Group Therapy for Assertiveness
Grounded in cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), this psychotherapy group offers a supportive, structured space to build assertiveness and healthy boundaries. Participants will learn how to communicate more clearly and confidently, reduce passive or aggressive patterns, and navigate everyday interactions with greater ease. Sessions run weekly for 50 minutes and are held either online or in person. This group runs for a total of 10 weekly sessions and is open to adults aged 18 and up.
CBT GROUP THERAPY
Assertiveness: The Confidence to Speak Up
Group Description
This therapy group is designed to support adults who struggle to express their needs, set boundaries, or speak up with confidence. Rooted in cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), each session offers practical tools to help you understand assertiveness, challenge unhelpful beliefs, and develop more effective communication skills.
Week by week, we’ll explore topics such as passive and aggressive behaviour patterns, saying “no” without guilt, handling criticism, and navigating difficult conversations. The group blends psychoeducation, experiential practice, and supportive discussion to help you build clarity and confidence in your interactions.
You’ll receive a weekly PDF with key concepts, reflection prompts, and exercises to help you build assertiveness, improve relationships, and approach communication with greater ease and intention.
Group Facilitator
Michelle Lehoux holds dual professional registrations with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO) and the Ontario College of Teachers (OCT). With a background in both psychotherapy and education, she has facilitated workshops across diverse sectors—including mental health, family wellness, and refugee resettlement—bringing a trauma-informed lens and deep respect for each person’s lived experience. Known for her calm and grounding presence, Michelle brings a gentle, steady energy to her work, creating a safe and supportive space where clients can reflect, connect, and grow.
Weekly Topics
Week 1
What is Assertiveness?
- An introduction to assertiveness: what it means, why it matters, common myths, and the costs of being unassertive. You’ll also reflect on how assertive you are in different areas of your life.
Week 2
Recognizing Assertive Behaviour
- Learn to distinguish between passive, aggressive, passive-aggressive, and assertive communication styles—including verbal and non-verbal cues.
Week 3
Thinking More Assertively
- Explore how unhelpful thoughts interfere with assertiveness and begin to practice more helpful thinking styles using tools like thought diaries and behavioural experiments.
Week 4
Behaving More Assertively
- Build practical communication strategies, including assertive body language, “I” statements, and active listening techniques.
Week 5
Reducing Physical Tension
- Identify where tension shows up in your body and explore simple techniques to manage physical discomfort, helping you stay grounded during challenging conversations.
Week 6
Saying “No” Assertively
- Explore common barriers to saying no and learn different ways to decline respectfully while staying true to your needs and values.
Week 7
Dealing with Criticism Assertively
- Learn how to handle criticism (and give it constructively), while challenging beliefs that may make feedback feel threatening or overwhelming.
Week 8
Managing Disappointment Assertively
- Unpack how you typically respond to disappointment, and develop more compassionate, assertive ways to process and communicate through it.
Week 9
Giving and Receiving Compliments
- Explore why compliments can be uncomfortable and practice accepting them graciously. Learn to offer meaningful compliments assertively.
Week 10
Putting It All Together
- Review the skills and insights you’ve developed and create a plan to keep building your assertiveness in real-life situations. You’ll also revisit your self-assessment to reflect on your progress.
Next Session:
Start Date:
End Date:
Format:
Frequency: Weekly
Total sessions: 10
Cost per session: $40/session (Total: $400)
Group size: Limit of 6