Do I have to talk about myself in the group from the start?

No. You determine your own pace. Many participants mainly listen at the beginning — this is also effective, as you recognise yourself in the experiences of others.

Is group therapy less effective than individual therapy?

No, for many conditions studies show comparable effectiveness. The group even offers its own therapeutic factors, such as exchange with people in similar situations and honest feedback.

How confidential is what I share?

Confidentiality is a binding rule: all participants commit not to share anything from the group outside, and the therapist is bound by professional confidentiality.

What is the difference from a self-help group?

Group therapy is led by a trained psychotherapist and follows a therapeutic concept. Self-help groups organise themselves and thrive on mutual exchange — both can complement each other well.

Can I combine group and individual therapy?

Yes, this is common and often sensible: individual therapy offers space for personal exploration, the group for practising contact with others. Discuss the combination with your treating professionals.

Group Therapy — Procedure, Preparation & Cost

In group therapy, several people with similar or quite different concerns work together under professional guidance. The group itself becomes a therapeutic factor: you experience that you are not alone with your difficulties, receive honest feedback, and can try out new behaviours in a safe setting. For many conditions, it is similarly effective as individual therapy.

Typical Areas of Use

Depressive moods
Anxiety and insecurity in contact with others
Exhaustion and stress-related problems
Eating disorders
Coping with chronic illnesses

How It Works

1Before joining, an individual meeting takes place: the therapist clarifies your concerns and determines which group suits you.
2The group meets regularly — usually weekly — in a fixed composition of about six to ten participants, led by one or two professionals.
3In the sessions, participants bring up their topics; depending on the approach, there is free discussion, targeted practice, or work with structured elements.
4The therapist ensures a safe framework in which feedback remains respectful and everyone has the opportunity to speak — confidentiality is a binding rule for all.
5The conclusion is prepared: What are you taking away, what do you want to continue in everyday life?

How to Prepare

No special preparation is needed — a willingness to listen and to gradually contribute is enough.
Bring your insurance card to the preliminary interview and, if available, the medical referral.
If you have concerns about speaking in front of others, mention this in the preliminary interview — this is common and can be well addressed.

Side Effects & Risks

Opening up in front of others takes courage at first and can temporarily trigger tension.
Feedback from the group can be moving or sometimes hurtful — the facilitator ensures that it remains constructive.
Not every group suits every person; if you persistently do not feel comfortable, speak up.
Speaking time is shared among several people — those who need a lot of individual space are often better served with individual therapy or a combination.

Afterwards — and When to Seek Help

After sessions, conversations and feedback often continue to resonate — thoughtfulness or strong emotions are normal and usually subside quickly. What is discussed in the group stays in the group; this applies to you as well. Contact the group facilitator if you are repeatedly very distressed after sessions, no longer feel safe in the group, or if your symptoms deteriorate significantly — in acute crises, the emergency number 144 or Dargebotene Hand (telephone 143) are available at any time.

Cost & Insurance

Group psychotherapy is covered by basic health insurance in the same way as individual therapy: for psychological psychotherapists with a medical referral, for psychiatrists directly. The deductible and co-payment apply as usual. Pure self-help groups without professional guidance are not covered by health insurance, but are often free or low-cost. This is for guidance only without guarantee — if in doubt, check with your insurer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to talk about myself in the group from the start?: No. You determine your own pace. Many participants mainly listen at the beginning — this is also effective, as you recognise yourself in the experiences of others.
Is group therapy less effective than individual therapy?: No, for many conditions studies show comparable effectiveness. The group even offers its own therapeutic factors, such as exchange with people in similar situations and honest feedback.
How confidential is what I share?: Confidentiality is a binding rule: all participants commit not to share anything from the group outside, and the therapist is bound by professional confidentiality.
What is the difference from a self-help group?: Group therapy is led by a trained psychotherapist and follows a therapeutic concept. Self-help groups organise themselves and thrive on mutual exchange — both can complement each other well.
Can I combine group and individual therapy?: Yes, this is common and often sensible: individual therapy offers space for personal exploration, the group for practising contact with others. Discuss the combination with your treating professionals.