Recovering from addiction is a challenging and often tumultuous process. To make the process even more difficult, many rehab centers don’t offer support groups beyond 12-Step meetings commonly associated with drug and alcohol recovery. Breaking free from addiction is essentially a process of unlearning destructive habits and adopting positive replacements. With the proper support, we can successfully leave our addictions behind and move forward with our lives.
What Is Group Therapy?
Group therapy is a type of psychotherapy that takes place in a group setting. It can be short-term or long-term, and it can be directed at individuals or couples. Group therapy can be particularly helpful for people with substance use disorder (SUD) because it allows them to relate to others who are going through similar experiences and can empathize with how they feel. It can take many forms, depending on the group members and the group’s goals. Group members may participate in discussions, encourage each other to take risks, or perform some group task. Group therapy can involve various people and situations to help participants learn from others, gain insight from the group process, and take away knowledge they can apply to their own lives.
Why Is Group Therapy So Important for Recovery?
A benefit of group therapy is the relationships you build with others, and studies show that it is an extremely viable treatment option for substance abuse and anxiety disorders. It’s an opportunity to meet new people who are going through the same experience you are. Group therapy is also an opportunity to learn from others’ experiences, as well as to share your own. The relationships you build in group therapy can be extremely valuable for your recovery. Sometimes the relationships you make in group therapy will last long after you leave rehab; you can use them for support throughout the rest of your life. On a more practical level, group therapy is also a great way to make new connections. Having a support network you can rely on is extremely helpful during times of stress and can make the process of leaving your addiction behind a whole lot easier.
Counselor-Led Groups in Rehab
Most people think of counselor-led groups in rehab when they hear the term “group therapy.” These groups have a set focus and are led by a licensed addiction counselor. The goal of counselor-led groups is to bring everyone together, build connections, and use those connections to help group members achieve their goals. In group therapy, each person is given an opportunity to share their story, as well as ask any questions they may have.
Group therapy can have as many settings as it does styles. Sometimes they’re approached from a meditative standpoint, while others may involve outdoor physical exercise. The most important aspect of group therapy is the realization that we are not alone in our struggle to find healing. Knowing that we’re walking the same path as others can make recovery more attainable.
Group therapy is a powerful tool that can help you on your road to recovery. Whether it’s a counselor-led group or a peer-led group, group therapy is an excellent way to meet new people, build new relationships, and learn from others who are in a similar position as you. No matter which type of group therapy you choose, you’re sure to gain a lot from it. If you or someone you know could benefit from treatment that offers a group therapy option, please call The Guest House at (855) 483-7800.