Group Therapy for Children and Teens
At our practice, we offer group therapy sessions designed to support children and teens in their emotional and social development. Our groups provide a safe, nurturing environment where young people can learn from each other, practise social skills, and develop emotional intelligence.
Popular Evidence-Based Groups We Offer
Our clinic provides a range of evidence-based group programmes tailored to the needs of children and teens. Some of our popular programmes include:
Secret Agent Society (SAS)
A social skills programme for 8 to 12-year-olds with social and emotional challenges, including those with Autism Spectrum Disorders.
Cool Kids
=An anxiety management programme for children and adolescents aged 7 to 17.
PEERS®
(Program for the Education and Enrichment of Relational Skills)
A social skills intervention for teens and young adults.
Tuning in to Kids
=An emotion-focused parenting programme that teaches parents skills to help their children develop emotional intelligence.
Lego Social Skills Group
A programme that uses Lego-based activities to help children develop social skills, communication, and collaboration in a fun and engaging environment.
Superflex and the Unthinkables
==A cognitive-behavioural curriculum that helps children develop social thinking skills and strategies to regulate their behaviour.
GoZen
An online anxiety relief programme for children, offering animated videos and interactive activities to teach coping skills and build resilience.
Interested?
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Benefits of Group Therapy vs. Individual Therapy
While both group and individual therapy have their merits, group therapy offers unique advantages for children and teens:
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Peer Support
Children learn they're not alone in their struggles.
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Social Skills Practice
Real-time opportunities to interact and build relationships.
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Diverse Perspectives
Exposure to different viewpoints and coping strategies.
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Improved Self-Awareness
Observing others can lead to self-reflection.
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Cost-Effective
Often more affordable than individual sessions.
Individual therapy, on the other hand, provides:
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Focused Attention
One-on-one time with a psychologist.
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Tailored Approach
Treatment plans customised to individual needs.
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Privacy
Confidential space to discuss sensitive issues.
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Flexible Pacing
Progress at the child's own speed.
Choosing Between Group and Individual Therapy
Deciding between group and individual therapy depends on your child's specific needs and personality. Consider the following questions to help guide your decision:
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Does your child struggle to articulate their thoughts and feelings?
- Example: Your child has difficulty explaining why they feel upset or angry.
- Example: Your child often says "I don't know" when asked about their emotions.
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Does your child struggle to reflect on their actions and experiences?
- Example: Your child has trouble understanding how their behaviour affects others.
- Example: Your child rarely considers alternative solutions to problems.
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Does your child respond well to feedback or guidance from adults?
- Example: Your child is open to suggestions from teachers or coaches.
- Example: Your child can adjust their behaviour based on constructive criticism.
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Does your child engage well in group settings?
- Example: Your child actively participates in class discussions or team sports.
- Example: Your child enjoys collaborative activities with peers
If you answered "yes" to all of these questions, your child may benefit more from group therapy than individual therapy. Group settings can provide opportunities for your child to practise expressing themselves, learn from peers, receive diverse feedback, and engage in social interactions.
However, if you answered "no" to several questions, individual therapy might be a better starting point. It can provide a more focused environment to build foundational skills before transitioning to group therapy.
Remember, the best choice may involve a combination of both individual and group therapy. We encourage you to discuss your child's specific needs with one of our experienced psychologists to determine the most effective treatment plan.
Contact us today to book a consultation and learn more about our group and individual therapy options for children and teens.
Our Therapies
We use evidence-based therapeutic approaches tailored to the individual, helping people build understanding, practical skills, and meaningful change over time.
Why Choose Bear in Mind Psychology?
Experienced across the lifespan
We support children, teenagers and adults with assessment and therapy tailored to their stage of life and goals.
Clear answers and practical recommendations
Whether you come for therapy or assessment, we focus on giving you useful next steps for home, school, work, and everyday life.
Neuroaffirming and family-aware care
We take time to understand the whole person, including their strengths, differences, relationships, and environment.
Convenient Sunshine Coast Location
Easily accessible support in the heart of our community
Children
When big emotions, behaviour, or learning aren't clicking, we help families understand what's going on and build a plan that works
Teens
The teenage years can bring as many challenges as opportunities. We give young people a safe space to figure things out and build practical skills.
Adults
Whether it's anxiety that won't shift, a relationship that's not working, or a diagnosis you've been putting off, we're here to help.
