Group therapy is based on the understanding that group dynamics can enhance the effects of mental health therapy. Generally, group therapy does not have to replace individual counseling but can operate alongside it as another access point to healing. Most addiction treatment centers offer a group therapy program. The benefits of peer support and mutual accountability make this treatment method an important, evidence-based element in addiction rehab.
To find out about the benefits of group counseling for recovery, reach out to Apex Recovery Nashville. We can answer your questions and support you as you think about the next steps. Contact us by phone at 615.703.4639 or by reaching out to us online
What Is Group Therapy?
The benefits of peer support groups are well-documented. But group therapy is therapy. Your peers in recovery also participate, but it is not a peer support group, which has no defined leader or agenda and is intended entirely as a peer-led opportunity to support one another. In group therapy, you are guided by a mental health counselor, and in some cases may be more than one, all the while benefiting from the support and example of peers on a similar journey.
A therapy group can be as small as two people, though five to 15 is ideal. Sometimes the sessions will focus on a specific issue or problem that contributes to substance use disorders (SUDs), and other groups are designed to work directly on specific skills, such as how to deal with anger, low self-esteem, isolation, etc.
Usually, once a group has begun, it is a closed group so that the work everyone is doing can continue without the introduction of new members. Though sometimes clients will opt for group therapy or individual therapy alone, the interplay between the two modalities offers more opportunities for growth and change. Having the opportunity to do both while in rehab is excellent, as each has its own therapeutic benefits.
Five of the Biggest Benefits of Group Therapy
Group therapy taps into group dynamics as well as evidence-based therapy practices in order to help people move forward with their mental health and sobriety. Some of the benefits of group counseling are listed below:
- Inclusion – Addiction leads to isolation. In group therapy, you won’t feel alone and you won’t be able to revert to isolationist habits. You will share the experience of addiction and recovery and work together. Even though group therapy is not a peer-support group, each member benefits from the support of others.
- Diversity – Every member of your group will have something in common with you—addiction. But each person will come to the group with different personalities, life experiences, and perspectives. You will have access to new ideas and strategies by watching how they approach challenges and make changes.
- Accountability – Members of the group may see a situation through a new lens that helps them open up to possibilities. As you process with them, they can then help hold you accountable because they are as invested in you as you are in them.
- Social skills – Learning useful skills that will make re-entry into post-rehab life more manageable and successful is part of group therapy. You can practice sober interactions with peers in a safe environment.
- Empathy – The early days and months of recovery can be full of complex feelings and fears. You are no longer in denial, but the truth can be painful. In group therapy, you will see your peers speak with honesty and vulnerability about their journeys. They will inspire you to do the same and feel safe and seen. The compassion that you all develop for one another is a huge part of your healing.
In addition to group therapy at Apex Recovery, you will have access to a wide range of evidence-based and alternative therapies and treatments that will work in concert to help you heal and return to sobriety.
Learn More About Apex Recovery Nashville’s Group Therapy Program
The benefits of group therapy can be seen every day at Apex Recovery Nashville. You are likely to see group therapy in your individualized treatment plan. Group therapy counselors may pull on a range of therapy models, such as behavioral therapies, as they plan the group sessions.
You probably have questions. Reach out to us to have them answered by one of our expert staff. We are here to help. Call us at 615.703.4639 or connect with us online today.