Group Therapy for Middle Schoolers
By Margie Frisco, MA, LPC-Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S Group therapy for middle schoolers can be a great help! Group therapy is a place where they can talk with kids like them. They can relate to each other and hear kids their age explain how they got through difficult times. Group therapy allows middle schoolers to find help from someone their age.
Why is Group Therapy for Middle Schoolers Helpful?
Some middle schoolers would prefer not to have to listen to another adult. They have to focus all day on listening to teachers. Then they come home and listen, sometimes, to parents. Authority figures or adults for middle schoolers are everywhere. In group therapy, sure, there is a therapist there. But for the most part, they see other kids their age in the group. Group therapy gives middle schoolers a space to discuss their concerns with people their age. They can see that others feel or experience similar situations. Validation can help them truly not feel alone.
Group Therapy Acceptance for Middle Schoolers
Acceptance is something that some middle schoolers want. Remember when you were in middle school? It can be hard to find acceptance from our classmates. In group therapy, rules state this is a space for acceptance and respect. Rules put into place that we have to be respectful to each member. Another way acceptance is shown is by allowing each member to participate how they want to. For example, for some shy individuals, we do not force them to talk or join in. They are allowed to join in when they feel comfortable. As a parent, we want to ensure they are growing and learning. Your child sitting and listening to others' experiences can be therapeutic by itself. For instance, if a group member is quiet but then listens to another explain how they felt nervous making a speech or talking. This helps them understand, from someone their age, that they are not alone. That can be validating to your child.
Group Therapy Accountability for Middle Schoolers
Group therapy also provides a space for middle schoolers to discover accountability. I know your student hears about accountability at school from teachers, coaches, and parents. But for a middle schooler to listen to a peer to keep their side of the deal, that can be extremely impactful. Peer pressure is something that we talk about in the group. Our classmates can influence us for many reasons. We go over analyzing the pressure to make sure it is safe first. Also, we go over what is appropriate pressure. But if our classmates and friends are trying to help us see when we could do more, that can help motivate them in the healthy direction.
Group Therapy Different Perspectives for Middle Schoolers
Furthermore, perspective is another healthy tool to gain from the group. Middle schoolers learn to hear others' views on each topic. We talk about each perspective respectfully. This helps the children learn how to disagree peacefully and to analyze their own thoughts as well as others. Perspective is one of those things that can help with confidence and help us grow and develop. For example, if another child in the group has an opinion about a topic and your child agrees, they could feel validated and boost their confidence. On the other hand, a member could say a point that opens up more thinking for your child. We work together to help open our minds and learn.
Begin Group Counseling at Our Center in Katy, TX!
If you would like more help with group counseling for a middle schooler, one of the therapists at The Counseling Center at Cinco Ranch can help! To begin counseling in Katy, Texas, follow these three steps:
- Contact our office to set up an appointment or get more information on parenting.
- Meet with one of our understanding therapists
- Find other ways to help your middle schooler with group therapy today!
Other Therapy Services We Offer:
Here at The Counseling Center at Cinco Ranch, we offer counseling services for people of all ages in areas including counseling for kids, counseling for young adults, teen counseling, couples counseling, eating disorder treatment, men's issues, women's issues, anxiety treatment, depression therapy, trauma counseling, family therapy, and group counseling. We provide helpful information on a variety of mental health topics. Our therapists strive to post blogs regularly. To learn more about our therapists and counseling services, please reach out to the Counseling Center today!