From Survivor to Self: How Process Groups Reclaim Identity

Professor Peterson’s Psychology Classroom · Sep 19, 2026 · 6m · transcript

Dr. Curtis Peterson explains how process groups help people who have experienced trauma shift from an identity defined by abuse to a fuller sense of self. He outlines the differences between psychoeducational groups, treatment groups, and professional-led process groups, emphasizing symptom management, emotional processing, and relational repair.

The episode focuses on "identity decoupling": recognizing trauma or addiction as part of one’s experience but not what defines or controls them, so individuals can manage symptoms and rebuild healthy relationships with themselves and others.