Substance Abuse Treatment and Group Therapy

Advantages of Group Therapy

1. Group therapy can provide members an opportunity to learn about their substance abuse and the recovery process with a trained professional.  In some groups, members can ask questions about their addiction and receive answers either from other more seasoned group members or from the group facilitator.
2. Group therapy is therapy even if others are present.  A person can receive assistance with challenging irrational thoughts related to their addiction and can receive therapeutic intervention in terms of family dynamics or dysfunctional behaviors.
3. Group members are offered a safe environment in which to discuss their issues with others and each member must acknowledge the group rules including confidentiality and informed consent.
4. Group therapy provides a support network to those in recovery.  Many members find it helpful to listen to how others are working a program of recovery with input from the group facilitator.
5. The group facilitator can provide therapeutic input and feedback that can benefit the entire group.  Some group facilitators will have a theme for a particular group, such as what to do instead of drinking alcohol or taking a drug.  This collaborative educational process can help group members and allow for cross-sharing of ideas.
6. Group therapy is typically offered in a structured environment.  There are rules to be followed when attending group therapy and the group facilitator will outline these rules at the beginning of each session.  These rules might include one person speaks at a time, questions will be answered once everyone has had a chance to speak, or no cross-communication.  These rules enable a type of structure and routine that can be considered important for the recovering addict.