Interpersonal Process Group Therapy

From our earliest relationships, we learn to mute and conceal parts of ourselves that have not been received by others. We bring that forward in our social relations, unconsciously creating an image of ourselves that we show to others. Over time, there are parts of ourselves that feel unseen, misunderstood, or empty. Still, we find ourselves trapped in cyclical loops of unhelpful behaviours across different circumstances and relationships, despite having a strong desire to change and attempts at breaking the cycle. 

Process groups center us in the here-and-now, focusing on the dynamics between group members that unfold in real time. As group members interact with one another, everyone is slowly invited to reveal what we are afraid will be judged, rejected or abandoned. What is feared may be gently explored within the safe and unique space of process groups, guided by the group therapists. Process groups use the immediacy of responses by others as the path to understanding oneself through exploring interpersonal dynamics as they arise, practising new ways of relating and confronting unspoken emotional patterns. Process groups are therefore a lived experience rather than an abstract discussion, with a chance to alter one’s own interpersonal dynamics in a supportive space. 

There is profound learning and healing through emotional honesty, witnessed and joined by those alongside us. We also become a part of someone else’s intimate journey, not only contributing to their growth but also opening ourselves to new perspectives and observations that can alter our life in unexpected ways. Interpersonal learning is a powerful agent that allows for building deeper connections with others as well as learning how to tolerate and navigate interpersonal conflicts as they arise rather than avoiding them.