What
The Relational Concerns Group is an interpersonal process therapy group, consisting of up to 8 members and
the group leader. Its purpose is to provide an effective alternative
to individual psychotherapy for adults with concerns about their ability to make friends and/or sustain fulfilling relationships
with other adults.
Who
This group is for
men and women 25 and over who experience troubling patterns in relationships, such as prematurely ending friendships, rigid
roles (e.g., always the caretaker), feelings of alienation from others, and/or difficulty communicating. Anyone who desires
more connection, honesty or communication with others may benefit from this group. The group leader, Tina Gilbertson, is a mental health therapist with a master's degree in Counseling Psychology.
Note: If you suspect you may have social anxiety disorder, please also see the Portland Social Anxiety Group page. If you're unsure which group might be right for you, call or email Tina for a free consultation.
How
Process groups like this one harness the power of interrelationships among group members to bring about profound
self-awareness and opportunities to practice new behaviors - and to break painful patterns once and for all. Group therapy
does *not* mean taking turns receiving individual therapy from the group leader. Also, there are no structured exercises
or workbooks. Instead, the group setting provides a closely monitored and controlled social laboratory for members to
safely explore what typically happens between themselves and others, and to change hurtful patterns in current and future
relationships.
Why
The group provides numerous outlets (through numerous relationships) for healing
and personal growth. It is a powerful, affordable, high-quality alternative to personal counseling. The rewards of group
therapy can be equal to, or greater than, individual therapy. Improved self-esteem, better boundaries, and a greater
capacity for closeness are typical benefits of group therapy.
When
Current group meets Saturday mornings from 11am to 12:30pm. An additional, separate Wednesday night group is planned for
some time in 2010.
Where
Meetings take
place at 1235 SE Division St., Suite 207, Portland, OR 97202. Please see the Location page for a map, photos and access instructions.
Commitment
and Cost
A 3-month commitment is required. Group members are asked to attend every session, as absences are
disruptive to the group process. The monthly fee is $125, due at or before the first session of each month.
To Join
Send an email or call 503.544.6179 to set up an initial one-on-one interview. At this meeting, you will be invited to fill in an interest
questionnaire, and ask any further questions you may have about the group. If the fit is right for you, you may be asked to
attend a 2nd individual meeting to discuss how you can best benefit from your experience in the group. There is no charge
for the initial interview or the preparatory meeting.
Important note: There are times when adding new members would interrupt important work that's
being done in group. Once you're invited to join, your start date might be immediate, or there could be a delay of weeks or
even months. If a delay in starting the group would cause you significant distress, group therapy is likely not a good fit
for you at this time. Group therapy does not provide immediate relief from symptoms; it's more like a self-improvement program
that builds a foundation for a better life. Please see the Individual Therapy page and the therapy-related links on the Resources page for alternatives to group therapy.
