Therapy groups and group therapy
Therapy groups bring people together to talk, listen and reflect with others who share something of their experience, with a therapist holding the space.
Alongside individual therapy, I offer group therapy for organisations and groups – such as charities, recovery communities and staff or client groups – where the work is appropriate.
Michael Swales
MBACP, NCPS Acc.In-person therapy in London
Online therapy
across the UKIndividual therapy
from £75Couples therapy
from £95
Who it’s for
Therapeutic groups for organisations and communities
Group therapy may suit settings where people are going through something similar – for example within a recovery community, a support organisation, or a staff team in a demanding role.
Each group is shaped around the people taking part, the setting and the purpose of the work, rather than following a fixed format.
If you are an individual looking to join a group, please get in touch to ask what is currently available. For one-off or educational sessions, see workshops and group sessions.
In the group
What therapeutic group work can involve
-
Hearing that others have had similar experiences
-
Practising speaking and listening in a safe setting
-
Reflecting together on shared pressures
-
Support for people in recovery
-
Exploring relationships and communication
-
Talking about shame, stress or isolation
-
Building trust within a group over time
-
Learning from different perspectives
-
A space held by a therapist
-
Boundaries agreed by the group
-
Combining individual and group therapy where helpful
What to expect
What to expect from group therapy
Before any group begins, its aims, membership, format and boundaries are agreed.
Groups work best with clear agreements about confidentiality and respect, which are discussed at the start. Members are invited to share at their own pace.
Group therapy is different from individual therapy: there is less time focused on one person, but the group itself becomes part of the work. Some people find it helpful to combine individual and group therapy.
Online group sessions may be possible, depending on the group and what would feel safe and useful.
About the therapist
Group work with Michael Swales
I am a therapist registered with BACP and NCPS, and my approach is integrative, relational and trauma-informed.
In groups, that means paying attention to safety, pace and the relationships between members, as well as to each person.
Experienced and accredited
Michael Swales is registered with professional bodies including BACP and NCPS, with additional training in relationship psychotherapy, somatic trauma therapy and addiction recovery.
Frequently asked questions
FAQs
Therapy groups are therapeutic groups in which people meet with a therapist to talk, listen and reflect together. The group itself becomes part of the support.
Group therapy is arranged with organisations and groups such as charities, social enterprises, recovery communities, and staff or client groups, where the work is appropriate.
Please get in touch to ask what is currently available. If there is not a suitable group, individual therapy may be another way to start.
Groups focused specifically on depression or social anxiety are not currently listed here. If you are looking for support with low mood or social anxiety, you are welcome to get in touch to talk about individual or group options.
Where and how a group meets is agreed for each piece of work, depending on the organisation and setting. Online sessions may also be possible.
Workshops are usually more structured and educational. Group therapy is more open and reflective, with the group itself as part of the work.
Fees for group therapy vary depending on the format, length, location and preparation required. Please get in touch to discuss what you need.
Get in touch
Take the next step when you're ready
Reaching out can feel like a big step, I offer a safe, confidential place to talk and explore what support might look like for you. Phone, email, video-call or in-person sessions – get in touch in whatever way suits you.
Email
info@michaelswales.com
Response time
I aim to respond to within 1 working day.
I'll be happy to hear from you.
Your details are secure and will never be shared.
This form is confidential.