Group Counseling Offered

Also known as group therapy, group counseling is one of the processes that is offered as part of the addiction treatment and recovery process. Its efficacy has been shown to work in helping people overcome their substance use disorders.

About Group Counseling

Group counseling is a form of therapy that is offered in a group setting. Addicts struggling with similar or related substance use disorders sit down with an addiction recovery and treatment counselor or therapist and discuss the issues that they face on a daily basis. This way, the group get the opportunity to learn from others - as well as form a sort of support system.

The role of group therapy is to allow people to share their experiences with the others in the group, particular when they are all dealing with the same or related issues. Generally, these groups can consist of about 3 or 4 members or as many as possible - but not more than 12.

They are often held once or two times a week for anywhere between 1 and 2 hours. Research has also shown that these meetings tend to be more effective when they are offered as part of an inpatient addiction treatment program.

The type of the group will often be determined by the counselor or therapist. However, you can expect them to include skills development, psychoeducational treatment, addiction education, and support groups.

Importance of Group Therapy

The importance of group counseling cannot be overemphasized. This type of therapy and counseling is often used for the treatment of such psychological and behavioral disorders as substance abuse and addiction.

It involves regular sessions in which therapists - one or more - will work with several people who are dealing with the same substance abuse issues and problems. Research now shows that many people tend to benefit from the effects and support that they receive when they participate in these therapy settings.

In many cases, group counseling will allow you to interact with others who are also learning how to overcome and cope with their alcohol or drug addiction. This could prove useful, particularly during the early stages of your recovery process.

Through this type of setting, you will also get the opportunity to realize that you are not alone in your struggles against addiction. Further, you will be able to share your own unique experiences and new information with others in the group. This could boost your self-esteem and confidence. By sharing your feelings and experiences, you may also be able to reduce the feelings of pain, guilt, and stress - both inside yourself as well as among the other members of your group.

Through group counseling, you will also learn how to avoid the destructive behaviors that led you down the road to substance abuse and addiction. These behaviors include but are not limited to actively seeking out alcohol and drugs. you will also, at the same time, start learning and practicing other new and healthy behaviors.

Getting Help

In many cases, group counseling is offered as part of an addiction treatment program - both in inpatient and outpatient drug rehab settings. It is recommended that you take it seriously because it could help you get started on the road to recovery, as well as remain on their path in the long term.