What is the theory behind this PTSD group therapy worksheet?

Group therapy has proven to be a very beneficial treatment method for people who went through  trauma. Groups provide a safe space for sharing the feelings an individual feels hesitant to share otherwise. Since every member of the group has gone through somewhat similar experiences, they are more empathetic and understanding towards the thoughts, feelings and behaviors that occur post-trauma.

How will the worksheet help?    

This worksheet will help the clients into exploring their options for support. People who went through trauma usually believe that they have to endure the pain alone by themselves. With the help of the other group members, clients will be able to reflect on the relationships they have and how they can ask for support from them.

How to use this worksheet?

To use this worksheet, every group member needs to focus on the provided questions and answer them. Then they are required to read their answers out loud and find different ways to reach out to their support system with the help of their group.

PTSD group therapy worksheet

Name some of the people in your life that you trust and has proved to be supported in the past

How much these people can be a support to you at this time in your life?

What are some of the ways you can ask them for support?

References 

Lubin, H., Loris, M., Burt, J., & Johnson, D. R. (1998). Efficacy of psychoeducational group therapy in reducing symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder among multiply traumatized women. American Journal of Psychiatry, 155(9), 1172–1177

Wolfsdorf, B.A. and Zlotnick, C. (2001), Affect management in group therapy for women with posttraumatic stress disorder and histories of childhood sexual abuse. J. Clin. Psychol., 57: 169-181..

You can download this worksheet here.