Often, the first week or two are spent with the counselor or psychologist getting a picture of who you are, what your life is like, and what the specific difficulties are. Often, the psychologist will try to help you reframe the problem into a goal that is manageable and achievable. Different coping strategies will be developed, tried, and adjusted to maximize success. Group psychotherapy provides a place where people can talk about what they are experiencing as a person living with MS without feeling like they are burdening anyone. Concerns about burden can be an issue for MS patients as well as for their family members or caregivers.
Group therapy can have many benefits.
In addition to being instructive, supportive, validating, and calming, the group setting provides a forum where individuals can profit from the experience of others. Group therapy should not be confused with support groups, which are usually run by non-professionals. Psychotherapy groups typically meet once a week for 60 - 90 m inutes and have a psychologist or counselor present to help the group maintain focus. In some instances, medications can be helpful. However, many people with chronic illnesses already take numerous medications and are reluctant to take yet another.