Group Therapy Facilitator Job Description [Updated for 2025]

group therapy facilitator job description

In today’s interconnected world, the role of group therapy facilitators has become increasingly significant.

As societal understanding towards mental health grows, so does the demand for skilled professionals who can guide, support, and safeguard the dynamics of group therapy sessions.

But what’s truly expected from a group therapy facilitator?

Whether you are:

  • A job seeker looking to understand the depth of this role,
  • A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
  • Or simply interested in the intricacies of group therapy facilitation,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Group Therapy Facilitator job description template, crafted for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s delve into it.

Group Therapy Facilitator Duties and Responsibilities

Group Therapy Facilitators play a critical role in guiding group therapy sessions, creating a safe environment for participants to share and process their experiences, and leading therapeutic exercises.

Their main duties and responsibilities include:

  • Planning and leading group therapy sessions
  • Creating a safe, inclusive, and respectful group environment
  • Providing direction and guidance to group participants
  • Facilitating group discussions and therapeutic exercises
  • Monitoring group dynamics and intervening when necessary
  • Encouraging group participants to share and engage with one another
  • Assessing the progress of group participants
  • Documenting and reporting on each group session
  • Consulting with other professionals, such as psychologists and social workers, to optimize therapy methods
  • Continuing education and training in group therapy techniques and theories
  • Ensuring adherence to ethical guidelines and confidentiality laws

 

Group Therapy Facilitator Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a compassionate and dedicated Group Therapy Facilitator to design, coordinate and implement group therapy sessions.

The Group Therapy Facilitator will be responsible for facilitating therapeutic group sessions, guiding members through their recovery process, and supporting their mental health journey.

The successful candidate will have a strong understanding of group dynamics, therapeutic processes, and the ability to manage diverse personalities within a group setting.

 

Responsibilities

  • Planning and facilitating therapeutic group sessions
  • Creating a safe, respectful and confidential group environment
  • Assessing the needs and progress of group members
  • Providing necessary resources and referrals for individual members
  • Encouraging member participation and interaction
  • Documenting group sessions and client progress
  • Collaborating with other mental health professionals
  • Maintaining up-to-date knowledge of relevant therapeutic techniques and research
  • Adhering to professional and ethical guidelines

 

Qualifications

  • Proven experience as a Group Therapy Facilitator or similar role
  • Degree in Psychology, Counseling, Social Work or related field
  • Licensed to practice in the state
  • Excellent understanding of group dynamics and therapeutic processes
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills
  • Ability to handle sensitive issues with confidentiality and professionalism
  • Experience with diverse populations and age groups
  • Knowledge of crisis intervention techniques

 

Benefits

  • 401(k)
  • Health insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Retirement plan
  • Paid time off
  • Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

  • Job Title: Group Therapy Facilitator
  • Work Environment: Clinical setting with potential for remote sessions. Some evening or weekend hours may be required.
  • Reporting Structure: Reports to the Clinical Director or Mental Health Services Manager.
  • Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
  • Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $65,000 maximum
  • Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
  • Employment Type: Full-time
  • Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
  • Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Group Therapy Facilitator Do?

Group Therapy Facilitators typically work in healthcare facilities, mental health centers, hospitals, or private practices.

They can also operate in educational settings or rehabilitation centers.

Their main role is to lead and moderate group therapy sessions.

They create a safe, open, and confidential environment where participants can share their feelings, experiences, and concerns.

Group Therapy Facilitators develop and implement therapeutic treatment plans in a group setting.

These plans are designed based on the unique needs and goals of the group members.

They encourage and guide participants to engage in the process, promoting effective communication between the group members.

They also observe the group dynamics, interpreting and providing feedback on the behaviors and interactions within the group.

Group Therapy Facilitators work closely with other healthcare professionals to monitor the progress of each group member, adjust treatment plans as necessary, and provide referrals to other services if needed.

Their primary goal is to help individuals develop healthier behaviors and coping mechanisms, and to foster a sense of support and shared understanding among the group members.

 

Group Therapy Facilitator Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Group Therapy Facilitator should possess a unique blend of interpersonal skills, clinical knowledge, and a passion for helping others.

Essential qualifications and skills for this role include:

  • Strong understanding of group dynamics and various therapy models to effectively structure and guide group therapy sessions.
  • Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills to connect with diverse group members, facilitate open dialogue, and promote a supportive environment.
  • Active listening skills to understand the concerns and emotions of each group member and respond in a compassionate and empathetic manner.
  • Problem-solving abilities to mediate conflicts or issues that may arise within the group and help members develop their own problem-solving skills.
  • Knowledge of psychological theories and practices relevant to the group’s needs, whether it’s addiction recovery, trauma support, or mental health management.
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality and establish trust among group members while adhering to ethical guidelines and professional standards.
  • Patience and resilience to manage the emotional intensity that can emerge in therapy sessions and provide consistent, stable support for all group members.
  • Skills in documenting and reporting therapy session outcomes, maintaining accurate records, and communicating with other healthcare professionals as required.

