Group Therapy and Counseling
Addiction therapy programs are fundamentally comprised of separate individual and group therapy sessions because they meet different needs. Participating in a group counseling program may seem intimidating, but this format has been shown to be an effective tool. To learn more about our group therapy program in Malibu, call Seasons in Malibu at 424.235.2009.
What Is a Group Counseling Program?
Group counseling or group therapy is a type of therapy that involves several clients working with one or more therapists at the same time. Sessions typically involve up to 12 participants but may be larger or smaller. The practice is widely used in mental health centers, community centers, hospitals, and addiction treatment centers.
In an addiction treatment program, group therapy is part of a comprehensive plan that includes one-on-one therapy and other therapeutic techniques. Groups often focus on a specific clinical method, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy or skills development.
Group therapy is a form of addiction support group, but instead of being run by peers, it is overseen by a mental health professional.
In addition to substance use disorder, a group counseling program can be used to treat a variety of conditions that often accompany substance use issues, including:
- Anxiety
- Anger management
- Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder
- Chronic pain
- Depression
- Eating disorders
- Grief
- Panic disorder
- Post-traumatic stress disorder
Depending on the group’s needs, the therapist may integrate different types of activities, such as gratitude or sharing exercises, to help facilitate communication.
4 Major Benefits of Our Group Therapy Program in Malibu
There are many potential benefits to participating in an addiction support group. In addition to the immediate advantages, experience with the group environment builds a foundation for participating in 12-Step and other peer-led support groups after completing our treatment program:
1. Support and Encouragement
Involvement in a group therapy program provides an opportunity to share insights and challenges with peers who understand what you’re going through. The setting promotes non-judgmental listening and responding.
2. Mentoring
Accepting help and helping others are cornerstones of addiction recovery. Group members act as role models for each other as they share their successes and concerns. As more experienced participants progress in their program, they can provide support to others.
3. Improved Individual Therapy Experience
Watching a client’s reactions in a group setting can provide a therapist with information they may not get during one-on-one sessions. They can use this insight to make individual sessions more effective and provide valuable feedback to their clients.
4. Improved Social Skills
Interacting with others in a guided therapeutic environment gives members a chance to practice the social skills and communication skills they are learning in other therapies. Participants can use the information they gain in group therapy to help rebuild relationships with friends and family members.
What to Expect from a Group Counseling Program
Group therapy sessions during addiction treatment are held at regular times each day. In some cases, you might be expected to attend more than one group session in a day. Mental health professionals experienced with group therapy and addiction medicine will oversee the group and keep all members accountable to the group’s agreed-upon format.
It is not necessary to agree with or even like all of the group members to learn from them. In fact, learning how to communicate with a variety of people is one of the benefits of participation.
Seasons in Malibu Offers a Group Therapy Program in Malibu
If you or someone you love is in need of substance use disorder treatment, expect group therapy to be part of the treatment program. For more information about our substance use and mental health disorder services, call Seasons in Malibu today at 424.235.2009.
