The Role of Group Therapy in Chemical Dependency Treatment
The nature of human beings is social, which makes group therapy in chemical dependency treatment a powerful therapeutic tool. Group therapy usually focuses on psycho-education, skills development, cognitive-behavior, support, and interpersonal process psychotherapy. The knowledge and behavioral modifications learned through these groups therapies is very effective in regards to the success rate of staying sober after the addict leaves the substance abuse rehab facility. Group therapy focuses on several things such as peer support, information and feedback from peers, social skills training, a reduction in the addict’s feelings of isolation thus giving the recovering addict the hope, support and encouragement necessary to break free from substance abuse.
April 1st, 2008 at 2:35 pm
Irving Yalom, a seminal theorist in group therapy believed that one of the most powerful functions of the group is to help each member see the effect that they have on other people. Alcoholics and other addicts tend to have difficulty with interpersonal relationships. A well functioning group can act as a mirror in which members can see their own behavior and attitudes through the eyes of the group. The group members have an opportunity to decide if they like the effect they have on others, and if not they can choose to change it. Group therapy complements 12 Step meetings by allowing members to process their feelings and offer feedback to one another.
April 19th, 2008 at 11:01 am
Sandy
Where, on the internet, can I get material for groups; such as hanouts and group excercises for Addiction and Recovery Group Therapy? I am trying to facilitate a group and need some guidance.
Thanks,
Denise