People rarely heal in isolation. At Pacific Coast Mental Health’s Costa Mesa facility, small groups of 6-10 individuals gather regularly to share their struggles, victories, and everyday experiences under the guidance of trained therapists. This powerful form of treatment, process group therapy, creates a safe space where real-time emotional exchanges drive profound personal growth.
The Power of Shared Experience
Process group therapy goes beyond traditional support groups by diving deep into the dynamics between participants. Rather than following a rigid agenda, these sessions flow organically, helping members explore the most pressing issues.
“The group becomes a microcosm of the outside world,” explains Dr. Soren Shamsian, Pacific Coast Mental Health medical director. “The interactions that unfold here mirror the patterns people experience in their daily lives.”
The immediate feedback loop created within the group generates the magic. Unlike individual therapy, where insights come primarily from one professional, process groups offer multiple perspectives from peers and therapists. A multifaceted reflection helps participants gain a deeper awareness of how others perceive them–invaluable information rarely available in everyday life.
Breaking Through Isolation: Who Benefits Most
Process group therapy at Pacific Coast Mental Health is a powerful tool for individuals grappling with various challenges. Those struggling with emotional regulation find new ways to understand and manage their feelings.
People facing major life transitions—career changes, loss, or relocation–discover strength in shared experiences. Individuals working through grief or addiction benefit from the collective wisdom and support of others walking similar paths.
The treatment is particularly effective for those battling self-esteem issues or struggling with interpersonal relationships. Within the safe confines of the group, participants practice new communication skills, work through conflicts, and receive honest feedback about their interaction patterns.
This real-world laboratory allows them to experiment with different ways of relating to others before taking those skills into their personal lives.
The Pacific Coast Mental Health Difference
Pacific Coast Mental Health’s Costa Mesa facility incorporates process groups as part of a comprehensive treatment program. The center’s experienced therapists carefully facilitate each session, balancing structure and organic interaction.
“We create an environment where vulnerability becomes strength,” notes Dr. Shamsian. “When people feel truly safe to share their authentic selves, they inevitably experience remarkable healing.”
The facility’s philosophy means process groups don’t operate in isolation. They complement individual therapy, medication management when necessary, and other therapeutic modalities. This integrated treatment strategy addresses the whole person—mind, body, and spirit.
In addition, the residential setting provides further support, allowing participants to fully immerse themselves in their healing journey without the distractions of daily life.
Pacific Coast Mental Health’s process groups are the ideal solution for those ready to move beyond individual therapy and tap into the power of shared experience. Through genuine connection and skilled therapeutic guidance, participants discover they’re not alone in their struggles–and more importantly, not alone in their journey toward healing.
