PRIVATE MENTAL HEALTH THERAPY IN LONDON

Group therapy in London with Schoen Clinic in Chelsea

Welcome to Schoen Clinic Chelsea. We're a private outpatient clinic in West London, dedicated to providing highly specialised treatment and therapy for individuals experiencing mental health conditions and eating disorders.

We understand the pressing need for swift access to specialised therapy. Our therapy groups are thoughtfully designed and expertly led by our own specialists, with the aim of providing individuals the support they require to navigate the challenges they face.

What's more, self-funding patients can typically join our mental health therapy groups and skills workshops in a matter of days.

What is group therapy?

Group therapy is a powerful form of psychotherapy that involves a therapist facilitating discussions and interactions among a small group of individuals who share common mental health concerns or issues. It serves as a valuable complement to individual therapy and offers a unique platform for individuals to connect, share experiences, and receive support in a structured environment.

Group therapy was developed in the early 20th century and gained popularity during World War II to address soldiers' mental health needs. Today, it is utilised to treat a wide range of mental health conditions, from depression and anxiety to substance abuse and eating disorders. The primary goal of group therapy is to provide a supportive and non-judgemental space where participants can explore their thoughts and feelings, gain insights into their struggles, and learn from one another's experiences.

These sessions often fall under the umbrella of "talking therapies," also known as psychotherapies, which include various approaches like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), psychoanalytic therapy, and Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT). Talking therapies aim to improve mental health by encouraging individuals to express their emotions, understand their thought patterns, and develop coping strategies. In group therapy, this process is enriched by the dynamic interactions and mutual support of group members, making it a particularly effective approach for many individuals seeking mental health support. At Schoen Clinic Chelsea, our experienced therapists offer group therapy as part of our highly specialised mental health services, helping patients find peace and growth in a collective healing environment.

Who is group therapy suitable for?

Group therapy is a versatile and effective approach suitable for a wide range of individuals dealing with various mental health challenges. At Schoen Clinic Chelsea, we offer a variety of group therapies as part of our highly specialised mental health treatment programme for adults, or on a pay-as-you-go basis, and it can be particularly beneficial for those facing the following issues:

Depression and anxiety: Group therapy provides a platform for individuals to share their experiences, gain insights, and learn effective coping strategies for managing symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Addiction: Recovery from addiction can be challenging, and group therapy offers a supportive setting where participants can discuss their struggles, share strategies, and work on maintaining sobriety.
Eating disorders: Group therapy can help individuals with eating disorders such as anorexia, bulimia, and OSFED, by addressing body image issues, developing healthier relationships with food, and encouraging self-acceptance.
Grief and loss: People dealing with the loss of a loved one can find solace and emotional support in group therapy. It provides a safe space to process their grief and connect with others who understand their pain.
Relationship and interpersonal issues: Group therapy allows individuals to explore and improve their communication and relationship skills, enhancing their ability to build healthier connections with others.
Trauma and PTSD: Survivors of trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder can benefit from group therapy by sharing their experiences, reducing isolation, and working towards healing and recovery together.
Stress management: Learning stress management techniques and mindfulness practices in group therapy can be particularly helpful for individuals dealing with stress-related issues.
Self-esteem and self-identity: Group therapy can aid in building self-esteem and a strong sense of self-identity by offering constructive feedback and validation from peers.
Anger management: Individuals struggling with anger issues can learn to manage their emotions, communicate effectively, and develop healthier ways to express themselves in group therapy.
Social anxiety: Group therapy helps individuals with social anxiety disorder to gradually build confidence in social situations by practicing interpersonal skills in a safe and supportive environment.

Group therapy is suitable for those seeking a supportive community where they can address their mental health challenges and work towards personal growth. By fostering a sense of belonging and providing valuable therapeutic tools, group therapy at Schoen Clinic Chelsea can be an essential component of a comprehensive mental health treatment plan.

How does group therapy work?

