Why Group Counseling Works
Group counseling brings together small groups of people who share similar experiences, challenges, or goals. Guided by trained mental health counselors, these sessions create a structured, safe space where participants can practice communication, explore patterns, and receive feedback without judgment.
Many people feel hesitant at first about opening up in a group setting. But once they begin, most discover that the group becomes a source of strength, connection, and practical support. Research consistently shows that group counseling offers unique benefits, including:
- Connection and shared understanding: Feeling alone in your struggles can make healing more difficult. In groups, people realize that others share similar challenges, which reduces isolation and builds a sense of belonging..
- A place to practice communication: Group members can express their thoughts and emotions in a judgment-free space while building confidence and improving communication skills.
- Healthier relationship patterns: With the support of a facilitator, participants explore how their actions and communication patterns impact others. This awareness helps them experiment with new, more effective ways of relating.
- Practical, evidence-based skills: Groups teach coping strategies, problem-solving tools, and communication techniques that participants can use both in and outside of sessions.
- Motivation and accountability: Sharing progress and setbacks provides encouragement, structure, and hope — helping members stay engaged in their recovery or personal growth.
A TFCC Counselor’s Perspective: Michael McRobert
Michael McRobert, one of TFCC’s Alcohol & Drug Counselors and case managers, brings years of experience and a strong commitment to helping individuals build healthier, more stable lives.
Michael shares:
I enjoy facilitating group counseling for substance use disorders. It provides useful information to participants who are new to recovery and those who have struggled. I teach participants how to avoid certain urges and triggers that could lead to maladaptive behaviors using evidence-based theory that supports harm reduction and abstinence. We move through the stages of change model, work on developing a change plan, and build recovery capital together.
Everyone has a story. Participants learn from each other and from the material — the dangers of substance use, the reality of recovery, and the strength they didn’t know they had. They support each other with positive feedback and learn to make positive changes to live the best years of their lives. Seeing their accomplishments gives me great pleasure.
Michael began his behavioral health career in 2018 supporting houseless Veterans and individuals with substance use and co-occurring disorders in Portland. After moving to Tillamook in 2022, he joined the TFCC Crisis Team and completed his QMHA-I and Alcohol & Drug Counseling certifications.
Today, Michael serves across multiple TFCC programs—including Crisis, ACT, and Alcohol & Drug Services—providing both case management and counseling. He helps individuals meet essential needs, offers evidence-based treatment for substance use disorders, and works closely with clinicians to support people with co-occurring conditions. Michael also facilitates DUII education and treatment groups (in English and Spanish), the Today’s New Adventure Group, and the Recovery Capital Group, while collaborating with Parole Officers when appropriate to support participants in the justice system. Guided by evidence-based practice and a deep commitment to personalized care, he continues to help individuals build healthier, more stable lives.
Group counseling may be a good fit if you want to:
- Build coping and communication skills
- Connect with others who genuinely understand your experiences
- Learn from diverse perspectives and shared stories
- Strengthen your recovery through support and accountability
- Work toward personal goals with guidance and community
If you’re interested in learning more about group counseling, please talk with your current TFCC counselor. Group participation is available for individuals who are already engaged in services with one of our clinicians.
If you are not currently receiving counseling at TFCC but would like to get started, we invite you to contact Tillamook Family Counseling Center to begin the intake process. We are here to support you in building a healthier, more connected future.
Sources:
- Psyche Central; 5 Benefits of Group Therapy
- Psychology Today; What is Group Counseling