Addiction can isolate a person from friends, family, and mainstream society. It may seem like no one else understands what they are going through. In recovery, group therapy programs and support groups provide opportunities to connect with others who have been through similar experiences and can listen without judgment.
A group therapy program is included in our comprehensive addiction treatment services because of this. Call Northpoint Omaha today at 888.687.8014 for more information about addiction group counseling.
What Is Addiction Group Counseling?
Group counseling is a type of psychotherapy that involves several patients meeting with a mental health professional. In some cases, more than one therapist might help lead the group. Each group consists of patients who share similar challenges. Patients in addiction support groups discuss their experiences with substance or alcohol use disorders. Typically, patients meet in groups in addition to one-on-one therapy and family therapy.
Depending on the group’s needs, the therapist may introduce several different kinds of treatment techniques. Some typical approaches used in group counseling include:
- Art therapy
- Music therapy
- Equine therapy
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy
- Trauma therapy
- Talk therapy
Usually, groups include about 5 to 15 people and meet once or twice a week. In a recovery setting, meetings may be more frequent. To keep the group focused and productive, the therapist will set boundaries and provide guidelines each member must agree to respect.
The therapist may have specific goals for each group meeting, but they will often let the group’s needs guide the direction of the sessions.
Addiction group counseling is different from an addiction support group. Counseling implies a therapist or some type of mental health professional is overseeing the group. Addiction support groups are often peer-led and may be based on a specific format, such as the 12-Step or SMART Recovery models.
Benefits of Addiction Support Groups
At its core, an addiction support group is about sharing your own experiences and listening to other people as they share theirs. The goal is to help group members practice healthy behaviors and support their recovery by building a community.
Many people who struggle with addiction need help learning how to socialize again without using drugs or alcohol. Support groups also provide an opportunity to bond with others who are committed to sober living. Other benefits of participating in a recovery support group include:
- Gaining structure and accountability
- Being reminded that you are not alone
- Increasing self-acceptance as guilt and shame decrease
- Learning and practicing new communication skills in a controlled environment
- Staying inspired about recovery
- Learning about different perspectives by listening to others
- Getting the chance to support others and receive support
- Having a safe place to talk about personal topics
- Creating sober friendships and a sober network
Recovering from addiction is an extensive process that continues long after rehab is over. Support groups provide another form of accountability that can help people avoid relapses or seek the help they need if they relapse.
Guilt and shame often prevent people from reaching out, but the mutual support and understanding in the group setting make it easier for those struggling to seek help.
Northpoint Omaha Offers Addiction Group Counseling
Part of recovering from addiction is learning new skills and how to apply them in everyday situations. Group counseling allows our patients to practice new interpersonal skills under the guidance of a qualified counselor, and support groups can continue to benefit patients as they navigate life after rehab.
Building a sober community during rehab gives patients the confidence and resources to continue meeting their health goals once they have completed treatment. If you or someone you care about could benefit from addiction group counseling, contact Northpoint Omaha today at 888.687.8014.