Participating in a group therapy program can be intimidating for someone recovering from drug or alcohol abuse. It can be difficult enough to speak freely to an individual therapist, and the thought of opening up to a group of people can be even more challenging. But a group therapy program can be can be one of the more effective addiction treatment therapies.

What Is a Group Therapy Program?

Recovery programs for those facing addiction often include group therapy. This type of therapy entails grouping people who face similar problems and getting them to work together to understand their challenges and themselves better. These programs have been practiced for a long time and offer important advantages over one-on-one treatment programs.

The treatment became widely used following World War II. Many soldiers who returned home after the end of the war needed psychotherapy, and the vast number of people needing treatment prompted professionals to treat these people in groups. And while the treatment was facilitated out of need, results proved effective for both physical and mental health. A group therapy program is effective for alcohol and drug addiction, as well as a variety of other applications that include:

  • Yoga therapy
  • Body image improvement
  • Process groups
  • Relapse prevention
  • Coping Skills

A group therapy program is a critical component in the journey to recovery. Sharing the challenges you face with your peers can be very empowering. The knowledge that you are not alone in your struggle can open you up to help, which is an important step in your recovery. The social interaction of working through your issues with peers is also integral support and can be a critical factor in preventing a relapse.

A group therapy program also allows members to cheer for one another and keep everyone on track to achieve their goals. Topics brought up in a group setting can enable members to see their struggles in a new light.

People who participate in a group therapy program in Georgia become inspired to adopt new behaviors in a safe environment before facing the real world. This environment also effectively dispels common myths related to their addiction and their feelings of being alone in confronting their challenges.

Different Types of Group Therapy Programs

Various types of group therapy models are used to treat substance abuse that includes:

Support groups allow members to take on a role in inspiring changes in other group members. In such groups, participants examine common excuses that can lead to bad habits. Another type of group addiction therapy involves a cognitive-behavioral group. In such groups, a leader helps members avoid negative thoughts that can lead to poor outcomes. Instead, this group therapy stresses healthy habits that reinforce strategies to remain sober.

Psychoeducational groups focus on teaching members about substance abuse and the accompanying effects on their bodies. The skill development group therapy emphasizes essential skill development to kick any addiction. The last type of group therapy is psychotherapy, which explores members’ past relationships and situations to avoid such reoccurrence.

These different types of group therapy programs are employed at different stages in the addiction process. For instance, skill development, cognitive-behavioral, and psychoeducational groups are crucial in the initial stages, while support groups are implemented after the initial rehabilitation stages.

In most instances, a group therapy program in Georgia will employ different types of group therapy depending on the individual client’s needs.

Recover with Your Peers in Group Therapy at Georgia Addiction Treatment Center

Becoming part of a group in overcoming alcohol or drug addiction can provide amazing support and results. Do not hesitate to contact Georgia Addiction Treatment Center at 855.952.3546 for more information on how a group therapy program can help.

Take Your Life Back Today!

If you or someone you care about is struggling with a substance abuse problem or mental health issues, the expert medical team at the Georgia Addiction Treatment Center is here to help.