Can Group Therapy Help a Drug Addiction?

Group therapy is a popular form of treatment at many addiction recovery centers. However, many new patients wonder how effective it really is at helping to combat their addiction problem.

This is a valid question. In order to get the most out of any form of treatment, it’s important for patients to fully understand the potential benefits and drawbacks of each treatment option.

So, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty about how group therapy can help a drug addiction.

Group Therapy Defined

Group therapy is a unique type of counseling often used to treat addiction and substance abuse. In most cases, patients attend regular sessions with a therapist along with several other people who are also receiving treatment for similar issues.

There are several different settings where group therapy is offered, such as in a private practice, mental health clinic, community center, or hospital.

In general, group therapy is held once or twice weekly, and can consist of as few as 3 or 4 participants. The group’s composition and direction is determined by the therapist, and can include skills development lessons, support groups, and psychoeducational therapy.

The Benefits of Group Therapy

One major benefits of group therapy that sets it apart from other treatment options is that it caters to a person’s need to relate to those around them.

As social beings, we all can benefit from relating to others in times of stress and happiness. The support and understanding of other people can help individuals gain higher self-esteem and give them the confidence to follow through in their recovery process.

Destruction of personal relationships is a common consequence of addiction, which leaves many people without someone to talk to about their recovery. Group therapy allows an addict to develop new relationships and build trust again, which are two crucial components of an effective recovery.

Group settings also assist people in developing communication skills (talking and listening) and learning how to set appropriate boundaries.

Combining Therapies

When it comes to addiction and substance abuse treatments, group therapy tends to offer the best results when incorporated as part of a larger inpatient treatment program. Group therapy can be combined with many other treatment options, including individual counseling, therapeutic drug treatment, nutritional therapy, exercise, and other expressive treatment programs.

Practices that reduce stress, such as yoga, massage and meditation can also provide benefits that work well with the benefits of group therapy.

There is no standard treatment that can “cure” addiction as a disease. However, a combination of environmental, behavioral, and health adaptations can go a long way in making it easier for individuals to recover.

Group therapy is one of many treatment options that can deliver effective results when used with the right combination of therapies

If you or a loved one is suffering from substance abuse or drug addiction problems, contact us at Alpine Recovery Lodge to seek treatment today.