You Are Not Alone

Shame can be a lonely place.

It tells us we’re different, broken, or too much. It convinces us that if others really knew what was going on inside, they’d turn away. For many people, this belief quietly shapes the way they move through the world — pulling back in conversations, keeping feelings under wraps, and avoiding moments that might leave them exposed.

In our culture, we often try to “fix” that feeling alone. We read books, listen to podcasts, or push ourselves to be more confident. But shame doesn’t grow in a vacuum, and it rarely heals in one either.

That’s where group therapy can be transformative.

The Power of Being Seen

When you walk into a therapy group for the first time, it’s normal to feel uncertain. You might wonder if your struggles will make sense to others, or if you’ll feel out of place. What often surprises people is how quickly they start hearing their own thoughts reflected back in someone else’s words.

A group member might share about their anxiety in social settings, their complicated relationship with food, or the way they replay a difficult conversation for days. And without even realizing it, your shoulders drop a little. You’re not the only one.

That moment – the quiet recognition of “me too” – can be the start of dismantling shame.

Why Belonging Matters for Healing

Psychologist Irvin Yalom, who studied the impact of group therapy for decades, called this universality. The deep relief of realizing you’re not alone in your struggles.

In a group, belonging isn’t just about being surrounded by people. It’s about being surrounded by people who get it. Who won’t flinch at your truth. Who understand the messy, human contradictions of wanting to feel better but also fearing change.

Belonging creates safety. And when we feel safe enough, we can start exploring the deeper layers of our pain, rather than staying stuck at the surface.

Beyond Support: Real Growth

Group therapy isn’t a support group in the casual sense. Yes, there is support. But there’s also challenge. Gentle, intentional challenge that helps you notice the patterns you bring into relationships, and practice showing up differently.

You get feedback in real time about how you come across, how you connect, and where you hold back. You see how your story impacts others. And you begin to experiment with new ways of relating, all in a space designed for curiosity and compassion.

If Shame Has Kept You Silent

If shame has made you feel isolated, misunderstood, or hesitant to seek help, you’re not alone. Many people who join our groups at J Lewis Therapy start from that place.

Over time, they find themselves opening up in ways they didn’t think possible. They discover that sharing their story, and hearing others’, creates the kind of connection shame can’t survive in.

Because the truth is, belonging is one of the most powerful antidotes to shame. And group therapy offers a place to experience it, week after week.

Curious about whether group therapy might be right for you?
We offer a variety of groups designed to meet you where you are in your healing journey. Learn more about our current groups here.

Ashley Paige

Ashley is the blog writer and social media manager for JLewis Therapy.