learn?
Group therapy programs provide your child with the opportunity to develop real-world skills that are essential on a daily basis. In this supportive environment, kids learn alongside their peers, cultivate new habits, and receive constructive feedback from both their fellow group members and experienced leaders. The skills acquired in these group counseling activities assist your child in navigating emotions, relating to others, and successfully completing group assignments. These are skills they can apply at school, at home, or anywhere in their lives.
1. Emotional Regulation
In a group counseling session, kids learn to recognize and manage big feelings within a safe community. They practice self-regulation techniques to calm down when feeling angry or overstimulated, such as taking deep breaths or counting. These coping skills empower them to resist impulsive reactions and choose more effective behaviors. For instance, a child who feels angry might learn to request a timeout instead of screaming. Group leaders guide them through actions like identifying their feelings, expressing them verbally or non-verbally, and deciding on the next steps. With consistent nurture and practice, these skills become even stronger.
2. Social Skills and Communication
During group therapy, kids have ample opportunities to express themselves and feel heard. They learn to take turns, ask questions, follow directions, and engage in group conversations. Completing simple tasks, such as “Touch your nose,” fosters both confidence and trust, making children feel capable. Using a “first/then” approach can help with tasks they may dislike; for example, “First pick up the blocks, then play with the trucks.” Through these group dynamics, kids also develop empathy by observing the emotions and responses of others, allowing them to identify feelings in their peers and react compassionately.
3. Collaboration and Teamwork
Group therapy functions as a platform for kids to collaborate with others on common objectives. They learn to share, help, and wait their turn while participating in collaborative games or assignments. If a child struggles with group work, they might start with straightforward activities in a one-on-one setting before transitioning into the group. This gradual approach eases their integration and builds camaraderie. As they observe and engage with others, children gain social confidence and become active participants in the therapeutic process.
The Parent’s Role
Parents play a crucial role in fostering a child’s therapy journey, instilling their own feeling of security in the therapeutic process. You assist best when you remain educated and engaged, not just by attending, but by understanding how group therapy activities operate. Educate yourself about your child’s mental health and any diagnoses or concerns they present. By learning about the therapy, you can stay informed about what your child is learning each week. Being aware of the group counseling session timetable allows you to integrate it into your family’s routine. Other sessions may pull your child out of regular activities, so scheduling in advance can help maintain fluidity at home and school.
Your role extends beyond just drop-off and pick-up; it involves active participation in your child’s healing journey. Stay in touch with the therapist and inquire about what your child is being taught during their group counseling activities. This will help you find ways to assist at home. Support healing outside of therapy by role-playing, practicing new language, or experimenting with coping hacks. For instance, if your child develops the ability to speak up in therapy group sessions, encourage them to practice that skill at home or with friends. If possible, attend a session or concurrent parent meetings to gain insight into your child’s therapeutic goals and what it takes for them to be accomplished.
Honor your child’s privacy, especially if they are a teenager. Teens often need more space, but they still appreciate your support. Avoid prying for information they’re not ready to share. It’s normal for kids to push back against therapy; this does not mean the process should stop. Instead, have a conversation with your child and the therapist to discover any underlying issues. If you’re concerned that your child has become too attached to the therapist, it’s important to discuss this with the therapist.
Therapy should have transparent goals and a stopping point. The Parent’s Role: Just be sure your child knows where they are going and for how long. Keep an open mind, promote candid conversation, and collaborate with your counselor to stay on course.
- Keep up with your kid’s mental health and therapy.
- Keep regular contact with the therapist and ask questions
- Practice therapy skills at home during daily routines
- Attend parent sessions to learn about goals and progress
- Respect your child’s boundaries and privacy
- Address any resistance or concerns openly with both your child and therapist.
- Ensure that your child understands what therapy is for and that it is temporary.
What Happens in a Session?
Here’s what happens in a session. A group therapy session for children follows a specific routine to make kids feel comfortable and prepared to participate. We begin each session with a brief greeting and might incorporate an easy mindfulness practice, such as slow breathing or a moment of silence to ‘check in’ with the body. This aids in establishing a relaxed atmosphere and allows kids to transition from their day into the collective space of the group. Immediately following, the therapist will review the group rules. These guide me on respect, kindness, confidentiality, and only participating when you feel comfortable. This start builds trust and helps kids know what to expect.
