NUR-716 Group Therapy Session
Group Therapy Participation
I participated in a 60-minute group therapy session as an observer. The session used a cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) approach, which emphasizes the relationship between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. CBT helps participants identify negative thinking patterns and replace them with constructive alternatives, making it one of the most effective group therapy methods for mood and anxiety disorders (Muench et al., 2022). The group consisted of adults experiencing depressive and anxiety symptoms who benefited from learning coping skills and interacting with peers. Interventions included guided thought-challenging exercises, relaxation techniques, and structured group discussions to encourage openness. As group members explored triggers and shared personal strategies, the session highlighted the importance of peer learning. The target population was individuals struggling with stress and mood regulation, a group well suited to benefit from structured CBT techniques (Corey, 2021).
Common Diagnoses and Psychosocial Factors
The most common diagnoses observed in the group included generalized anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, and adjustment disorder. These mental health conditions were compounded by psychosocial stressors, particularly unemployment, financial hardship, strained family relationships, and social isolation during the pandemic. Many participants described difficulty managing responsibilities, maintaining healthy relationships, or coping with chronic stress, which intensified their symptoms. External circumstances influenced their ability to concentrate, maintain energy, and sustain emotional regulation, leading to ongoing distress. Research consistently shows that stressful environments worsen psychiatric symptoms and delay recovery unless protective supports are in place (Beck, 2021).
Reflection on the Experience
At the beginning of the group session, the participant’s body language revealed high levels of discomfort. Several sat with crossed arms, avoided eye contact, and maintained closed postures. This reflected anxiety, hesitation, and a reluctance to share openly. As the session progressed, body language gradually shifted. Participants leaned forward, nodded as others spoke, and made more consistent eye contact, signaling increased comfort and trust within the group. This change reflected the development of a supportive and accepting environment. I believe the session was beneficial because participants demonstrated visible relief when they realized others shared similar struggles. In my observation, this process promoted greater willingness to communicate openly, which is essential for therapeutic progress and long-term recovery.
Benefits and Rationale
The benefits of this exercise were evident through participant engagement, peer support, and the gradual adoption of positive coping skills. Group therapy enables individuals to share their experiences, compare strategies, and support one another, thereby strengthening resilience and enhancing coping effectiveness. Participants validated each other’s emotions, which promoted empowerment and reduced negative self-perceptions. Evidence supports group therapy as an effective intervention that improves treatment adherence, enhances problem-solving abilities, and promotes healthier relationships (Beck, 2021). The group also helped participants practice real-time interpersonal communication, which can transfer to relationships outside of therapy. Additionally, hearing multiple perspectives allowed members to consider alternative viewpoints, a key aspect of CBT.
Opportunities for Improvement
Future group sessions could be improved by incorporating digital tools and structured resources. The COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated that many individuals face barriers to in-person therapy, including health concerns, transportation issues, and scheduling conflicts. Telehealth platforms, such as Zoom or Microsoft Teams, have been effective in maintaining group therapy participation and improving accessibility (Brei et al., 2021). Interactive features, such as breakout rooms, could allow participants to share in smaller groups, fostering deeper connections. Additionally, digital resources such as mindfulness applications, mood-tracking tools, and bilingual options could increase inclusivity and promote ongoing engagement outside therapy hours. Providing participants with worksheets or follow-up digital reminders could further reinforce coping strategies discussed in the session.
References
Beck, J. S. (2021). Cognitive behavior therapy: Basics and beyond (3rd ed.). Guilford Press.
Brei, B. K., Neches, S., Gray, M. M., Handley, S., Castera, M., Hedstrom, A., & Umoren, R. (2021). Telehealth training during the COVID-19 pandemic: A feasibility study of large group multiplatform telesimulation training. Telemedicine and e-Health, 27(10), 1166-1173. https://doi.org/10.1089/tmj.2020.0357
Corey, G. (2021). Theory and practice of group counseling (10th ed.). Cengage Learning.
Muench, A., Vargas, I., Grandner, M. A., Ellis, J. G., Posner, D., Bastien, C. H., Drummond, S. P., & Perlis, M. L. (2022). We know CBT-I works, now what? Faculty Reviews, 11, 4. https://doi.org/10.12703/r/11-4
CLICK HERE TO ORDER A PLAGIARISM-FREE PAPER
Directions:
Objectives
Student will;
- Participate in 60 min of group therapy as the group leader or observer.
- Identify theoretical approach
- Identify interventions
- Identify target population of the group
- Identify common diagnosis
- Identify common psychosocial factors that influence participants mental health
Reflection:
- The student will reflect on their own personal experience during this exercise. What was the initial body language of the participants in the group before and after? Does the student believe that this exercise was beneficial for the participants? Give the rational. What would you do to improve the experience? Think about the current pandemic and platforms/tools that can be incorporated to enhance the group experience.
Submission requirement: APA format, title page, reference page if resources used,1-2 pages (excluding title & reference page)
24/7 Nursing Help Online – Fast, Reliable, and Expert-Approved.
From NCLEX prep to clinical advice, get instant nursing help from licensed professionals. Trusted by students and nurses worldwide.
