What is Group therapy?

Group therapy is a powerful method of growth and change, that brings together a group of people in order to carry forward a therapeutic process. The members of the group may share: a common problem; an objective or a similar moment in their life cycle. Whichever the challenge they are dealing with, it is worked with within the group. The main objective is for all members to gain greater awareness, recognize and develop their skills, capacities and potential both on an individual, group and relational level.

How does it work?

Different groups, depending on their objectives, function in different ways. Nevertheless, there is a common structure that is present in every group. To start with, a group of 6 to 12 persons is formed, with a common goal and who can benefit by group therapy. The sessions take place every two weeks or weekly and they last 1 ½ or 2 hours.  The therapists acts as a facilitator and guide, introducing subjects to work on, offering information, sharing insights and guiding the process. The content of all sessions is confidential. Mutual trust, respect and confidentiality are essential elements for the group’s progress.

How can it help me?

The group provides its’ members with a safe and constructive space to: express thoughts, feelings and ideas freely; give and receive support and understanding; gain greater awareness about oneself and others; share problems and find solutions; come in contact with new thoughts, ideas and viewpoints about oneself, life and world. The group is also useful for each person to widen his or her social web and explore new ways to relate and interact with others. Group work can be a very good complement or even alternative to individual therapy. At the end of the day, we all live in the company of others and most of our difficulties are rooted in our social and relational experiences.

Most common issues dealt with in Group Therapy

Most people can benefit by a group therapy process. Some of the issues we most commonly work with are:
• Relationship difficulties
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Grief
• Traumas
• Affective disorders
• Addictions
• Etc.

Besides working with specific difficulties, group therapy can also focus on different areas of personal development and growth. In Hestia we have been carrying forward a variety of group work:

• “Communicating with our Emotions”
• “Making decisions, creating our destinies”
• “Useful Communication Tools”
• “Unemployed in XXI centrury”
• “Fibromialgy”
• “Carers of dependent family members”
• “Self-esteem”
• “Being a foreigner in Barcelona”
• “Intercultural Couples”
• “Overcoming Infidelity”
• “New Parenthood”
• “Music therapy for preignant women”
• “Young individuals diagnosed with psychotic disorders”

Service offered in: English, Spanish/Castellano

What should my next step be in case I’m interested?

In case you need more information about the groups cited above, you may consult the “Activities” section of our page. If you would like to participate in any of the groups or would like to receive more information about them, you may let us know via email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , phone: 934592802 or via our on-line information document.
Also, you may ask for a free informative visit with one of the centre’s group therapists, who will be able to further inform you and clarify possible doubts regarding Group Therapy.