Group therapy operates on the principle that individuals can benefit from sharing their experiences and insights with a group of peers facing similar mental health challenges. Here's how it works:

Creating a supportive environment: Group therapy fosters a safe and non-judgmental space where participants can express their thoughts, emotions, and concerns openly. The group becomes a source of support, understanding, and empathy.
Open communication: Participants engage in open and honest discussions, allowing them to explore their feelings, thoughts, and behaviours. This can help individuals gain new perspectives and insights into their challenges.
Feedback and reflection: Group members provide feedback and share their perspectives, helping each other gain different viewpoints and alternative solutions to their problems. This collaborative approach encourages self-awareness and personal growth.
Skill development: Group therapy often includes skill-building exercises and techniques to help individuals manage their mental health issues more effectively. This may include coping strategies, communication skills, and stress management techniques.
Behavioural change: Through these shared experiences and learned skills, individuals can work on changing problematic behaviours and thought patterns. They receive guidance from both the therapist and their peers in the group.

What is a group therapy session in London like?

We offer a range of specialist therapeutic treatment groups at Schoen Clinic Chelsea, which can be combined with individual therapies for optimal outcomes. Our groups include:

Reflect, Renew, Reground
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Tools
Assertiveness / Finding My Voice
Integrative Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
Dialectical-Behavioural Therapy Skills
Mind & Body Connection
Schema Therapy
Yoga
Soundbath.

Find full details about each of these groups below. Self-funding patients can usually begin treatment within a few days. Contact our bookings team direct on +44 20 4571 7452 or email che-privateenquiries@schoen-clinic.co.uk to find out more.

Our current group timetable

	Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday
09:30 – 10:30	Reflect, Renew, Reground Lorraine		Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy Tools Sara B		Assertiveness / Finding My Voice Evangelia
10:30 – 11:00	Break	Break	Break	Break	Break
11:00 – 12:30	Integrative Cognitive Behavioural-Therapy Werner		Dialectical-Behavioural Therapy Skills Kristin		Mind & Body Connection Lorraine
12:30 – 13:30	Lunch	Lunch	Lunch	Lunch	Lunch
13:30 – 15:00	Schema Therapy Katherine		Yoga (1.30-2.30pm) Lucy		Soundbath (1.30-2.30pm) Poppy

What are the different types of therapy during specialised mental health treatment?

The Reflect, Renew, Reground group is a mindful, reflective space which encourages participants to attune to their feelings and emotions. This group offers individuals with mental health conditions a supportive environment to embark on their journey of self-discovery. Participants are encouraged to connect with their inner selves, focus on their wellbeing and reflect on what they want to achieve on the programme for the week.

Overview: Participants will learn how to apply mindfulness and other grounding techniques to cultivate present-moment awareness and foster a non-judgemental and accepting relationship with our thoughts and feelings.

Key Features:

Safe and supportive environment: A supportive and non-judgemental space is created for individuals to share their thoughts and feelings.
Participants will be introduced to a diverse range of grounding and mindful techniques, including guided meditation, breath awareness, body scan, and other mindful practices. These techniques are designed to enhance present-moment awareness and emotional regulation.
Cultivating Curiosity and Non-Judgement: Individuals will be encouraged to observe their thoughts and feelings without judgement, cultivating a compassionate and non-critical attitude towards themselves and their experiences.

Session Structure:

Grounding into the present moment: Each session will begin with a short grounding exercise. To encourage participants to be presentEach session begins with a brief explanation of a mindfulness technique. Facilitators guide the group in understanding the principles and objectives behind the chosen practice.
Reflection and Sharing: After the grounding practice, individuals will have the opportunity to share their experiences and insights. Facilitators provide support and guidance as participants discuss their observations and emotions.

Facilitators: The group is led by Lorraine Green, an experienced Psychotherapist with expertise in mindfulness techniques. Our facilitators at Schoen Clinic Chelsea are dedicated to creating a safe and nurturing space for individuals to explore their emotional well-being and self-awareness.

Who Should Attend: The group is open to individuals with mental health conditions seeking to cultivate a more grounded and accepting relationship with their thoughts and emotions. Whether you are new to mindfulness or have some experience with it, this group provides valuable insights and techniques for enhancing your well-being.

Integrative Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) at Schoen Clinic Chelsea is an immersive group therapy experience focused on identifying and overcoming the obstacles that impede emotional and mental growth. This evidence-based group provides a supportive and collaborative environment for individuals with mental health conditions to learn effective strategies for change and gain a new perspective on their emotional patterns.