In the core of the session, kids engage in activities that develop social skills, enable them to express emotion, and learn strategies for managing strong feelings. A frequent activity is a ‘Feelings Check’ in which each child can identify how they feel using words or pictures. Counselors sometimes use posters or worksheets to illustrate what coping skills look like in real life. Children could play games, role-play, or illustrate to communicate what is on their mind. They are straightforward activities that get kids talking, listening, and rooting for one another.
Therapists steer the conversations so all the kids can participate. They employ open questions and allow the kids to share when they are ready. If a kid is shy, the therapist will provide subtle prompting or incorporate trauma-informed techniques, such as guided relaxation, to maintain safety for all parties. The therapist intervenes as necessary to help keep the group compassionate and on point. Occasionally, there are mini-lessons about emotions or healthy coping, and kids receive small assignments or “homework” to try out new skills at home or school. This assists kids in applying what they learn in the group to daily life.
The session concludes with a closing ritual, which could be another relaxation activity or a group game, providing a sense of closure and safety. This consistent and nurturing rhythm aids kids in anticipating what’s next and feeling included in a loving community.
Checklist for a typical session:
- Welcome and mindfulness exercise
- Review of group rules and agreements
- Feelings check-in
- Social skills or coping activities with visual aids
- Group discussion led by the therapist
- Practice of relaxation or trauma-aware exercises
- Homework or skill practice assignment
- Closing activity or calm-down exercise
Conclusion
Group therapy can help your child blossom with others who face the same things. Kids learn to share, speak up, and listen. They learn to cooperate and solve day-to-day problems. What you can do is discuss what to expect and hear your child’s concerns. Keep in contact with the group leader and ensure your child’s treatment remains on course. Every session provides your child with a secure environment to experiment with new skills. Your kindness counts. If you’re concerned or want advice for your child, contact a group therapy provider. Become informed, get your questions answered, and discover the ideal next step for your family.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What should you tell your child before group therapy?
Tell him that group therapy activities provide a safe space for sharing emotions. Explain to your child that they will meet other kids experiencing similar feelings. Assure them that sharing is optional and that the group leader is there to facilitate the therapeutic process.
2. How can you help your child feel less nervous about starting group therapy?
Hear your child out on his concerns. Role play what might happen. Tell them everyone is there for one another and that it is okay to be nervous at the onset.
3. What should your child bring to a group therapy session?
Generally, your child just has to bring him or herself and a willingness to engage in group counseling activities. If the therapist recommends, they can bring a notebook, a comfort item, or water.
4. How long does a group therapy session last for children?
Most children’s group therapy activities last about 45 to 60 minutes. The therapist will inform you of your child’s group counseling session time and schedule.
5. Can you attend the session with your child?
Group therapy is typically designed for kids, incorporating group counseling activities. Therapists often meet with caregivers pre- or post-sessions to discuss progress and answer questions.
6. What if your child does not want to participate in group activities?
It’s okay if your child is shy or silent initially during group counseling activities. Therapists honor each kid’s comfort level and encourage participation in the therapeutic process when they feel ready.
7. How do you know if group therapy is helping your child?
Search for minor improvements, such as better mood and newly acquired social skills, during group counseling activities. Inquire about how your child is feeling after therapy sessions, as regular reports from the therapist will enable you to track progress.
Group Therapy for Children and Teens at Pivot Counseling
Kids and teens face plenty of pressure, and it can feel even heavier when they think they’re the only ones going through it. Group therapy at Pivot Counseling gives young people a place to connect with peers who understand what they’re feeling. It creates a supportive setting where they can talk openly, practice new skills, and build confidence with guidance from our trained therapists.
These groups help with many common challenges, including anxiety, social stress, emotional regulation, school pressure, and family dynamics. Participants learn how to express themselves, listen to others, and handle tough moments with a little more stability. As they gain skills together, they start to see that they aren’t alone and that real growth can happen when support is shared.
Each group is structured with clear goals and exercises designed to help children and teens build healthier patterns. Our team offers steady encouragement and practical strategies they can use at home, at school, and with friends.
If your child is struggling or just needs a safe place to connect and grow, Pivot Counseling is here. Reach out to schedule a consultation and find the group that fits their needs.
Disclaimer:
The information on this website is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or qualified health provider with any questions regarding a medical condition. Pivot Counseling makes no warranties about the accuracy, reliability, or completeness of the information on this site. Any reliance you place on such information is strictly at your own risk. Licensed professionals provide services, but individual results may vary. In no event will Pivot Counseling be liable for any damages arising out of or in connection with the use of this website. By using this website, you agree to these terms. For specific concerns, please contact us directly.
