What is Group Therapy?
If you have been feeling disconnected, stuck or not quite like yourself lately – you do not have to work it all out on your own. The suite of group therapy programs at Child & Family Matters offers something many of us need more of: connection, structure and a safe space to show up just as you are. If group therapy feels unfamiliar or a bit daunting, that is completely normal. Here is what you can expect from our programs at Child & Family Matters.
Group therapy may be different from what you might think
We often hear things like:
“Will I have to talk in front of everyone?”
“What if I don’t fit in?”
“What if it’s too much?”
These are all fair questions.
Here is what group therapy is not:
- A space where you have to share everything straight away.
- A place where one person dominates the group.
- A replacement for your individual therapy.
- A loose, unstructured chat with strangers.
- Being put on the spot to talk about things you are unprepared to discuss.
Group therapy is:
- A safe and supportive space.
- A space with clear boundaries and consistent support.
- A place where everyone is treated equally and no one is left out.
What to expect in group therapy
Our groups are small (capped at 8 people) and co-facilitated by two empathic and skilled psychologists. The facilitators take turns in leading the session and observing the “emotional thermometer” in the room. You are supported every step of the way, whether you are actively or passively participating in the group. You are not expected to talk straight away. In fact, it is common for participants to spend the first few sessions simply listening. We cultivate a safe environment to just be.
Over time, you might notice:
- You feel less alone.
- You start trusting others and yourself.
- You become more aware of your feelings, and how your body responds.
- You start to feel safe, in a real, grounded way.
That moment of “It’s not just me” is incredibly powerful and often where the real healing begins.
Safety comes first, always
At the start of each program, we set clear group agreements. These guide how we show up and support each other.
You can share as much or as little as you want.
You will never be asked to do anything if you are not ready to do so.
If something feels difficult, your facilitators are there to help each step of the way.
Meet your facilitators
Our group programs are co-facilitated by:
Counselling & Clinical Psychologist and Director at Child & Family Matters. Latika has deep experience supporting people through trauma, emotional overwhelm and life transitions.
Provisional Psychologist with a warm, grounded approach and strong experience in trauma-informed care.
One facilitator runs the group. The other supports by observing and gently guiding. You will be seen and supported.
How our group therapy program works
We offer a three-stage group therapy program in Brisbane.
1: Intro program
This is a rolling 6-week program designed to ease you into group therapy. You can join at any time between April and December and attend as many rounds as you need.
This group helps you:
- Learn the flow and structure of group work.
- Build routine and emotional safety.
- Get more comfortable being in a shared space.
Before commencing the program, you will meet with Dr. Manuela to complete an individual intake session (60-90 minutes). During the intake, Dr. Manuela will walk you through the program, check in about your treatment goals and conduct a suitability assessment to check if group therapy is right for you, and if this is the right time for you to commence group treatment. It is also the perfect time for you to ask questions about the group(s).
2: Closed Group (10 weeks)
This is a deeper, structured group focused on trauma recovery and relational safety.
- Same group of people every week.
- No new joiners once the group begins.
- 2-hour sessions with space for deeper reflection and processing.
You’ll explore:
- How your nervous system responds to connection.
- How past experiences shape your current relationships.
- How to stay grounded while being seen and supported by others.
Next programs runs from 2 June – 4 August, with a second intake starting 25 August.
3: Maintenance Group
This is a group for participants who want a space in which they can continue with treatment goals. It is a safe space to stay connected, supported and reflective.
It’s ongoing and you can stay as long as it is helpful.
Begins October 2025.
Is group therapy right for me?
Our group therapy programs are ideal for people who:
- Are feeling disconnected or isolated.
- Want a gentle introduction to therapy or a complement to their individual work.
- Are ready to start exploring connection and relational support.
- Have done some emotional work and are looking to go deeper in a structured, safe space.
Cost and Medicare rebates
Our group sessions are low-cost at $50/hour.
You may also be eligible for a Medicare rebate for up to 10 group sessions per calendar year. Your GP or Psychiatrist can help you with this.
Want to learn more?
You can read more about the program or email us at hello@childfamily.com.au to ask questions or express interest.