Overview: Integrative Cognitive Behavioural Therapy is a specialised group that combines a diverse range of evidence-based principles to address the challenges that hinder personal growth. Through this integrative approach, participants will identify the foundations of their emotional obstacles and learn how to break free from patterns that limit their well-being and potential.

Key Objectives:

Identifying Obstacles: This group therapy session focuses on helping individuals recognise and understand the obstacles that hinder their emotional and mental progress. These barriers may arise from fear of the unknown, existential anxieties, constant self-criticism, or other deeply rooted patterns that colour their outlook on themselves, the world, and the future.
Utilising Evidence-Based Principles: Participants will be introduced to a combined range of evidence-based principles from Cognitive Therapy and Behavioural Therapy. These proven techniques will empower them to confront and transform negative thought patterns, emotions, and behaviors that perpetuate obstacles in their lives.
Embracing Change: By gaining insight into their emotional and mental obstacles, participants take the crucial first step towards change and personal growth. Integrative CBT equips them with the tools to navigate these challenges and move towards a healthier and more balanced emotional landscape.

Session Structure:

Group Exploration: Each session begins with group discussions where participants have the opportunity to share their experiences and challenges. Facilitated by mental health professionals, these discussions foster a sense of camaraderie and support.
Identifying Obstacles: Through guided exercises and therapeutic techniques, individuals will delve into the underlying emotions and thought patterns that contribute to the obstacles they face. The group provides a safe and compassionate space for honest self-reflection.
Evidence-Based Techniques: Participants will learn and practice evidence-based principles from Cognitive Therapy and Behavioural Therapy. These techniques offer practical strategies to challenge negative thought patterns, manage emotions, and modify behaviors that hinder personal growth.
Supportive Environment: The group offers encouragement and understanding as participants work through their obstacles and embark on their journey of change. Mutual support strengthens their resolve to overcome personal limitations.

Facilitators: Integrative Cognitive Behavioural Therapy at Schoen Clinic Chelsea is led by experienced mental health professionals who are well-versed in the principles and techniques of CBT. Our facilitators create a compassionate and non-judgemental space where individuals feel encouraged to confront their obstacles and embrace transformation.

Who Should Attend: Integrative Cognitive Behavioural Therapy is open to individuals with mental health conditions who are seeking effective tools to break through emotional barriers and cultivate positive change in their lives. If you are ready to address obstacles that hinder your emotional well-being and personal growth, this group is tailored to support your journey.

Schema Therapy group at Schoen Clinic Chelsea is an integrative model of therapy that combines elements from CBT, Psychodynamic, Gestalt, and other experiential approaches. This specialised group focuses on exploring and addressing unmet needs and attachment relationships from childhood, helping individuals with mental health conditions heal self-defeating patterns and cultivate emotional well-being.

Overview: Schema Therapy is a rich and comprehensive therapeutic approach that delves into the complex patterns or templates called schemas. These schemas encompass memories, emotions, cognitions, behaviours, and bodily sensations established in childhood. The therapy identifies and works through these self-defeating patterns to alleviate psychological and emotional pain.

Key Features:

Integrative and Holistic Approach: Schema Therapy draws from multiple theoretical perspectives, integrating elements from CBT, Psychodynamic, Gestalt, and experiential theories. This inclusive approach allows for a deep exploration of underlying issues and effective treatment strategies.
Childhood Attachment and Unmet Needs: The group's primary focus is on understanding the impact of childhood attachment relationships and unmet needs, which can perpetuate maladaptive patterns and emotional distress in adulthood.

Session Structure:

Identifying Schemas: Each session involves identifying and exploring individual schemas that underlie self-defeating patterns and emotional pain. Facilitators help participants gain insight into the origins and effects of these schemas.
Healing through Experiential Techniques: The group incorporates experiential techniques to process and heal emotional wounds from childhood. These techniques facilitate emotional release, catharsis, and the development of healthier coping strategies.

Facilitators: The Schema Therapy group at Schoen Clinic Chelsea is led by experienced mental health professionals with expertise in Schema Therapy and other integrative approaches. Our facilitators create a safe and supportive environment for individuals to explore and heal their schemas.

