Feeling overwhelmed navigating the world as a young adult? Or are you the parent of a teen who’s struggling? Either way, you’re not alone, and group therapy sessions can help.
Navigating the complexities of being a young person can be tough, and sometimes talking to someone who understands can make a world of difference. Group therapy is a powerful option that offers a supportive space to connect with peers facing similar challenges.
Here at Love Play Grow, our mission is to nurture growth through every stage of life. We believe in the power of play therapy and other evidence-based professional counseling techniques, and we’ve seen firsthand how therapy can help people thrive.
Here, we’ll focus on group therapy for teens and young adults in New Jersey. Group sessions can be incredibly beneficial, fostering a sense of belonging, shared experience, and valuable peer support.
Compared to individual therapy, group sessions can be more cost-effective, and sharing perspectives with others can provide valuable insights and encouragement. But finding the right group therapist is crucial to ensure a good fit for your needs.
Here, you’ll meet our New Jersey group therapists, each who have expertise in working with teens and young adults. This can help you get a sense of which therapist might be the right fit to support your journey toward healing and growth.
Not sure if group therapy is the best fit? We understand. Love Play Grow offers a complimentary Get Started Call to help you explore all your options.
5 highly recommended New Jersey group therapists
Kerri Adams, LPC, RPT, MARI, EMDR
Co-Owner, Child & Family Therapist
- Credentials: Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Registered Play Therapist (RPT)
- Education: Master’s Degree from New Jersey City University
- Modalities Used: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), Play Therapy
- Specialty Areas: Autism Spectrum Disorders, Family Trauma, Mindfulness and Meditation, Perinatal Mental Health, Performance Anxiety, Sports-Related Anxiety
Christina Eromenok, LCSW, RPT
Co-Owner, Child & Family Therapist
- Credentials: Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Registered Play Therapist (RPT)
- Education: Master’s Degree in Social Work from Fordham University
- Modalities Used: Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (T-CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), Play Therapy
- Specialty Areas: Children with Disabilities, Navigating the Special Education Process, Trauma
Rachel Prager, LSW
Child & Family Therapist
- Credentials: New Jersey Licensed Social Worker (LSW), New York Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW)
- Education: Master’s Degree in Social Work from Rutgers University
Beth Mitatov, LSW
Child & Family Therapist
- Credentials: Licensed Social Worker (LSW)
- Education: Master’s Degree in Social Work from Ramapo College of New Jersey
- Specialty Areas: ADHD, Anxiety, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Grief and Loss
Veronika Midthassel, LSW
Child & Family Therapist
- Credentials: Licensed Social Worker (LSW)
- Education: Master’s Degree in Social Work from Rutgers University
- Specialty Areas: Social Skills, Crisis Intervention
FAQs about group therapy
Who is group counseling for?
There are therapy groups for all kinds of different challenges and needs. Currently, group therapy at Love Play Grow is for teens and young adults ages 13-20 experiencing issues like:
- Relationship issues,
- Bullying,
- Peer pressure,
- ADHD,
- Anxiety, and
- Depression.
We’ve included some resources below if you’re looking for other group therapy options.
What's the difference between support groups and therapy groups?
While both support groups and therapy groups offer a sense of community and shared experience, there are some key differences between them:
- Focus: Support groups focus on support & shared experiences, while therapy groups aim for personal growth with a therapist’s guidance.
- Structure: Support groups are less structured with open discussions, while therapy groups are facilitated by a therapist using techniques.
- Goals: Support groups help with coping, therapy groups aim for change & managing challenges.
Ultimately, both support groups and therapy groups can be valuable resources. If you’re not sure whether group therapy is right for you or your teen, contact us today.
What can I expect in a group therapy session?
In a group therapy session, you can expect a supportive atmosphere where everyone has the opportunity to share their experiences.
The therapist will usually guide the session with a loose structure, starting with introductions or check-ins to see how everyone is doing. The discussion might then focus on a specific topic related to common challenges faced by the group, or the therapist might help process issues brought up by individual members.
Activities like role-playing or journaling exercises might be used to delve deeper into certain topics.
Is group therapy confidential?
Yes, confidentiality is a core principle of group therapy. This means that anything you share in the group will be kept private by the therapist and other group members. However, there are a few important exceptions:
- Safety concerns: If the therapist believes you or someone else is at risk of harming themselves or others, they may need to break confidentiality to ensure safety. This could involve contacting emergency services or informing appropriate authorities.
- Legal requirements: In rare cases, therapists may be legally obligated to report certain information, such as child abuse or neglect.
It’s important to discuss confidentiality with your therapist at the beginning of group therapy. They will explain the group’s specific confidentiality guidelines in detail. You can also ask any questions you have about what information is considered confidential and when confidentiality might be broken.
What if I'm nervous about talking in front of others?
It’s completely normal to feel nervous about talking in front of others, especially in a new group setting! Many people share this concern when starting group therapy. The good news is that therapists who lead group sessions understand this anxiety and are skilled at creating a safe and supportive environment where everyone feels comfortable participating at their own pace.
Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- There’s no pressure to talk right away. You can simply listen and observe during the first few sessions to get a feel for the group dynamic.
- The therapist will encourage participation, but won’t force it. They will create opportunities for you to share as much or as little as you feel comfortable with.
- Everyone in the group is likely there because they share some common experiences or challenges. This can create a sense of connection and understanding that can make it easier to open up.
If you’re feeling particularly anxious, you can always talk to your therapist beforehand. They can offer additional tips and support to help you feel more comfortable participating in group discussions.
Additional resources for finding therapy groups in NJ
Looking for a different kind of group? Here are some more resources to explore.
Drug and Alcohol Abuse Groups:
Mental Health Groups:
Additional Resources:
- The National Institute of Mental Health is a great resource for information about mental health conditions and treatment options for teens and young adults.
- The Jed Foundation is a national organization dedicated to promoting emotional health and preventing suicide among teens and young adults. They offer resources and support specifically for teens and young adults.
- The Trevor Project is a national organization that provides crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to LGBTQ+ youth.
Find your safe space through group therapy.
Group therapy can be a powerful tool for teens and young adults navigating the challenges of growing up. It offers a supportive environment where you (or your teen) can connect with peers, share experiences, and learn coping strategies.
Remember, you’re not alone. Many teens and young adults struggle with similar challenges. If you’re considering group therapy, take the first step today. We offer complimentary Get Started Calls to help you explore all your options for finding the right support.
Don’t hesitate to prioritize your (or your loved one’s) mental health and well-being. We’re here to support you in growing toward a healthier, happier future.
