Group therapy has many benefits, including the support of peers and a safe and inclusive space in which to share feelings. There is still a bit of a stigma surrounding therapy in our society, so being able to do so with others who are sharing similar experiences reinforces that patients are not alone on their journey. Group therapy can be one of a number of therapeutic modalities that a patient takes part in as part of a structured treatment program for a mental health issue or substance use disorder.
Call the treatment team at Zelus Recovery at 208.518.0797 to learn more about treatment programs for both adults and adolescents.
What Is Group Therapy?
Group therapy is a regular therapy session that a patient attends and is led by a therapist or group of therapists. The size of the groups varies depending on the program but could be anywhere from 5 to 15 people. The group is chosen based on the similar challenges the patient may be facing regarding mental health or substance misuse.
There are five general group therapy models:
- Psychoeducational group counseling
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Interpersonal process model
- Skill development groups
- Peer support groups
Each therapy session can vary in size and subject. Sessions can focus on current issues faced by patients or skills to better deal with their issues. Receiving therapy among peers who share a similar experience is a unique therapeutic opportunity.
Benefits of Group Therapy
There are many benefits of group therapy. Benefits include:
Inclusive atmosphere
Addiction and mental health issues can be very isolating. Having a group that understands what you are going through and can help you work through your challenges is a unique opportunity patients are able to take advantage of.
Diversity
Each person in the group will bring their own personal background, personality, perspective, and experience to the table. Patients will learn from these different points of view through the shared experience of addiction or mental health challenges.
Being held accountable
Each member of the group wants to see each other succeed, as does the therapist leading the group. When a patient falls, the group can be there to support them, and when they succeed, they are there to celebrate with them.
Socialization
As they enter a treatment program, most patients are coming from an isolating experience. A healthy social atmosphere where each person can hone or relearn social skills will serve them well as they return to the routines of everyday life.
Being open with feelings
Many patients have gotten used to trying to hide their mental health issues or substance misuse. So, being open about what you are feeling or the challenges you may be facing does not necessarily come easy. Group therapy is a safe space where each person is encouraged to be seen and heard.
It’s also important to note that benefits can vary from person to person, as each patient may take something different from each session.
Call Zelus Recovery Today
One of the greatest benefits of group therapy is the peer-to-peer interaction that takes place among patients. Knowing that you are not alone in your challenges can be extremely comforting as you go through the treatment process for a mental health or substance use disorder.
Group therapy may be one of many therapies a patient takes part in at Zelus Recovery. The treatment campus in Idaho provides an ideal setting for both adolescents and adults to get the help they need. Call the Zelus Recovery team today at 208.518.0797 or connect with us by completing the online form to learn more about your therapy options.