Who Should Attend: Schema Therapy is suitable for individuals with mental health conditions seeking to address deep-seated patterns and emotional pain stemming from childhood experiences and attachment relationships. If you are looking to break free from self-defeating patterns and cultivate emotional well-being, this group offers valuable insights and support.

Dialectical-Behavioural Therapy (DBT) group therapy session at Schoen Clinic Chelsea is an evidence-based approach developed by Marsha Linehan. This integrative therapy equips adults with mental health conditions with essential Mindfulness, Distress Tolerance, Emotion Regulation, and Interpersonal Effectiveness skills to effectively manage emotional dysregulation and harmful behaviours.

Overview: Dialectical-Behavioural Therapy (DBT) is a specialised group that draws on the principles of cognitive behavioural therapy and mindfulness practices. This comprehensive therapy helps individuals navigate and cope with emotional challenges, offering valuable tools to enhance emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal skills.

Key Features:

Comprehensive Skills Training: DBT focuses on four core skill areas: Mindfulness, Distress Tolerance, Emotion Regulation, and Interpersonal Effectiveness. Through targeted training in each area, participants acquire practical strategies to cope with intense emotions and foster healthier relationships.
Managing Emotional Dysregulation: This group therapy session equips individuals with mental health conditions with techniques to recognise, understand, and manage episodes of emotional dysregulation, enabling them to respond constructively in challenging situations.

Session Structure:

Skills Training Workshops: Each session includes interactive and educational workshops where participants learn and practice the fundamental DBT skills. Facilitators guide the group through exercises and discussions to reinforce skill acquisition.
Group Discussions and Support: Throughout the sessions, individuals have the opportunity to discuss their experiences, share insights, and offer support to one another. The group environment provides a safe space for growth and learning.

Facilitators: DBT group therapy sessions at Schoen Clinic Chelsea are facilitated by Kristin McCarthy, an experienced Psychotherapist with specialist expertise in Dialectical-Behavioural Therapy. Our facilitators at Schoen Clinic Chelsea are committed to providing a nurturing and supportive environment for individuals to learn and apply DBT skills effectively.

Who Should Attend: DBT group therapy is designed for adults with mental health conditions who struggle with emotional regulation and interpersonal challenges. If you are seeking practical tools to cope with intense emotions and enhance your interpersonal effectiveness, this group offers valuable support.

Yoga at Schoen Clinic Chelsea is a holistic approach based on the Minded Institute's 8-week yoga therapy course. This group is designed to support individuals with mental health conditions in enhancing the functioning of their nervous system, promoting well-being, and cultivating self-awareness through the practice of mindfulness.

Overview: Yoga combines mindful yoga practices, including asana (physical practice), pranayama (breathwork), and mindfulness techniques. Rooted in the Minded Institute's evidence-based course, this therapeutic approach is accessible to individuals of all yoga experience levels, offering a unique opportunity to nurture the mind-body connection.

Key Objectives:

Enhancing Nervous System Functioning: The Yoga group focuses on practices that positively impact the nervous system, helping individuals manage stress, anxiety, and other mental health challenges more effectively.
Promoting Well-Being: Through mindful yoga practice, participants develop a deeper connection to their bodies and emotions, fostering a sense of well-being and balance.

Session Structure:

Mindful Asana Practice: Each session begins with a guided mindful asana practice, incorporating gentle and accessible yoga postures to promote physical and emotional awareness.
Pranayama (Breathwork): Participants engage in pranayama exercises, which involve conscious and controlled breathing techniques to calm the mind and reduce stress.
Mindfulness Techniques: The group integrates mindfulness practices that cultivate present-moment awareness and self-observation, fostering a deeper understanding of thoughts and emotions.

Facilitators: Yoga sessions at Schoen Clinic Chelsea are led by Lucy Eagle, a skilled yoga instructor, well-versed in the Minded Institute's evidence-based approach. All our group facilitators create a nurturing and supportive environment, ensuring participants feel comfortable and engaged in the practice.

Who Should Attend: Yoga is open to individuals with mental health conditions seeking to enhance their well-being, self-awareness, and resilience through mindful yoga practices. Whether you are new to yoga or have previous experience, this group welcomes all individuals who wish to explore the healing potential of yoga.

