The short answer to the concerns you raise is for you to talk with your therapist about why he recommended group therapy for you. Generally speaking, though, there are many excellent reasons to consider group therapy, either as an alternative or adjunct to individual therapy. Groups come in many varieties. These groups enable individuals to access various aspects of their personalities in a way that individual therapy does not. Group therapy is particularly powerful in its ability to give members the sense that they are not alone or unique.
Groups also instill a sense of support and hope, with members learning from each other.
The fact that they have and disclose problems of their own helps them to understand and assist you. Their lack of connection with the rest of your life further lifts the concern about confidentiality. In fact, we believe so much in the efficacy and healing powers of the group process that we are now offering a number of groups, led by mental health professionals on LCL staff in our Boston office. We also make referrals to alternative or longer term groups.