Between October 2018 and September 2019, Maricopa County had 1,389 substance use-related overdose deaths. Substance use is a problem in our area, but those struggling with substance use disorder often feel alone. Feeling alone can drive someone to isolate themselves from healthy relationships further, causing them to cope with increased substance use. Thoughts like “they could never understand” or “they just think I’m a failure” can prevent a person from belonging to a supportive community.
The truth is, many understand the struggle of substance use disorder. You can find these individuals in group therapy treatment.
What Are Group Therapy Services?
Group therapy services are a type of therapy that takes place in a group setting. Usually, people in the group struggle with the same kinds of problems. In group therapy for substance use disorder, everyone in the group has had struggles with substance use, and they are looking for ways to find recovery. Participating in group therapy with others who have struggled with substance use disorder can help someone realize that they are not alone. The knowledge that others are struggling in similar ways can bring great relief to someone who has previously suffered in silence.
Types of Group Therapy
There are a few different types of group therapy. One type is called a cognitive behavioral group. In a cognitive behavioral group, a person will work with others to identify and change unhelpful ways of thinking and behaving.
In a psychoeducational group, those in attendance focus on learning skills. In a psychoeducational group focused on substance use recovery, those in attendance will learn ways to overcome their substance use disorder. While members of the group will still benefit from social connections, this kind of support group focuses on teaching and learning.
Process-oriented groups focus on the relationships between the people in attending sessions. In this group, those in attendance will benefit from opening up and discussing shared struggles. Process groups work through challenges and changes together.
What Group Therapy Treats
Group therapy treats many conditions and situations. Some of the mental health conditions treated by group therapy are:
- Panic Disorder
- PTSD
- Depression
- Anxiety
- ADHD
- Phobias
- Eating Disorders
Sometimes group therapy is used to treat a group of individuals who have gone through a similar experience. Examples of experiences commonly treated through group therapy are:
- Grief
- Anger Management
- Divorce
- Domestic Violence
- Weight Management
Group therapy helps people recover from substance use disorder and alcohol use disorder.
Group Therapy Techniques
Group therapy sessions are typically facilitated by a mental health professional trained to provide care to a group of people struggling with the same issue. The facilitator will choose activities and techniques that they believe will help those in attendance achieve their goals. Some methods commonly used are:
- Open discussion
- Guided discussion
- Practicing new techniques
- Social activities
- Sharing recent experiences
- Gratitude activities
- Creative expression
- Visualizing goals
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Benefits of Group Therapy
Participants in group therapy benefit from the social aspect of the group. They’ll meet others working to overcome substance use disorder in a group therapy setting. By doing so, they’re reminded that they’re not alone.
Group therapy gives those who have been in recovery longer a connection to those who just started. Often, those who are new to recovery can benefit from the experience of those who have been working on recovery longer. In addition, those with recovery experience can feel a sense of accomplishment when they share advice. They’ll also feel supported in their journey.
Watching group members interact in a social setting can allow the therapist to observe their patient’s social skills. This information can lead to valuable insight that can be shared with the participants to help them achieve their recovery goals.
Is Group Therapy Right for You?
Do you feel alone in your recovery journey? Do you want a connection with people who know what it is like to struggle with substance use? If so, group therapy is probably a good fit for you. It will connect you to people you can relate to and give you the insight of a mental health professional who wants to see you recover.
Group Therapy Services at Pinnacle Peak Recovery in AZ
If you are seeking recovery from alcohol or substance use and could use a supportive community of people who understand, contact Pinnacle Peak Recovery today at 866-377-4761. Our compassionate staff is waiting to give you more information on group therapy and other treatment options that can help you find success in your recovery journey. You don’t have to struggle alone. Call us today to get the support you need to find healing and wellness!