Group therapy is an important part of all rehab recovery programs. Rehab centers use this type of therapy in combination with individual therapy to give people a diverse range of treatment. What makes therapy in a group setting so useful? It’s important for people to know the benefits of group counseling.
What Is Group Therapy?
Unlike individual therapy, group counseling takes place with peers. A group of people with similar addictions or problems participate in these sessions. Generally, a professional therapist leads the group discussion.
During counseling, people talk about the issues that they face in their everyday lives. The therapist helps them see how drugs negatively impact their lives and cause their problems. The participants usually find comfort in the fact that others suffer from the same challenges that they do.
Identifying Problems and Other Benefits
In a group setting, people gain a much deeper understanding of their addictions. Experts say that it helps for people to see the problems in others instead of themselves first. Once they identify the problems, they can relate it back to their own lives. Group counseling provides a range of other benefits as well.
Provides Companionship
People with addiction often feel cut off from others and that they have to deal with the disease alone. Breaking this cycle of loneliness is important because it prevents self-medicating to feel more connected.
Group therapy provides a level of companionship that other types of therapy such as individual counseling, can’t offer. People usually find comfort in the support that they get from others. Group counseling also creates a support system that helps them on their journey to sobriety.
Teaches Communication
When people suffer from addiction, they often feel like they can’t talk to anyone about their problems. They feel like others don’t understand what they go through on a daily basis. Group therapy teaches them that they have to talk about their problems so that others can help.
Working on communication also teaches them how to vent properly. Learning how to vent frustrations well helps them reduce stress. They lose the feeling of isolation because the speaker talks about topics that the listener understands.
Gives Insight Into Problems
Sometimes it’s hard for people to see their own problems. It’s even more difficult for them to see the solutions to those problems. It takes someone who isn’t as emotionally involved to see the solution. Group counseling provides that level of insight.
In a group setting, peers can give feedback on the problems that others share. They also get insight from the therapist who leads the group discussion. Gaining a new perspective on the matter is sometimes all that they need to solve the problem.
Makes People Stronger
In a group setting, people soon learn that tackling problems is easier with help from others. When they form a close-knit group, they feel stronger together. Their bonds help them overcome addiction and avoid relapse in the future.
Let The Dunes East Hampton Show You How Group Counseling Can Help
If you’re ready to begin your journey to recovery through group counseling and other evidence-based methods, then come see us at The Dunes of East Hampton. We provide a variety of therapy options, including group therapy. Some programs that we offer include:
- Aftercare
- Interventions
- Residential rehab
- Intensive outpatient programs
- Experiential therapy
We offer a very small client-to-staff ratio. In general, you can expect around 10 to 11 clinicians helping nine people. We also offer holistic therapy to further reduce stress in our residents. Some of our holistic options include acupuncture, yoga and medication.
Visit our addiction treatment specialists today at The Dunes of East Hampton. Learn how our recovery programs can keep you from relapsing after treatment. Reach out to our friendly staff at 877-818-5539 for more information.