Gay Men’s Therapy Group

Group therapy allows the opportunity to learn and grow by paying attention to and interacting with others, enjoying camaraderie while finding new ways to have richer relationships. The group process provides a safe place to practice communicating, connecting, learning from mistakes, and celebrating successes so that you can confidently apply these social and relationship skills outside of the group. A central function of group therapy can be the development of healthy emotional attachment to others, which can lead to a healthier self-identity and greater satisfaction in relationships. Attachment is basically defined as the desire for and enjoyment of the presence of another, and healthy attachment has minimal to no fear of rejection or abandonment. This reduction in fear is the result of a balance of a solid sense of self with empathy for another.

All human beings can experience emotional and relationship problems due to issues of intimacy, fear of rejection, need for love and acceptance, effective communication, empathy, methods of conflict resolution, ability to express feelings and problems dealing with frustration, anger, resentment and jealousy. (1)   Unique elements that sometimes play an important role in psychological and relationship issues in the gay population include pressure or rejection by parents or other relatives, specific types of childhood trauma, cultural stereotyping, social disapproval, pressures to conceal sexual orientation and workplace harassment or discrimination. (1)

This group, meeting since April ’09, offers gay men a safe environment in which to explore both universal and gay-specific issues, such as disclosure of sexual orientation. Because disclosure is not a discreet and dramatic act, but a long-term process that encompasses both leaps of disclosure and continuous dialogues with others, during which the identity narrative is repeatedly reshaped and enriched with new meanings [2], group therapy can be a valuable resource to understand and accept one’s evolving identity. This is just one example of the rich topics that can be explored within group therapy.

Group participation depends on availability and appropriate fit between a client and the group. For these reasons, I require at least one individual session for clients seeking group therapy.

The group meets Mondays, 6:30-8:00 p.m. Please call for availability (512-789-6754).

References:

[1] Marvin S. Beitner, PhD. http://psychologydoc.com/gay-lesbian-gender_issues.htm

[2] Yoel Elizur, Arlette Mintzer. (April 01, 2001) A Framework For the Formation of Gay Male Identity: Processes Associated with Adult Attachment Style and Support From Family and Friends. Archives of Sexual Behavior.