Many individuals suffer from mental health conditions, ranging from substance use disorder and various psychiatric disorders. Fortunately, there are many forms of evidence-based treatments available. Group therapy, in particular, has been found to be extremely beneficial for patients suffering from mental health issues. To explain, group therapy is typically a small group of 10 or fewer patients, facilitated by 1-2 therapists. Depending on the type of treatment you are receiving, whether it be inpatient, IOP, or OP, therapy sessions are held 1-5 times a week and involve talking and listening to each other’s concerns or progress. Also, therapy facilitated in a group setting allows patients to feel open to express their beliefs, thoughts, and emotions, without fear of judgment or retaliation. Here are some of the primary advantages of group therapy.
Types of Group Therapy
Oftentimes, individuals assume that group therapy is always a group of people sitting in a circle discussing their feelings. While this is one of therapy, there are other types of group counseling available. For example, therapy sessions will vary in practice depending on the specific treatment center’s specialties.
Examples of different types of group therapy include:
- Workshops for specific skill-building
- Expressive or creative therapy such as painting, dance or writing
- Yoga or meditation classes
- Group outings
Therapy conducted in a small-group setting is known to be especially beneficial for teens, as they are more likely to listen to their peers than authoritative figures. It is also beneficial for individuals suffering from:
- Anxiety disorders
- Depression disorders
- Addiction or substance abuse
- Relationship or Marital Issues
- Grief
- Loss
- Trauma
- Self-esteem
- Eating disorders
- Lack of social skills
While this form of therapy may be intimidating to some individuals, there are many advantages of group therapy that patients will receive.
The Advantages of Group Therapy
Group therapy has been proven as an effective treatment for various mental health conditions and substance use disorder. Oftentimes, group therapy is considered more effective than individual therapy for certain individuals, such as teenagers and young adults. This is because being in an environment with other patients who are dealing with similar issues allows individuals to identify with others. If your therapist or primary care doctor has suggested this form of therapy, here are some of the things you can expect.
Developing Social Skills
Many individuals who suffer from conditions such as addiction or other mental disorders struggle with poor social skills. For example, patients suffering from anxiety, depression, or substance use disorder may find it difficult to exhibit socially acceptable behavior at times. Fortunately, group therapy teaches patients conversational skills as well as crucial listening and understanding skills. Also, some patients suffering from anti-social disorders or phobias can integrate into group therapy as they progress in individual counseling.
Building Healthy Relationships
Patients attending group therapy will develop healthy social skills, leading to the ability to build healthy relationships with others. This is because group therapy allows patients to meet and connect with other individuals who understand their pain. As a result, patients create strong bonds and connections with people they relate to. Additionally, the friends that patients make during group therapy are great listeners, keep private matters private, and will let you know when you are behaving in a manner that is destructive to your progress.
A Safe Environment to Discuss Trauma
Oftentimes, individuals find it difficult to open up about intimate issues or traumas they have experienced. However, group therapy provides patients with a safe place to discuss such issues. In fact, group therapy is a huge factor during trauma treatment programs. During group therapy, patients are surrounded by peers who have experienced similar traumas or symptoms as them. As a result, patients are able to discuss and receive advice about real-world issues without fear of judgment.
Creating a Support System
Group therapy is an effective way to give and receive support. Many individuals who suffer from mental health conditions or addiction lack solid support systems. This can perpetuate addiction or poor mental health, making it more difficult for an individual to recover. However, individuals attending group therapy are able to connect with their peers on an intimate level. As a result, patients will learn how to build and utilize a healthy support system.
New Perspectives and Insight
Due to the varying perspectives during group therapy, patients will gain new insight into their issues and traumas. For example, something you may not think to bring up during individual therapy may be brought up by another patient in your group therapy session. As a result, you will be able to identify your problem and gain multiple perspectives on how to resolve said issue. Also, group therapy helps you to find your voice, figure out what your beliefs and opinions are, and what your recovery goals are.
Group Therapy at CWC Recovery
Many individuals have found group therapy to be extremely beneficial and effective in nature. Recovering from an addiction or mental disorder can be extremely difficult, especially when attempting to recover alone. However, individuals who attend group therapy are able to receive ongoing advice and support from their peers. Overall, the advantages of group therapy are endless. If you or a loved one suffer from addiction or mental health conditions, group therapy may be best suited for you.
“At Comprehensive Wellness Centers, we fully understand the physical, psychological and spiritual impacts of addiction. As recovering addicts or family members of those suffering from substance abuse, the treatment staff at our drug rehab center in Florida has the experience, drive, and dedication to help you reach your goal of a successful and lifelong recovery. No matter how severe your addiction may be, Comprehensive Treatment Centers can tailor an individualized program that meets your unique needs.”
Contact CWC Recovery today for more information on group therapy.
