Individual Therapy vs. Group Therapy: You Don’t Have to Choose “One or the Other”
If you’ve ever thought, “Individual therapy is probably better than group therapy,” you’re not alone. A lot of people assume group therapy is not as effective as individual work.
But in my experience working with men struggling with pornography and unwanted sexual behaviors, group therapy is a crucial part of recovery. Not because it replaces individual therapy (which I deeply believe in), but because it offers something many men are missing: safe community.
What’s the difference?
Individual therapy is one-on-one. It can be especially helpful if you’re:
in a crisis
working through something very personal you are not ready to share with others
needing focused attention and individualized support
Group therapy still includes a therapist guiding the process—but you’re also surrounded by other men who understand what it’s like to struggle. And for a lot of guys, it can be very healing.
Why group therapy can be so healing
Shame grows in secrecy. Loneliness makes recovery harder. And when you feel like you’re the only one dealing with particular issues, it’s easy to lose hope.
Group therapy helps interrupt that pattern by offering:
Real accountability (not just “try harder,” but steady support)
Encouragement from people who get it
New perspectives (sometimes others can see your blind spots)
Less shame as you experience acceptance while being honest
Less isolation because you’re not carrying this alone anymore
A healthy group reminds you: what you’re struggling with is not some unique issue only you deal with, and you’re not beyond help.
Where to find a group
If you’re already in individual therapy, a great first step is simply asking your therapist for recommendations since they know what may be a good fit for you. If you’re not, directories like Psychology Today can be a helpful place to start: Psychology Today Groups
If you’re looking for a Christian men’s group
If you’re a Christian man looking for support around pornography or unwanted sexual behaviors, my practice offers online group options, including:
A Tuesday evening group
A Thursday evening group
If you’d like details, you can reach me at alex@primochristiantherapy.com or visit my website for upcoming groups by clicking HERE.