 

Group Therapy Facilitator Experience Requirements

Group Therapy Facilitators are typically required to have a significant amount of experience in the field of mental health.

This can be achieved through formal education, such as earning a Master’s or Doctorate degree in Psychology, Social Work, Counseling or a related field.

Prior to facilitating group therapy sessions, these professionals often gain experience by working in settings where they provide individual therapy or counseling.

This experience allows them to develop their skills in listening, empathy, and providing effective feedback.

Many employers require Group Therapy Facilitators to have a minimum of 2 to 3 years of direct experience in facilitating group therapy sessions.

This experience can be gained through internships, practicums, or full-time employment in clinics, hospitals, or private practices.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have developed specialized skills in certain types of group therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral group therapy or dialectical behavior therapy group.

They may also have experience in working with specific populations, such as children, adolescents, adults, or the elderly.

Candidates with extensive experience, typically over 10 years, may be ready for a leadership role within their organization.

This could include supervising and training other therapists, overseeing program development, or managing a therapy department.

In addition, Group Therapy Facilitators are usually required to hold professional licensure, such as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), or Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT).

These licenses typically require a combination of education, supervised clinical experience, and passing a state licensure exam.

 

Group Therapy Facilitator Education and Training Requirements

Group Therapy Facilitators typically hold a master’s degree in psychology, counseling, social work, or a related field.

This advanced education allows them to understand and address the psychological and emotional issues that participants may have.

Within their degree program, they should focus on courses related to group dynamics, counseling techniques, and behavioral psychology.

Some programs may also offer specific courses on group therapy.

Beyond their degree, Group Therapy Facilitators must become licensed mental health professionals in their state.

This involves accumulating a certain number of supervised hours in clinical practice and passing a licensing exam.

In addition, many Group Therapy Facilitators pursue further professional certification, such as a Certified Group Psychotherapist credential, which requires additional training and experience in group therapy settings.

Continuing education is also important in this role, as it allows Facilitators to stay current with the latest group therapy techniques and research.

This can be achieved through workshops, webinars, and conferences.

Finally, Group Therapy Facilitators must have excellent listening and communication skills, as well as the ability to manage group dynamics and foster a supportive environment.

These soft skills are often developed through hands-on experience and practice.

 

Group Therapy Facilitator Salary Expectations

A Group Therapy Facilitator can expect an average salary of $46,890 (USD) per year.

However, this can greatly vary depending on factors such as the facilitator’s level of experience, the location of work, and the specific organization that they work for.

 

Group Therapy Facilitator Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Group Therapy Facilitator need?

Group Therapy Facilitators should have excellent interpersonal and communication skills, as they have to interact with different individuals and manage group dynamics.

They should be empathetic and patient to understand and accommodate each participant’s experiences.

A facilitator also needs problem-solving skills to address conflicts or issues that may arise during group therapy sessions.

Additionally, they should be knowledgeable about various therapeutic techniques and interventions suitable for a group setting.

 

Do Group Therapy Facilitators need a degree?

Most Group Therapy Facilitators have a degree in psychology, social work, or a related field.

Additionally, they are typically required to be licensed therapists or counselors.

Some roles may require a master’s degree.

They may also need additional certifications depending on the type of therapy they facilitate, such as art therapy or cognitive-behavioral therapy.

 

What should you look for in a Group Therapy Facilitator resume?

When reviewing a resume for a Group Therapy Facilitator, look for a relevant degree and any required licenses or certifications.

Experience in group therapy or counseling is also important.

You should also look for evidence of interpersonal skills, problem-solving ability, and familiarity with different therapeutic techniques.

Any experience in working with the specific population your group serves, such as individuals dealing with addiction or veterans, is also a plus.

 

What qualities make a good Group Therapy Facilitator?

A good Group Therapy Facilitator is empathetic and patient, able to accommodate the needs and experiences of each group member.

They also need to be skilled at managing group dynamics and fostering a safe, respectful environment.

Strong communication skills are crucial for explaining therapeutic concepts and guiding discussions.

A good facilitator is also flexible, adapting their approach based on the group’s needs and responses.

 

What are the challenges faced by a Group Therapy Facilitator?

Group Therapy Facilitators can face several challenges, including managing group dynamics, addressing individual needs while fostering a group environment, and dealing with resistance or non-participation from group members.

They may also need to handle sensitive topics or emotional responses.

The facilitator should be well-equipped to manage these situations and ensure the group remains a safe, beneficial environment for all participants.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unraveled the intricate tapestry of what it truly means to be a group therapy facilitator.

Surprised?

It’s not just about leading discussions.

It’s about weaving a collective narrative of healing, one session at a time.

With our comprehensive group therapy facilitator job description template and hands-on examples, you’re fully equipped to take the next step.

But why draw the line here?

Dive deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating precision-crafted job listings or honing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every group session is a piece of the larger healing process.

Let’s facilitate that journey. Together.

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