Wherever and whenever we can, we like to have our IOP patients participate in groups. We feel this is a great way to promote one addiction sufferer being of service to another addiction sufferer.
In a group setting, patients get several benefits. First, they learn that they are not alone. They also get to see the progress of other people, which often serves as inspiration for them to keep fighting the good fight.
Second, patients get an opportunity to develop relationships with people whom they have something important in common with. It's normal for IOP peers to serve as support resources for each other outside of the treatment facility.
Finally, patients get a chance to learn about the importance of communicating their thoughts and feelings. We promote an accepting environment where peers are non-judgmental. That opens the door to better communication between patients and teaches them that what they think and feel matters.
Group therapy is an approach shown to be highly effective in the treatment of substance use disorders. For many people, group therapy is a powerful part of addiction recovery. Connecting with peers going through similar challenges helps with the isolation and shame that often accompanies addiction and reminds you that you’re not alone in your struggles.
At Studio 64 Recovery, We use group therapy methods as part of our program to build skills in coping with stressful situations, dealing with anxiety and stress, improving mental health, and increasing feelings of self-worth and life satisfaction. The best way to support our clients during their recovery is to be there for them when they need us most.
Different Types of Group Therapy
Psychoeducational Groups
This is where you’ll learn about addiction and mental health issues. Topics may center around subjects like the disease of addiction, medications, medical and mental health conditions, trauma, relapse prevention, and components of a healthy lifestyle. You’ll be encouraged to relate the substance abuse group therapy topics to your own challenges.
Interpersonal Process Groups
These groups revolve around members’ issues, problem-solving, and group dynamics. You’ll discuss an issue and hear reactions and potential solutions from peers. Interpersonal process groups usually serve as a microcosm of your relationships outside treatment. You may relate to group members in similar ways as you do with family and loved ones, so it is a way to work through some of these relationship dynamics and learn better ways to communicate.
Skills Development Groups
This type of group teaches relapse-prevention tools as well as practical skills for everyday life. For example, you may learn things like how to refuse drugs, better ways to communicate, managing anger, relaxation techniques, and how to cope with urges and triggers. You’ll re-learn old skills that may have been shadowed by addiction and acquire new ones.
Cognitive–behavioral/Problem-solving Groups
These groups draw on different techniques to help members recognize thinking and relational patterns that can contribute to self-destructive behaviors. You’ll develop problem-solving skills, set goals, and learn to identify behaviors and emotions that can fuel substance abuse.
Support Groups
These groups center around day-to-day life and maintaining sobriety in the face of challenges. They can provide important peer support and a sense of accountability, especially in early recovery.
The Benefits of Group Therapy
Developing a Support System
By connecting with like-minded people who have had similar experiences and can empathize with your difficulties, you can form a healthy support system that will help you cope with your problems and contribute positively to your life. Our sessions allow clients to learn how to relate to others healthily, which will allow them to improve the quality of their relationships with family and friends. The group members become more accountable for their actions and feel responsible for the behavior of others.
Learning Strategies for Change
If you are unsuccessful in the group, you can apply what you have learned to real-life situations and make better decisions about resolving difficulties. New strategies will help you feel better about yourself and your ability to accomplish your goals. Studio 64 recovery ensures that every client receives at least 12 hours of group therapy per week. This vital component of therapy helps clients maximize their benefits from the therapy session and get closer to their goals.
Improving Self-esteem and Self-confidence
You will develop a stronger sense of self-esteem and confidence by realizing how much you can accomplish. It is essential for the future success of your life and recovery from addiction or other problems. We encourage clients to learn to sleep better, eat healthier, exercise and have an active social life. It will help them feel more hopeful about the future and continue their recovery.
Relieves Stress and Anxiety
Deciding how to cope with the stress of your daily life and the anxiety you feel about the changes you might need to make will help improve your overall quality of life.
Group therapy effectively decreases anxiety disorder symptoms when used alongside traditional cognitive and behavioral psychotherapy. Being part of a group focused on specific goals and with a sense of responsibility for others will help you improve your decision-making skills, thereby leading to better outcomes in your life while also fostering a culture of cohesiveness, support, and integration.
At Studio 64 Recovery, we provide a safe place to be vulnerable. In Group Therapy sessions you’ll see yourself in others who are struggling with similar issues, and vice versa. This type of therapy helps you to work through problems and learn interpersonal skills and better ways of communicating. Group therapy is meant to complement individual therapy and other components of addiction treatment.
Substance abuse Group Therapy is very common and there are several different types of groups and settings. When coming to Studio 64 Recovery, we will help you develop a comprehensive treatment plan that will include multiple different types of therapy to help you develop healthy coping skills, communication skills, and social skills by offering peer support alongside your individualized therapies.
We look forward to connecting with you to help you begin the journey towards a successful and lasting recovery!
