Group Therapy

Group Therapy services offered in Gig Harbor, WA

Recovery and personal growth can sometimes feel isolating, but Andrew’s Compassionate Legacy offers group therapy that ensures you don’t have to go through it alone. Board-certified nurse practitioner Dr. Gina Hardage-Athetis, MSc, FNP-CB, PsyD, PhD, uses telehealth and office based treatment to support you no matter where you are in the state of Washington. Group therapy allows you to connect with others to share experiences, learn new skills, and encourage one another in a supportive environment. For personalized care, book your appointment today via the online scheduler or by phone.

Group Therapy Q&A

What is group therapy?

In group therapy, Dr. Hardage-Athetis leads you and a small group in discussing challenges, experiences, and strategies to improve mental health and recovery. 

Group sizes vary, but the aim is always to offer support and work toward similar goals such as overcoming substance use, managing stress, improving relationships, or building healthier habits.

During group therapy sessions, you can share your experiences, listen to others, and provide mutual support. Dr. Hardage-Athetis guides the discussion, helps maintain a respectful and safe environment, and introduces tools and techniques to help group members move forward in recovery or personal growth.

What are the benefits of group therapy?

Some of the biggest benefits of group therapy are:

Connection

If you face substance use disorder or mental health challenges, hearing from others with similar experiences can help you feel less alone.

Peer support and encouragement

You can learn from other participants’ successes, setbacks, and coping strategies. Seeing others make progress can be motivating and help build hope for one’s own recovery.

New perspectives

In one-on-one therapy, you hear primarily from Dr. Hardage-Athetis. In group therapy, you gain insights from multiple people who may approach challenges in different ways with new possible solutions.

Better communication

Because sessions involve discussion and interaction, you have a safe place to practice expressing your thoughts, listening actively, setting boundaries, and responding with empathy. You may be surprised by what a difference this can make in your communication and interpersonal skills. 

Accountability

When you share goals with others in the group, you may feel more motivated to stay committed to positive changes.

What can I expect from group therapy?

If you’re new to group therapy, it’s normal to feel a little unsure, but most sessions follow a structured format guided by Dr. Hardage-Athetis. 

The group begins with a brief check-in where members share how they’ve been doing since the last meeting. Next, Dr. Hardage-Athetis introduces a topic for discussion. You can share experiences, ask questions, and support one another through conversation and feedback.

Over time, many find that group therapy becomes a place of trust, encouragement, and growth. Learn more by booking online or calling the office to get started.