Certified Group Psychotherapist : Suffolk Psychotherapy & Counseling: Karen Solomon LCSW, BCD, CGP, CHt

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Certified Group Psychotherapist

by Karen A. Solomon, LCSW, BCD, CGP, CHt

Many have asked what the "CGP" credential after my name stands for. It is the Certification in Group Psychotherapy which indicates that the therapist has fulfilled the standards for professional education and practice in group psychotherapy as well as committing to continuing professional development and education in the practice of group treatment.

Group therapy is a powerful adjunct to individual treatment and offers clients an opportunity to meet with others who are also working on their personal issues. Regardless of the problems clients come to treatment for, more often than not, interpersonal relationships are involved, affected or are in fact at the heart of the matter.

As a supplement to individual sessions, groups run by trained professionals provide opportunities for interaction with others in a safe, structured learning environment where difficulties may be addressed as they happen. Distorted perceptions of self and others, ineffectual communication, inappropriate discharge of emotions, acting out, hostility, and overreacting are just some of the issues that may be addressed within the group experience.

In addition, group members may offer each other feedback, support, understanding and compassion, all of which promotes client's growth and healing. Learning that others may be struggling with similar issues and genuinely understand what you are experiencing normalizes, validates and provides safety for further exploration of ones challenges. Sharing knowledge and information, role modeling, developing and improving socialization skills are just some of the benefits group treatment may provide. Although individual sessions with the therapist are extremely beneficial, supplementing those with real life experience and opportunities to practice, discuss and deal with others greatly enhances the process. Group members are informed about confidentiality, protecting group boundaries and maintaining a growth promoting environment for each other.

Types of Groups

There are a variety of groups that may be beneficial to different populations.

Support groups provide opportunities for sharing and supporting specific life challenges for those going thru similar struggles, such as:

Bereavement
Caretaking
Divorce
Illness

Psycho-educational groups may be offered for parents, families with special needs, step parents, just to name a few and are primarily educational and informative.

Psycho-dynamic therapy groups are ongoing interpersonal and experiential groups run by professionals with a focus on personal growth.