Group Therapy in Addiction Treatment
The benefits of group therapy in addiction treatment have been well-established both through scientific research and personal testimony. Kolmac currently offers 50 group therapy sessions in multiple locations, making this highly valuable form of support available to our patients.
Those new to addiction treatment often shy away from group therapy. It is normal for men and women to feel different from the other members of the group or to be uncomfortable with sharing their story. Many of our new patients wonder how talking about their problems with other people is going to improve their lives.
What does group therapy in addiction treatment look like?
After completing the initial phases of treatment at Kolmac, patients enter continuing care. During this phase, which varies in length depending on need, patients attend two-hour group therapy sessions once a week. Each group is led by two licensed or certified clinicians. Most of our patients never have to drive more than 20 minutes to attend a session, due to our conveniently located centers.
Why is group therapy important?
As humans, we need other people. It is part of our biological makeup. Once we isolate ourselves, refusing to allow others to see our needs and emotions, negative coping mechanisms arise. For this reason, group therapy is especially helpful. Below are further evidence-based benefits of group therapy.
- Groups provide the necessary structure and peer support to continue to abstain from addictive substances after rehabilitation.
- Groups normalize addiction disorders for those struggling with them, allowing them to feel less alone in their struggle for sobriety.
- Attendees can witness the recoveries of others, inspiring them and giving them hope.
- Members can learn healthy coping strategies from one another, learning how to live well in the “real world.”
- Group leaders can educate members about the neurobiological, social and psychological natures of addiction, enabling them to understand their disease better.
- Groups instill a deep sense of unity, belonging and family amongst their members.
More about our group therapy settings
Group therapy at Kolmac is led by licensed or certified clinicians. To be an effective facilitator of group therapy, the leader must have an extensive amount of specialized knowledge and skills around addiction treatment.
Leaders need to be experts in group process, constantly managing the stages of development of group dynamics. Group therapy clinicians also need to be highly educated in the pathology of addiction and how it is best treated. Counseling in the group setting must be purposeful. Our patients pursuing addiction treatment benefit from the direction of a high-level professional during group therapy.
If you would like to learn more about group therapy in addiction treatment, contact us today at (888) 331-5251.