Are you seeking a safe and supportive environment to enhance your communication skills and empower yourself to express your thoughts and opinions with confidence? Welcome to the "Assertiveness/Finding My Voice" group therapy session at Schoen Clinic Chelsea. This transformative group is designed to guide individuals with mental health conditions on a journey towards improved assertiveness and effective communication.

Overview: The "Assertiveness/Finding My Voice" group is an empowering and dynamic therapy session aimed at exploring the diverse styles of communication we employ in our daily lives. Through thoughtful examination and interactive discussions, participants will gain insight into their communication patterns and identify underlying factors that influence their relationships with others.

Key Themes:

Styles of Communication: Participants will examine various styles of communication, ranging from passive to aggressive, as well as assertive communication. By understanding the nuances of each style, attendees can recognise how they impact their interactions with others and explore ways to adopt more effective communication strategies.
Embracing Assertiveness: This group will focus on cultivating assertiveness, which lies at the heart of communicating our genuine thoughts and feelings honestly while respecting others. Participants will learn to embrace assertiveness as a means of fostering healthy relationships and self-empowerment.
Navigating Self-Esteem and Assertiveness: The group will explore the intricate connection between self-esteem and assertiveness. Understanding how self-esteem influences our ability to assert ourselves and set boundaries is vital for personal growth and self-development.

Session Structure:

Interactive Discussions: Group members will engage in guided discussions that encourage open sharing and self-reflection. These conversations will promote a deeper understanding of individual communication styles and the challenges they may face in expressing themselves assertively.
Skill-Building Exercises: Various skill-building exercises will be introduced to help participants practice assertiveness in different scenarios. These exercises are designed to bolster confidence, enhance communication abilities, and provide valuable feedback and support.
Role-Playing Scenarios: Through role-playing, participants will have the opportunity to experiment with newfound assertiveness skills in a controlled environment. This practice will enable them to become more comfortable with assertive communication in real-life situations.
Supportive Environment: The group will foster a non-judgemental and empathetic atmosphere, where everyone's experiences are respected, and confidentiality is upheld. Members will feel encouraged to share their challenges and successes, knowing they are among individuals who genuinely understand and support them.

Facilitators: The "Assertiveness/Finding My Voice" group will be led by Evangelia Mylona, an experienced psychotherapist who is passionate about empowering individuals to overcome communication barriers and strengthen their sense of self. Evangelia has expertise in group therapy and is committed to creating a nurturing environment for personal growth.

Who Should Attend: This group therapy session is open to individuals grappling with mental health conditions and seeking to improve their assertiveness and communication skills. If you find it challenging to express yourself honestly and respectfully, this group offers a valuable opportunity to grow personally and interpersonally.

Mind and Body Connection group therapy at Schoen Clinic Chelsea is a specialised group that provides a safe and supportive space for individuals with mental health conditions to explore the intricate interplay between their mental and physical well-being.

Overview: Mind and Body Connection is a unique group therapy session that delves into the dynamic relationship between the mind and body. Led by experienced Psychotherapist Lorraine Green, this group aims to uncover and address the ways mental health conditions may influence physical health and vice versa.

Key Objectives:

Understanding Holistic Health: This group emphasises the importance of recognizing the interconnectedness of mental and physical health, and how each can impact the other.
Exploring Emotional and Physical Resilience: Participants will gain insights into developing emotional and physical resilience, learning to nurture both aspects of their well-being.

Session Structure:

Psychotherapist-led Discussions: Group members engage in discussions centered around the connection between mental and physical well-being. Participants are encouraged to share their experiences and insights.
Exploring Mind-Body Techniques: The group explores a variety of mind-body techniques that promote relaxation, stress reduction, and overall well-being. These techniques may include mindfulness, breathing exercises, and body awareness practices.

Facilitator: Mind and Body Connection group therapy sessions at Schoen Clinic Chelsea are skillfully led by Lorraine Green, a seasoned Psychotherapist with a passion for empowering individuals to holistically address their mental and physical health.

Who Should Attend: Mind and Body Connection is open to individuals with mental health conditions who recognize the importance of addressing both their emotional and physical well-being. If you are seeking a comprehensive approach to healing that acknowledges the interplay of mind and body, this group offers valuable support and insights.

