Challenges in Group Therapy as a Leader

Challenges in Group Therapy as a Leader
Communication is a crucial element of group therapy. However, often, a therapist can encounter a group member who is unwilling to speak or participate in any of the group’s activities. In such situations, it can become incredibly challenging for the therapist because interaction is a crucial aspect of group counseling. Silence in therapy can be a product of several factors, including being unfamiliar with a topic or second-guessing oneself, which then transitions to a lack of confidence. Other times, silence can be brought about by the need to take in the topic and formulate a response. However, regardless of the factors described above, silence is a detriment or an impairment to therapy and could limit the success of an entire session. As a therapist and facing a silent participant, one ought to be careful not to alienate the member further. So, it is crucial to consider strategies that can help invoke participation from the member. Provided herein is a discussion of how a therapist can encourage participation from a silent participant in group therapy.
One method that can be of use in group therapy to encourage the silent member to participate is the use of cards to acquire anonymous answers or input from the members. The idea of input being anonymous is likely to spur action from every member since no one is made to feel exposed. In their research, Ong and Weiss (2000) discovered that anonymity in responses, especially on sensitive questions, leads to more genuine answers from participants. Therefore, this can be put to the test to help every member to feel comfortable as they give their responses.
Secondly, more group activities can be introduced. These group activities can be structured in a way that every member takes a leading role whenever it is their turn. So, the silent participant could, for example, have a day where they take a leading role in their group. This way, they get to not only be a participant but also be encouraged to speak as a leader of whichever activity their group will have. Gans and Counselman (2015) note that silence often communicates a defense mechanism where one seeks to remain within their own space. However, the researchers further indicate that it communicates favourable group work conditions. Therefore, a therapist can leverage this to introduce more group activities.
In conclusion, silent participants are a common feature in group therapy. However, this should not deter or prevent the counseling process. With the introduction of the strategies outlined above, a therapist is likely to encourage or spur action from such members.
References
Gans, J., & Counselman, E. (2015). Silence in Group Psychotherapy: A Powerful Communication. International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, Vol. 50, Issue 1, pp. 71-86. https://doi.org/10.1080/00207284.2000.11490982
Ong, A., & Weiss, D. (2000). The Impact of Anonymity on Responses to Sensitive Question...