Group Therapy is a viable option to consider if your child is suffering from any form of neurological disorders. It can be a source of support for kids as it improves their ability to communicate and connect with others. Group therapy helps kids feel heard and known. It also helps kids learn to talk openly about their struggles and learn from peer modeling.
Children have a limited understanding of emotions. Guided interactions with peers help increase emotional intelligence and develop social skills that are essential development goals for children. Children struggling with anxiety, depression, or poor/limited socialization may benefit greatly from group therapy.
In individual therapy, the child will work on specific goals to address these skills. An example might be making one new friend by initiating a conversation and using active listening skills. This helps the child practice a specific skill set. In a group setting, however, the child has the opportunity to work on these skills with other kids in the room.
Children in group therapy learn from each other about themselves and others:
- Build social skills.
- Express their issues.
- Accept criticism from others.
- Groups teach you about yourself.
- Groups provide a sounding board.
- Learn to communicate appropriately.
- Learn to express emotions appropriately.
- Learn new coping and problem-solving skills.