Soundbath therapy at Schoen Clinic Chelsea offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in a profound experience of healing and relaxation. In this therapy group, you'll discover the therapeutic potential of sound as it harmonises your body, mind, and spirit.

Overview: Soundbath therapy is a form of sound healing, where you are enveloped in a symphony of sounds produced by various instruments, including gongs. The frequencies of these sounds synchronise with your brainwaves, guiding your body into restorative states akin to those experienced during daydreaming, rest, and sleep. This synchronisation allows your body to recover and rejuvenate, offering a wide range of benefits.

Key Themes:

Deep Relaxation: Achieve an immediate and profound state of relaxation.
Physical Well-Being: Lower heart rate, manage pain, and enhance overall physical comfort.
Mental Clarity: Increase mental clarity and focus.
Stress Reduction: Alleviate stress and anxiety.
Emotional Regulation: Learn to manage and regulate your emotions.
Serenity: Leave each session feeling serene and at peace.

Session Structure: Each Soundbath Therapy session is expertly structured to guide you through a transformative experience. Poppy Ansell skillfully curates a therapeutic soundscape, inviting you to lie or sit in a comfortable position as the healing sounds wash over you. The session promotes deep relaxation, self-discovery, and holistic well-being.

Facilitators: Poppy Ansell is a dedicated and experienced soundbath therapist with a passion for helping individuals unlock their inner healing potential. Her expert facilitation ensures that every session is tailored to your unique needs, providing a safe and nurturing environment for your journey to wellbeing. You can read more information on Poppy's website by clicking here.

Who Should Attend: Soundbath therapy is suitable for anyone seeking relaxation, stress reduction, emotional balance, and physical relief. Whether you are experiencing specific challenges or simply want to enhance your overall well-being, this therapy group welcomes individuals from all walks of life. No prior experience with sound healing is required—just an open heart and a willingness to embark on a transformative journey.

Is group therapy effective?

Expected outcomes and the chance of complete success with group therapy can vary from person to person. Success is often determined by several factors, including the individual's willingness to actively participate, the severity of their condition, and the quality of the therapeutic relationship.

While some individuals may experience substantial improvements or even complete resolution of their mental health issues through group therapy, others may find that it is an essential part of a broader treatment plan that includes other forms of therapy or medication.

Group therapy tends to have a higher success rate when it complements individual therapy, as it provides a unique space for shared experiences and additional support. Ultimately, the effectiveness of group therapy is a highly individualized matter, with the potential for substantial positive change in participants' lives.

How much does a group therapy session cost?

Accessing mental health therapy at our London clinic is simple. Whether you are seeking structured, long-term mental health treatment or looking for a flexible pay-as-you-go option, we are committed to making mental health support accessible and effective for everyone.

If you'd like to join our group therapy sessions or skills workshops there are two options available:

Join groups as part of our highly specialised mental health treatment programme for adults
Join on a pay-as-you-go basis and select the group you'd like to attend.

If you'd like further details about our groups, or have any questions before getting started, please don't hesitate to contact us.

How do I find group therapy sessions in London?

Finding exceptional group therapy sessions in London is made easy with Schoen Clinic Chelsea. Our specialist facilities offer a comfortable and supportive environment where you can begin your journey to well-being.

We focus on providing a wide range of therapy options to address diverse mental health needs and our experienced staff guide you through the healing process.

Conveniently located in the heart of London, Schoen Clinic Chelsea provides accessibility for all. To explore our group therapy options and start your path to healing, simply get in touch or contact our friendly team to find the perfect session for you.

Our dedicated facilities for providing group therapy in Chelsea

Schoen Clinic Chelsea is your destination for exceptional group therapy, offering a welcoming and specialised environment to support recovery. Our clinic, nestled in a discreet courtyard just off King's Road in Chelsea, provides a convenient and accessible location for those seeking therapy.

Our well-equipped facilities include a variety of therapy rooms designed to promote comfort and healing. Specifically tailored for group therapy sessions, these rooms are thoughtfully furnished and equipped with the necessary tools to enhance your therapy experience.

Our clinic's central location ensures ease of access for all, whether you're arriving by public transportation or car. At Schoen Clinic Chelsea, we are committed to providing a comfortable and inclusive space where you can explore the benefits of group therapy, all within a setting that prioritises your well-being and convenience.