Group therapy is when a therapist works with several people at a time. In the book The Theory and Practice of Psychotherapy, author Irvin D. Yalom describes the benefits of group therapy, as reported by people who have experienced it. According to those reports, group therapy:
- Instills hope
- Reminds people they are not alone
- Allows members to share knowledge and information
- Boosts self-esteem and self-confidence
- Acts as a type of family; members can learn about dynamics that played out in their own families and avoid destructive behaviors
- Allows people to practice new behaviors in a safe space
- Gives members positive examples; they can learn from the healthy behaviors of others in the group
- Teaches people about themselves through interacting with the group
- Promotes a sense of belonging
- Brings catharsis through sharing feelings with a group of supportive people
- Helps people realize they are responsible for their own lives and behaviors
Many groups are designed to treat a specific problem, such as anxiety, depression, or social phobia. Most addiction treatment centers offer group therapy along with individual therapy. This allows clients to receive support from peers in recovery and learn to communicate effectively without substances.
In group therapy at an addiction treatment center, people relate to one another about their addictions. They are able to offer each other specific guidance based on personal experience.
Group therapy allows people in addiction treatment to learn important social skills—such as listening and setting boundaries—that may have suffered in active addiction. Members can build self-awareness, learning through group feedback how their actions and words are perceived. Fellow group members can later become part of a person’s support network.
If you are struggling with a substance use or mental health disorder, there is hope. TruHealing Centers offers high-quality treatment for addiction and mental health disorders in facilities across the country. We offer group therapy—along with individual, family, recreational, and other types of therapy—to help you build support and thrive in recovery. Call an admissions specialist at 410-593-0005.