Group therapy is a technique that has proven to be highly effective in treating substance use disorder. For many recovering addicts, group therapy is an integral part of their journey to sobriety. Connecting with peers assists in dealing with the shame and isolation of addiction.
Group therapy offers a safe space where individuals can be vulnerable and face their worst fears. Recovering addicts can see themselves in their peers and vice versa. Group therapy also perfectly complements family therapy, individual therapy, and other types of addiction treatment.
Keep reading to learn more about the various types of group therapy for addiction.
What is Group Therapy?
Group therapy is a particular type of counseling used to treat various psychological disorders, including substance use and addiction. During group therapy sessions, one or more therapists work with a group of people receiving treatment for the same condition. In addition to getting professional help, individuals benefit from support from their peers.
Group therapy can take place in different settings, such as:
- Mental health clinics
- Community centers
- Private practice settings
Types of Group Therapy
As discussed below, there are several types of group therapy in addiction treatment.
1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for Addiction
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is a psychotherapy approach that aids in treating substance use disorders. This approach is particularly helpful when part of an entire recovery program.
CBT is based on the idea that a person’s actions are influenced by their thoughts, not external stimuli. The recovering addict may not be able to change the circumstances around their addiction. However, they can change how they view the circumstances. This, according to CBT, changes how the individual feels and behaves.
CBT can help an individual:
- Exercise more self-control
- Recognize triggering circumstances
- Avoid triggers, where possible
- Come up with coping strategies to help them deal with triggering situations
The main goals of CBT group therapy are to develop new coping skills. Patients will also learn how to do away with old habits and manage painful emotions better.
2. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Group Therapy
DBT is a psychotherapy technique used to treat mental illnesses, substance abuse, and addiction. One of the primary goals of DBT is to increase patients’ confidence in their coping abilities to handle stressful situations successfully.
The core tenets of DBT in addiction treatment are:
- Improving communication skills
- Improving coping skills
- Building a positive self-image
DBT helps recovering addicts learn various skills. These skills include emotional regulation, mindfulness, distress tolerance, and interpersonal skills. Learning how to use these skills can help them avoid relapsing. The main strategies used in DBT are:
- Teaching addicts to get rid of triggers like drug paraphernalia and relationships
- Instilling self-esteem and confidence to help the recovering addicts maintain their sobriety even through stressful situations
Alternative Group Therapies for Addiction
In addition to the types of group therapies mentioned above, the following are some alternative group therapies that can help recovery:
1. Emotional Freedom Techniques
This approach is commonly referred to as tapping. It involves tapping the parts of the body related to meridians using the tips of the fingers. While tapping, an individual will make verbal statements of the current problems.
The emotional freedom technique is a powerful approach to dealing with the underlying causes of addiction. It also helps recovering addicts resist cravings.
2. Mindfulness-Based Therapies
People battling addiction often feel disconnected from their bodies and may engage in substance abuse to numb their feelings. In simpler terms, the addicts use drugs on automatic pilot and not from a place of complete awareness.
Group therapy that involves mindfulness training can help recovering addicts increase awareness and connect with their inner selves. This helps them to understand addiction’s role in their lives better. They learn about better ways to handle stressors in their lives instead of turning to drugs and alcohol.
Yoga is an excellent way to practice mindfulness. For most people, practicing yoga brings about a sense of interconnectedness. This mindfulness may address the feelings of isolation and shame associated with addiction.
3. Equine Therapy
Equine-Assisted Therapy can be addressed by an equine specialist and a licensed mental health professional in a group setting. Group activities include taking care of the horses and other structured activities addressing deeply-rooted therapeutic issues. Individuals do not have to know how to ride a horse because all activities are handled on the ground.
The relationships formed with the horses are often a direct reflection of how the addict relates with themselves and others. Hidden issues come out during one-on-one interactions with the horses. This process helps therapists to identify the various problems that fuel addiction.
4. Art Therapy
Art therapy presents a prime opportunity for individuals to deal with deep-rooted issues. Some of these issues may be a source of their addiction. The following are the top benefits of art therapy:
- The process is generally relaxing
- The addict’s art pieces can be evaluated by a therapist to uncover hidden issues that may cause the addiction.
Benefits of Group Therapy
There are many advantages of group therapy, for example:
- Interacting with other people who are also trying their best to battle addiction can be advantageous for beginners.
- Seeing other people open up encourages individuals to be candid about their struggles. This helps them reduce stress and pain.
- During group therapy, members strengthen each other to avoid triggers that may make them relapse.
- Individuals can form relationships between group members that can be used for support and encouragement outside sessions.
Get Help for Addiction in Temecula, CA
One’s level of motivation will be significantly influenced by finding a recovery center that feels like home. Inland Detox provides comprehensive treatment solutions while providing addicts with the support to recover. We understand that seeking treatment can be intimidating, and we are here to ease the process.
Inland Detox provides detoxification and inpatient treatment for those struggling with drug or alcohol addiction. If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction, reach out to Inland Detox today. Our team can answer any questions you may have and give you a better understanding of our program.