Group therapy is a type of psychotherapy that is often used for individuals who are battling addiction. A group therapy session involves one or two therapists working with various clients simultaneously.
This therapy method aims to relieve distress by discussing and expressing feelings openly. This helps to change attitudes, behaviors, and habits that may not be unhelpful to the person participating. Group therapy promotes constructive ways of coping. Some groups focus on providing individuals with information about specific issues or teaching them coping skills.
This type of therapy typically involves around 12 members, including the therapist, who meet one to two hours weekly. All members sit in a way that enables each person to be seen and heard. The therapist aids each group session by guiding the process and providing structure for a more constructive therapy session.
Types of Group Therapy
Group therapy takes many forms, and how it is administered depends on the goals. There are two main types of groups: process-oriented and psycho-educational.
Process-Oriented Groups
A significant goal of process-oriented groups is the interpersonal experience between group members. Process-oriented groups focus on members opening up, which can be a challenge. However, it also leads to individual growth as members gain a sense of belonging and acceptance among their peers.
The foundation of a process-oriented group may be on a shared issue in the members’ lives, such as addiction. However, it can also be based on the interactions that arise within the group.
Process-oriented groups often have a flexible structure and agenda for each session. The members typically set the agenda, with the therapist facilitating each session.
Psychoeducational Groups
A psychoeducational group focuses on sharing information on a specific topic or teaching the members skills. For instance, a psychoeducational group therapy session may provide members with techniques to manage their anger.
In this group, the relationship between the members isn’t necessarily important. But, members may find value in connecting with some of the members within the group that have a shared experience.
Common Types of Group Therapy Sessions
Group therapy can be further broken down into groups dealing with similar problems, though not always. Some therapy sessions are specific to certain populations, while others may be more general.
Here are some common types of group therapy sessions:
- Substance abuse
- Grief
- PTSD
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Bipolar disorder
- Eating disorder
- Caregiving
Group Therapy vs Individual Therapy
Group therapy and individual therapy have quite a few similarities. But they are still two different types of therapies. Individual therapy occurs when one person is in a session with a counselor, psychologist, therapist, or psychiatrist.
Group therapy offers a more loosely defined structure when more than one person is treated together in a therapeutic environment.
5 Benefits of Group Therapy
Group therapy sessions offer a variety of rewarding benefits to its members. Group therapy helps build social and communication skills, develops a sense of self-awareness, and provides a safe environment for members to learn and grow. Here is a closer look at some of the many benefits of group therapy:
A Safe Space to Thrive
Everyone deserves a safe space. This is especially important for those who may be dealing with addiction. A secure environment is one of the significant benefits of attending group therapy. While group therapy encourages you to speak, you do not have to open up until you are comfortable.
However, listening to others talk about their challenges can make it easier for the participant to open up. In addition, group therapy promotes the idea that what is discussed in the group remains. This can make it easier for participants to open up about their feelings in a safe, secure, and comfortable environment.
Opportunity to Learn from Others
Another benefit of group therapy is allowing people to learn from others. Only the patient and the therapist are involved in an individual group session. In group therapy, participants get the invaluable experience of learning about themselves through hearing about other members’ struggles.
Other members of group therapy will likely have challenges similar to yours. For this reason, group therapy sessions can be beneficial for gaining insight that participants may not have been able to receive otherwise.
Allow You to Be Heard
It’s not always easy for a person to use their voice and vocalize feelings. During struggles, it can be hard to communicate feelings effectively. Regularly attending group therapy sessions can help participants find and use their voices comfortably with practice.
Group therapy sessions provide a safe space for all members to communicate openly without judgment. As a result, members can speak freely without the stress and anxiety that may be experienced under different circumstances.
Promote Social Skills
The nature of group therapy allows participants to build critical social skills that will help them communicate and build confidence. By continuously engaging in the group, participants can practice being in different social situations that may typically cause anxiety.
This is primarily an excellent benefit for those who deal with social anxiety and depression. Group therapy can help individuals not be so withdrawn and challenge them to leave their comfort zones. In addition, this format can help break cycles that make it difficult to socialize with others.
More Affordable than Individual Therapy
Affordability is often a common roadblock for those seeking therapeutic benefits. Even if affordability isn’t an issue, many people enjoy access to more affordable therapy sessions.
Group therapy is a more cost-effective solution than individual therapy. Even better, it is as effective as attending a personal therapy session.
Addiction Treatment with Southern California Sunrise Recovery Center
Group therapy is a powerful tool for those dealing with addiction that can be used to enhance their quality of life. Here at Southern California Sunrise Recovery Center, we support individuals dealing with addiction through various services. We provide comprehensive rehab services, which include group counseling sessions, individual counseling, experimental therapy, and more. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can support you.
