Group therapy is a powerful way to heal, grow, and connect with others who share similar struggles. If you’ve been curious about the process, you may wonder: what does the working stage of group therapy look like?
In this blog, we’ll explore the working stage in detail, explain why it’s considered the most productive phase, and show how it can transform individuals and groups alike.
Group therapy typically unfolds in four main stages:
Forming (Orientation stage) – Members get to know each other, establish trust, and set goals.
Storming (Conflict stage) – Differences may surface, and members may struggle with vulnerability.
Working stage – The most productive phase where deeper healing and growth occur.
Termination stage – Wrapping up, reflecting on progress, and preparing to transition forward.
This article focuses on the working stage, where members actively engage in meaningful change.
For a deeper look at activities within group sessions, check out our blog: 15 Group Therapy Activities for Teens.
The working stage of group therapy is when members begin to feel safe, connected, and ready to explore deeper emotions. Trust has already been established, so individuals can share openly without fear of judgment.
In this stage, group members:
Express emotions honestly.
Offer and receive constructive feedback.
Practice new coping skills.
Support each other through shared struggles.
This is where therapy becomes transformative. People often notice breakthroughs, stronger connections, and long-term growth during this stage.
Here are some signs you’ve reached the working stage in group therapy:
Members openly discuss personal struggles, such as depression, anxiety, or trauma. They no longer hesitate to share feelings.
Related service: Counseling Services
Members give each other respectful, honest feedback. This helps individuals recognize unhealthy patterns and make better choices.
Learn more about how feedback is guided by professionals in our Group Therapy Services.
The group becomes a safe place to process emotions like grief, anger, or fear. Guided by a therapist, members practice regulation and coping strategies.
Related service: Grief and Loss Therapy
There’s a sense of unity within the group. Members feel they are part of something bigger and encourage each other’s growth.
This bonding is crucial for lasting recovery. Explore more in our Family Therapy services.
Members practice communication skills, boundary setting, and conflict resolution. These lessons carry over into daily life, improving relationships at home, work, and school.
Explore: Couples and Marriage Therapy.
The working stage is often described as the “heart” of group therapy. This phase allows members to:
Achieve personal breakthroughs.
Build long-lasting connections.
Gain confidence in applying coping skills outside of therapy.
According to the American Psychological Association, group therapy is highly effective for conditions like depression, anxiety, and trauma because members benefit from both professional guidance and peer support.
Members face difficult emotions with support, which accelerates healing.
Sharing experiences reduces the sense of “I’m alone in this.”
Members practice new behaviors and celebrate progress, boosting self-esteem.
Group members hold each other accountable, helping them stay consistent with therapy goals.
You don’t have to wait for life to feel overwhelming. Group therapy can help with:
If you’ve been searching for “group therapy near me,” Munster Behavioral Health offers sessions at both Munster clinic and Merrillville clinic.
Research shows that 75% of people who enter therapy benefit from it (NIH). In group therapy, the working stage amplifies this success by providing both professional support and peer encouragement.
If you’re asking yourself, what does the working stage of group therapy look like, the answer is simple: it looks like transformation, growth, and connection.
At Munster Behavioral Health, we provide professional Group Therapy along with a range of services, including:
Ready to experience the benefits of group therapy? Visit our Contact Page or call 219-356-2240 to schedule your confidential consultation.
The working stage is where group therapy truly shines. By fostering trust, feedback, emotional processing, and skill development, it helps individuals heal while building lasting support networks.
If you’re considering group therapy, now is the perfect time to take that step toward healing.