Group Psychotherapy
“Could group work, using the resonating energy generated by several people at once, break through to the core of each member more intensively and more persistently than could individual therapy? The possibility was tremendously exciting” (Dr. John Pierrakos, Core Energetics, p229).
Groups are everywhere! We started our life in a group (our family) and many of our positive and negative experiences we learned with our family we take with us unconsciously from group to group. This is why Core process groups are so healing. Together we work on issues in ourselves that keep us separate from others, preventing enlivened, fulfilling relationships. Yes, these groups are supportive, but unlike support groups, our intention is also to elevate the energy level in the group and increase the level of consciousness.
Frequently Asked Questions about our Group Therapy
What is a process group?
A Core Energetics process group is group of people who meet regularly to work on their deepest issues within a supportive environment. The group leader is a qualified Core Energetics therapist.
What happens in a group?
A Group Energetics process group is based on body psychotherapy, so the session will be a combination of movement, expression, sharing, and processing. You will not always do an individual process every night, but will be expected to engage in the group therapy activities that evening. Often it is when we are supporting others, that we gain our biggest insights into our own process.
How long do I need to stay in the group?
The group is will be closed. This means that once the group forms, it will consist of the same group of people until someone leaves. You usually know within the first 3 months whether the group is right for you, and it can take up to this time for a sense of belonging to emerge. While you are settling in to the group you will have a chance to bring any feelings or concerns that are elicited from the group, back to the group for processing.
Benefits of group therapy?
Groups are a great way to fully experience how we relate to others. We get an opportunity to see our distortions, receive and give support, feel our own blocks to relating, take risks and learn new ways of connecting and relating.
Do I need to pay if I can’t attend a session?
Yes. This is for many reasons. Firstly it is to encourage attendance and also for people to be conscious about whether they want to stay in the group. Secondly, It’s also part of working on the commitment process, as this is why many people join groups. And finally, I will be there turning up, fully committed to work with everyone, so it is reasonable that I get paid for this.
What happens if I want to leave the Group?
If you are thinking of leaving the group for any reason, we recommend that you commit to at least one more group so you can get help in exploring unconscious reasons for leaving. It’s fine to leave the group at any time.
Do I still need individual therapy sessions.
Process groups are driven by group need and group dynamics which assist and accelerate individual process but do not replace it. Most group members would benefit from having individual sessions with their therapist from time to time as well.
For an interview, or for more information on our group therapy sessions, please contact Andrea Alexander 0422883410
“Core therapy works to tap energy as the ultimate healing agent. It sees the division within the sufferer and the group as a necessary outcome of the division within the sufferer, because the person who is alienated from himself denies the possibility of expansion and therefore of mutuality. He therefore will remain seprated and “safe” in his isolated state. When he does experience an impulse toward unification, he withdraws sooner or later in anxiety or panic. He throws up internal walls against perceiving the emotion and external walls against the person who has activated it”. Dr, John Pierrakos
