G-TEP Group Trauma Therapy
Structured trauma support for groups affected by difficult or distressing experiences.
G-TEP is an EMDR-based group intervention designed to help people process distress connected to traumatic events or cumulative exposure. Participants are guided through a structured process while working privately with their own experiences, without having to share the details of what happened with the group.
What is G-TEP?
G-TEP stands for Group Traumatic Episode Protocol. It adapts elements of EMDR therapy for a group setting, allowing several people to receive trauma-focused support at the same time.
Unlike traditional group counselling, participants are not expected to discuss their experiences with one another. Each person works privately using a structured worksheet while a trained therapist guides the group through grounding, reflection and bilateral stimulation.
G-TEP may be used following a shared critical incident or when a group has experienced repeated or cumulative exposure to difficult events.
Want to learn more about the approach?
Read our article for a more detailed explanation of how G-TEP uses elements of EMDR therapy to support people following traumatic experiences.
Who Can G-TEP Support?
- Employees affected by a workplace incident
- First responders and helping professionals
- Teams exposed to traumatic or distressing material
- Staff experiencing cumulative workplace trauma
- Community groups affected by a shared event
- Organizations wanting to provide early trauma-focused support
G-TEP is not automatically appropriate for every person or situation. Rising Tides consults with the organization and screens prospective participants to determine whether the group is a suitable option.
Understanding G-TEP
This short video provides an introduction to the G-TEP process and explains how participants can work privately with their own experiences within a structured group setting.
What Happens in a G-TEP Session?
G-TEP is carefully planned to help participants feel informed, prepared and supported throughout the process.
1. Consultation & Planning
We begin by speaking with the organization or referring group to understand what happened, who has been affected and what support may be appropriate.
2. Screening & Preparation
Participants receive information about G-TEP and complete a brief screening process to determine whether the group is a suitable option for them.
3. Guided Group Session
Trained therapists guides participants through grounding and structured EMDR-based exercises. Each person works privately and does not have to share their trauma story with the group.
4. Follow Up & Support
Participants receive information about what they may notice after the session, along with recommendations for additional resources or individual support when appropriate.
How is This Different From Group Counselling?
G-TEP is delivered in a group, but it is not a discussion-based support group. Participants work individually with their own memories, thoughts, emotions and body responses while following the same structured process. Personal disclosure to the group is not required.
G-TEP For Work Places & Organizations
Rising Tides works with workplaces and community organizations to determine whether G-TEP could form part of an appropriate response following a critical incident or cumulative exposure to trauma.
The intervention may be offered as a standalone service or incorporated into a broader trauma-support plan. Timing, group size, participant readiness and follow-up needs are considered before a group is scheduled.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Participants are not required to share the details of their traumatic experiences with the group. Each person works privately with their own experiences using a structured worksheet while the therapist guides the overall process.
No. G-TEP takes place in a group setting, but it is not a discussion-based support group. Participants follow the same structured process while working individually with their own memories, thoughts, emotions and body responses.
Not necessarily. G-TEP may be considered for people affected by a shared incident or for groups whose members have experienced repeated or cumulative exposure to distressing events. We consult with the organization to determine whether G-TEP is appropriate for the group.
G-TEP may be suitable for workplaces, first responders, helping professionals, community organizations and other groups affected by traumatic or distressing experiences. Prospective participants are screened because G-TEP will not be the right intervention for every person or situation.
A G-TEP group session is generally about two hours. Additional time is required for consultation, participant screening, preparation and any recommended follow-up.
Group size depends on the circumstances, the needs of the participants and the number of trained facilitators involved. Rising Tides determines an appropriate group size during the consultation and planning process.
No. G-TEP is a focused group intervention and is not a replacement for individual therapy when more personalized or ongoing support is needed. Screening and follow-up may help identify participants who would benefit from additional care.
G-TEP is generally arranged for a group through a workplace, organization or community partner rather than booked as an individual therapy appointment; however, there are elements of G-TEP that can be adapted to single sessions or smaller groups.
Contact Rising Tides to request an initial consultation. We will discuss what has happened, who may be affected, the organization’s goals and whether G-TEP appears to be an appropriate option. If it is, we will develop a plan for screening, delivery and follow-up.
Could G-TEP Support You or Your Organizaiton?
If your workplace, team or community has been affected by a difficult event or cumulative exposure to trauma, contact Rising Tides to discuss what has happened and whether G-TEP may be an appropriate next step.