Ottawa Group Therapy

What Group Therapy Can Support

Group therapy can support many of the same concerns addressed in individual counselling. Some people choose to participate in both individual and group therapy, while others find that the group itself becomes an important space for reflection and support.

Groups at Catharsis may support those navigating:

• Anxiety and social anxiety
• Depression
• Trauma and recovery from difficult life experiences
• Stress and emotional overwhelm
• Relationship challenges
• Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
• Anger or emotional regulation difficulties

Experiences rarely fit neatly into one category. Group therapy provides space to explore the complexity of what you are going through while learning from others who may be facing similar challenges.

How Group Therapy Works

Group therapy typically involves a small number of participants meeting regularly with one or more trained therapists who guide the discussion and maintain a safe and respectful environment.

Sessions may include:

• Open discussion and shared reflection
• Learning practical coping strategies and emotional regulation skills
• Exploring relationship patterns and interpersonal dynamics
• Receiving supportive feedback from other group members
• Developing new perspectives on personal challenges

Participants are never required to share more than feels comfortable. Listening and reflecting on the experiences of others can be just as meaningful as speaking.

Confidentiality and mutual respect are foundational to group therapy at Catharsis.

The Value of Shared Perspective

One of the unique aspects of group therapy is the opportunity to hear how others understand and approach challenges that may feel isolating when faced alone.

Participants often discover that:

• Others have experienced similar struggles
• Different viewpoints reveal patterns that may be difficult to see on your own
• Support from peers can reduce feelings of shame or self-doubt
• Witnessing others navigate change can encourage personal growth

Group members frequently offer perspectives that broaden understanding and create new possibilities for moving forward.

Types of Groups

Depending on current offerings, Catharsis Psychology and Psychotherapy may facilitate several types of therapeutic groups, including:

• Psychoeducational groups that focus on learning about mental health and emotional well-being
• Skills-based groups that develop coping strategies and communication tools
• Cognitive or behavioural groups that explore patterns of thinking and behaviour
• Support groups that provide space for shared experiences and mutual encouragement
• Interpersonal process groups that examine relationship patterns as they emerge within the group

Each group is carefully structured and facilitated by clinicians to ensure the environment remains supportive, respectful, and focused on meaningful growth.