Group addiction therapy is standard at most Orange County substance abuse treatment centers. There are two types and two subtypes of group counseling. These revolve around how therapists conduct the sessions and who participates in them. All of them can be effective, but the best option depends on people’s unique needs.
Revolving groups consist of members who come and go when the time is right. Because of that, the groups have an ever-changing assortment of members. Fixed groups include of a set amount of people throughout addiction treatment. No members join or leave once the sessions begin, so these groups usually have no more than 15 members.
Within these types are the ongoing and time-limited subtypes of group counseling. Ongoing groups allow the members to attend depending on their progress during rehab. Time-limited groups only allow the members to participate in a certain number of sessions or amount of time.
Group Counseling Models
Group therapists use different models for counseling based on what the members need. In some cases, they take advantage of multiple models, shifting them within or between sessions.
The psychoeducational model is essential for group addiction therapy because it provides education. The members learn about addiction, mental health, and related behaviors and consequences. Counselors may hold the sessions in classroom settings so that they can use lecture, audio, and video formats.
The cognitive behavioral therapy model is widespread because it addresses cognitive and behavior issues. The concept is that distorted thoughts can cause negative feelings that lead to destructive behavior. For instance, those who believe that they are bad tend to feel like they don’t deserve to be sober. By changing how they think, they can improve their mood and develop more constructive behavior.
Group addiction therapy often uses the skills development model as well. During the sessions, therapists will take on the roles of teachers. They’ll adapt the educational materials and activities that they use according to each member’s needs. Their goal is to help the group develop life skills that support healthy living without drug use.
The interpersonal process model aims to promote healing by helping people understand how others think. It involves the therapists noting how each person feels, interacts with others and functions within the group. Their focus is on helping people develop healthy coping skills and improve their judgment.
Benefits of Group Addiction Therapy
Since people in group addiction therapy focus on common goals, they gain guidance and insight into their problems. They learn skills such as anger management, healthy eating, meditation, and relaxation. These help them achieve and maintain abstinence.
At the same time, people attain comfort knowing that others have similar problems and that they aren’t alone. Having the ability to share their experiences and information with others also gives them a confidence boost. The peer sharing and support even reduce guilt, stress, and pain. In addition, the members help each other avoid destructive behaviors and stay on the path of sobriety.
Group Counseling at Clear Life Recovery
Are you ready to get help for your addiction? You can experience the benefits that group counseling offers at Clear Life Recovery. We want to make sure that you receive the level of care that you need. To achieve that, our treatment facility features an Orange County PHP program, IOP program, and residential program.
Also, Clear Life Recovery provides medical detox to begin your addiction treatment. Having detox and rehab services in one place eliminates the need for you to transfer from another facility. Throughout your treatment, our team will use evidence-based and holistic therapies that address your needs. Some examples of our services include:
- Nutrition therapy
- Jiu-jitsu training
- Boxing
- SMART recovery program
- Addiction therapy services
Put an end to the damage that addiction has done and continues to do in your life. Build a network of support through group addiction therapy at Clear Life Recovery. Contact 866-261-7291 to learn more about our programs and therapies.