Benefits of Group Therapy

By Jade Caswell, MA, LMHC

            When most people think of attending therapy, they often think of attending individual or perhaps couples therapy, however, group counseling can be another effective therapy model to promote change and self-growth. Groups may have different focuses and techniques, however, a few of the most common include support, psychoeducational, process oriented and skills building groups. The topics for groups can be endless, however, example topics include social skill building, addiction and eating disorder recovery, or grief support groups. Read more about the numerous benefits of group therapy below!

1. Enhanced Accountability

- During the group process, group members agree on goals and seek to hold members accountable for progress towards a goal. Group members can also be called on to provide supportive feedback for other group members.

2. Normalizing Group Members' Experiences

- The group setting naturally combats isolation, shame and stigma. Members may feel less alone and part of a community.

3. Cost Effective

- Group therapy can be more affordable than individual therapy because the cost is shared among members. This can make it a more accessible option.

4. Learning from Others

- Group therapy can be a great place to discover new ways of coping or taking new perspectives on a particular issue.

5. Safe Space for Vulnerability

- A group setting allows for testing of new behaviors and responses without the potential judgement of a 'real world' setting. For example, this gives members a chance to practice vulnerability and sharing feeling, thoughts, etc in a safe environment.

Group therapy is a powerful tool for change. Are you ready to take the next step in your mental health journey? SMC offers a wide variety of group therapy topics, including a men's mental health support group, hormonal wellness group, BIPOC and postpartum support groups. Interested in joining? Please call us today at 813-335-9794. We look forward to hearing from you!

Understanding Prolonged Grief Disorder—and How to Heal

By Sandra I. Beekmann, MS, NCC, LCMHC-QS, CCTP

Grief is a natural, human response to loss. Over time, most people begin to find a new sense of normal. But for some, grief remains intense and unrelenting—interfering with their daily life, relationships, and ability to move forward. This condition is known as Prolonged Grief Disorder (PGD).

What Is Prolonged Grief Disorder?

Prolonged Grief Disorder (PGD) is now recognized in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5-TR). It’s characterized by a deep, persistent grief that continues well beyond what’s considered typical—more than 12 months after a loss for adults, or more than 6 months for children and teens.

Those experiencing PGD often feel emotionally stuck, disconnected, and overwhelmed by the loss.

Common Symptoms of PGD

• Intense longing or yearning for the deceased

• Preoccupation with the person who died

• Difficulty accepting the death

• Avoidance of reminders of the loss

• Persistent emotional numbness or detachment

• Feeling that life is meaningless without the person

• Trouble engaging in personal, social, or professional activities

Who Is at Risk?

While anyone can experience prolonged grief, certain factors increase vulnerability, including:

• Sudden or unexpected loss

• The death of a child or romantic partner

• A lack of emotional or social support

• Previous mental health conditions (such as depression or PTSD)

• A history of multiple or unresolved losses

How We Treat Prolonged Grief Disorder at SMC Tampa

At SMC Tampa, we offer personalized, evidence-based support to help individuals heal and regain a sense of peace, purpose, and connection.

1. Grief-Focused Therapy

We work closely with clients to process emotions, build healthy coping skills, and create a meaningful path forward. Our approaches may include:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

• Meaning Reconstruction and Narrative Therapy

• Emotion-Focused Techniques

2. Trauma-Informed Approaches

For those who experienced a traumatic loss, our therapists may incorporate methods like EMDR or somatic therapies to address both trauma and grief together.

3. Mindfulness and Holistic Techniques

We often integrate grounding strategies, mindfulness, and wellness practices to support emotional regulation and mind-body connection.

4. Group Therapy and Peer Support

Grief groups provide a powerful opportunity to share, connect, and heal with others who understand the journey of loss.

You Don’t Have to Walk This Road Alone

Grieving is not about “getting over” a loss—it’s about learning how to live with it in a way that honors both your love and your life. If you or someone you care about may be experiencing Prolonged Grief Disorder, we’re here to help.

📞 Contact us today to learn more about our services or schedule an appointment with a licensed therapist.

Learning the Difference: Mental Health Providers

By Jade Caswell, MA, LMHC

Deciding to seek mental health support can be a huge step towards prioritizing your well-being. After making this decision, it may be confusing to understand the difference between professionals within the field of mental health, and you may not know where to begin. Here at SMC, we decided to clear things up, and provide information on the roles of different professionals. Each professional is trained to provide support and help you make the best choices for your mental health, however, they each have different roles and often work in tandem to provide the best care! Read below for more information.

1. Mental health counselor:

A mental health counselor (or 'therapist') is a trained professional who helps people cope with emotional, psychological, and behavioral challenges through talk therapy. Counselors hold a master’s degree and must fulfill academic and training requirements. They may also be specialized in a particular therapeutic approach, such as CBT, DBT, EFT. Counselors do NOT prescribe medication. 

2. Psychologist:

A psychologist is a professional who studies the mind and behavior and helps people understand and manage mental health and behavioral challenges. Psychologists hold a doctoral degree and may provide talk therapy and in-depth assessments. Additionally, they often have a background in research, testing and assessment. Psychologists do NOT prescribe medication in the state of Florida.

3. Psychiatrist:

A psychiatrist is a medical Doctor who specializes in the diagnosis, assessment, and treatment of mental health disorders. A psychiatrist holds a medical degree with advanced training and may prescribe medication. A psychiatrist is trained in the biological aspects of mental illness and may work closely with other members of a patient's care team, such a counselor, social worker or primary care physician.

4. Neurologist:

A neurologist is a medical Doctor who treats disorders of the nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord and nerves. A neurologist holds a medical degree with advanced training and may prescribe medication and interpret tests like MRI, CT, EEG etc. Neurologists do not provide talk therapy.

Each mental health professional plays an important role in aiding patient wellbeing. Here at SMC, we aim to provide holistic counseling services with a wrap-around approach, incorporating a specialized care team for improved results. Need more information? Call us today at 813-335-9794!