Individual vs Group Therapy
In many cultures around the world, group ceremonies and community settings have been a common container for healing work, whereas in modern society, individual sessions have become the more common approach to healing, self discovery, and personal insight. As the importance of community and connection becomes more widely recognized for health within modern society, there is a renewed interest in group based experiences.
At CMAT, we are looking forward to introducing group ketamine sessions as a way to foster connection and collective healing. This blog explores the benefits of both group and individual therapy, along with reflections from my own experience.
My previous group therapy experience was deeply meaningful. I journeyed alongside five other participants, and we were given the opportunity to share and understand each other’s intentions before the session began. This created a strong sense of connection and safety within the group.
During the experience, I felt supported not only by the facilitators, but also by the other participants. There was a sense of mutual encouragement, where we were each holding space for one another. This kind of shared experience can be especially helpful for individuals struggling with depression, loneliness, or isolation. It can also support those working through relational trauma, particularly when healing in connection with others is an important part of the process.
For me, one of the most impactful aspects of group therapy was the experience of being seen. Much of trauma is rooted in disconnection and aloneness, and being witnessed in my experience by others felt deeply healing. It helped reduce feelings of shame and created a sense of belonging.
There is also something uniquely meaningful about receiving support from fellow participants. Encouragement from others in the group can sometimes feel especially powerful, as it is offered freely and without expectation.
A common concern when considering group therapy is the fear of judgment. This is something that arises for me each time I participate in group work. However, I have found that openly acknowledging this fear and sharing it with the group can help foster a sense of acceptance and connection. In many cases, it becomes part of the healing process itself.
In addition to the relational benefits, group therapy is often a more cost effective option. It may also be particularly well suited for individuals who already have some experience with medicine assisted therapy.
Individual therapy, on the other hand, offers a greater sense of privacy and personal focus. There is a stronger emphasis on the therapeutic relationship, and clients receive the full attention of the therapist throughout the session.
This format can be especially beneficial for individuals working through complex trauma or attachment related challenges. It also allows for more space to explore personal material that may feel difficult to share in a group setting.
For those who are new to psychedelic therapy or feeling uncertain, individual sessions can provide a more contained and supportive environment. This can help reduce anxiety and allow for a more gradual introduction to the experience.
Another advantage of individual therapy is the ability to engage in a more inward focused journey. Group settings may include ambient noise or movement, which can sometimes be distracting. Individual sessions offer a quieter space that can support deeper internal exploration.
Ultimately, both group and individual therapy offer valuable and complementary pathways for healing. For those seeking connection and a more cost effective option, group therapy can provide powerful and often unexpected opportunities for growth. For those needing privacy, structure, or deeper individualized support, one on one sessions may be the better fit.
At CMAT, we believe in offering both options to meet clients where they are in their healing journey.
Written by: Christine Wong, CMAT Registered Nurse
