Psychiatrist and psychotherapist Irvin D. Yalom identified a set of therapeutic principles that explain why group therapy is so effective. These ideas guide how we run our groups at Make Lemonade.
Group therapy
In our group therapy sessions, members share experiences, learn from others facing similar challenges, and build coping skills with guidance from our therapists.
On this page
Our group programs
Join our transformative group therapy programs designed to foster connection, growth, and healing in a supportive community setting.
What makes group therapy work
Instillation of hope: seeing others change gives belief in your own healing
Universality: knowing you’re not alone in what you’re feeling
Imparting information: sharing tools and knowledge that help
Altruism: helping others and feeling useful improves self-worth
Corrective recapitulation of the primary family group: group relationships help you work through old family dynamics in healthier ways
Imitative behaviour: learning by observing others and how they cope
Development of socialising techniques: practising real connection and communication in a safe space
Interpersonal learning: seeing how others perceive you and giving you feedback
Group cohesiveness: feeling accepted, seen and supported by the group
Catharsis: safely expressing strong feelings and releasing them
Existential factors: facing big life issues such as responsibility, freedom, mortality, and meaning
Our Location
We are located on Wurundjeri Country:
130 Johnston Street, Fitzroy / Ngár-go
Find more information about our location, and best ways to get here:
Our enrolment process
We like to consider ourselves to be practical people, so we’ve outlined the steps needed to help you set up your first appointment.
Pre-appointment Questionnaire
A short questionnaire to help us understand you a little better and to kickstart your enrolment process.
Go to Questionnaire.
We’ll contact you
We’ll reach out to you to discuss suitable Psychologist and book your first in-person or telehealth appointment.
Enrol yourself
We’ll email you our enrolment and consent form for you to fill out prior to your first appointment.
Enrol here
Pre-appointment Questionnaire
This short questionnaire helps us understand your circumstances a little better and kickstarts your onboarding process. Once completed, we’ll reach out to tee up your first appointment.
Frequently asked questions
Here are a few common questions that we might have missed above
How many people are in a group?
Our groups usually have up to 10 participants. This keeps the setting comfortable and allows everyone to participate.
Do I have to talk about personal experiences?
No. In some programs, like EMDR group therapy, you don’t need to share personal details. You can engage at your own pace.
How long do the sessions last?
Group sessions typically last 90 minutes and run weekly over several weeks. The exact duration depends on the specific program.
What does it cost, and is there a Medicare rebate?
The cost varies by program. For example, the EMDR group program is $560 for four sessions. With a Mental Health Care Plan, you may receive a Medicare rebate of $49.05 per session ($90.95 out-of-pocket per session).
Is group therapy suitable for everyone?
Group therapy can be beneficial for many, but it’s important to determine if it’s the right fit for you. We recommend discussing this with a therapist before joining.
Can I attend group therapy online?
Currently, our group therapy sessions are held in person at our Fitzroy clinic.
What if I feel overwhelmed during a session?
Our facilitators are trained to create a safe environment. They provide coping strategies and support to help manage any distress during sessions.
How do I join a group therapy program?
Completing our Pre-appointment Questionnaire is a simple step with no obligation to commit to your chosen program. We’ll reach out to discuss your suitability and enrolment options. It’s also beneficial to talk with your therapist to express your interest. They can provide guidance on the next steps and help you determine whether a group program fits your needs.
