Group Therapy
Group therapy dates back to 1905 when doctor Joseph Hersey Pratt of Boston began working with a group of tuberculosis patients. He noticed that by talking to each other about their common problems, the patient’s emotional states were improved.
Today, group therapy is a staple method of providing therapy for clients. At South Coast Behavioral Health, we provide a safe space for clients to explore emotions and develop communication skills. For this reason, our group therapy services can help you develop a wide range of skills that will serve you long after each session has ended.
What Is Group Therapy?
Group therapy is a form of therapy in which one or more therapists treat a small group of clients together as a group. The idea behind it is other participants can provide each other with moral support and encouragement. It’s often used in conjunction with individual therapy and medication. Throughout treatment for addiction, group sessions can be a powerful tool for addressing psychological issues on an individual and collective level.
By allowing individuals to interact with others who are dealing with similar issues, feelings of stigma and isolation are reduced. Group therapy also allows individuals to see how others handle similar problems, which can give them new insights into their difficulties.
Group therapy sessions are typically guided by a professional therapist, who can ensure that the discussion remains safe and constructive for everyone involved. Sessions are a bit longer than the ones in individual therapy – typically around 45 to 90 minutes. Groups usually meet once or twice a week.
Types of Group Therapy
While group therapy is not limited to discussions surrounding drug and alcohol addiction, it can offer a space for those in recovery to connect with others during the recovery journey. While in treatment for substance abuse, we provide a wide range of group therapy services to help individuals find new ways of coping with problems and provide an opportunity for learning how to manage triggers in healthy ways.
The different group therapy types have benefits for people receiving addiction treatment because many aspects of addiction can cause mistrust, in addition to self-isolation being a common precursor to substance abuse. As clients participate in groups, they can work on developing better communication skills and, in turn, healthier relationships.
There are a variety of approaches to group therapy that incorporate unique techniques to help clients process their emotions and practice healthy forms of communication. Each of our group therapies focuses on different themes to address a variety of issues that can arise during substance abuse and recovery settings.
- Gender-Specific Groups
- Trauma-Informed Groups
- Psychoeducational Groups
- Skills-Building Groups
- Relapse Prevention Groups
- Experiential Groups
Different Kinds of Group Therapy
We offer several specialized group therapy services that focus on gender-specific topics, trauma-informed discussions, processing grief and loss, techniques for anger management, relaxation exercises, spirituality, relapse prevention planning, and education on addiction and mental health.
Throughout our group therapy services, clients learn to address emotional, physical, and spiritual issues and beliefs while building connections with their peers. In doing so, our goal is to empower our clients to live a life free from addiction. With the right support and treatment, we believe recovery is possible for everyone.
Gender-Specific Groups
Gender-specific groups are separated by gender to address issues unique to each gender and to promote open, honest discussions without the risk of fear or judgment. For example, women's groups might discuss societal pressures, body image, or abuse, while men's groups might focus on emotional expression, societal expectations, or masculinity. These groups provide a space where clients feel more comfortable discussing sensitive topics.
Trauma-Informed Groups
Trauma-informed groups provide a safe space for individuals to share their experiences, learn from each other, and develop coping strategies. These groups can help create a sense of community and belonging as clients work together to build resilience and healing. By creating a safe and supportive space, trauma-informed groups can provide the tools needed to recover. With the right support, individuals can gain insight into their struggles and become empowered on their path toward healing.
Psychoeducational Groups
Psychoeducational groups can provide a beneficial platform for people to learn more about substance use disorders and mental health. Our education-based groups often consist of educational lectures, skill-building exercises, and peer-led discussions. As clients learn about the science of addiction, they gain insight into their struggles and can find hope that recovery is attainable.
Skills-Building Groups
Skills-building groups focus on teaching and developing practical skills that participants can use to manage their conditions. Skills-building groups often teach CBT techniques for managing symptoms like anxiety or negative self-talk. These groups can also incorporate DBT skills such as mindfulness, emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness.
Relapse Prevention Groups
Similar to recovery support groups, these groups specifically focus on strategies to prevent relapse in individuals recovering from addiction. They may cover topics like identifying triggers, managing cravings, and developing healthy coping mechanisms.
Experiential Groups
This type of group therapy uses expressive tools, such as art, music, drama, or movement, to help participants express and process their emotions. These therapies can be particularly beneficial for those who find it difficult to verbalize their feelings or experiences.
We believe in using evidence-based techniques to foster a safe and therapeutic environment for our clients. Our group sessions incorporate cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, mindfulness approaches, and more. The goal is to create an atmosphere for learning and healing that allows clients to leave feeling empowered and ready to take on their next challenge.
Remember that the specific methods and goals of group therapy can vary widely based on the group’s focus and the therapist’s approach. It’s important to find a group that fits your needs and feels comfortable for you.
What To Expect in Group Therapy
Group therapy typically consists of roughly 15 patients and one or more therapists. Groups will meet once or twice per week, usually on a consistent day and time.
While each group therapy session can be unique depending on the therapist and the participants involved, here are some general things you can expect:
Introductions and Setting Ground Rules
At the beginning of group therapy, participants often introduce themselves and discuss why they’re there. The therapist may also set ground rules to ensure a safe, respectful, and comfortable environment. This can include rules about maintaining confidentiality, respecting others when they speak, being nonjudgmental, and committing to regular attendance.
Structure and Format
Group therapy can vary widely in format. Some groups may be more structured, with the therapist leading discussions and activities. Other groups may be more open, with participants encouraged to bring up topics or issues they want to discuss. The frequency and duration of meetings also can vary, but weekly 90-minute sessions are quite common.
Sharing Experiences and Feelings
Most group therapy involves participants sharing their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. This can be an emotional process, but it can also be incredibly validating to realize that others are going through similar experiences.
Feedback and Support
In addition to sharing, group therapy often involves giving and receiving feedback and support. This can help participants see their issues from new perspectives and learn new ways to cope with their problems.
Learning Through Observation
Even when you’re not the one sharing or receiving feedback, there’s a lot to be learned in group therapy. By observing how others handle their issues, you can gain insights and ideas that may apply to your own life.
Tips for Listening and Communication in Group Settings
Our groups at South Coast strive to create a comfortable atmosphere where clients can feel seen, heard, and supported in their journey of self-discovery. To help our clients build interpersonal skills, we incorporate several tips for listening and communicating in group settings such as:
- Practice Active Listening — This involves not just hearing the words that another member is saying but also understanding and empathizing with the feelings behind those words.
- Be Respectful — Remember to wait your turn to speak and don't interrupt others when they are sharing. Everyone should have a chance to speak and be heard.
- Use "I" Statements — When sharing your feelings or giving feedback, use "I" statements rather than "you" statements to avoid sounding blaming or accusatory.
- Offer Support — Provide supportive comments and feedback as others talk in the group. You can validate the person sharing by letting them know that their feelings matter and you care about what they are saying.
- Be Honest, but Kind — It's important to be honest when sharing your feelings and giving feedback. However, it's equally important to deliver your thoughts in a kind and sensitive manner. Remember, the goal is to support and help each other, not to cause more pain.
- Stay Present and Engaged — Try to stay focused on what's happening in the group, even when you're not the one speaking. Being present and engaged shows respect for the other group members and allows you to get the most out of the therapy.
- Listen Without Judgement — It's important to listen with an open mind and heart. Try not to judge the other person or jump in with advice too quickly. Instead, focus on understanding the other person's perspective.
We understand that the therapeutic process can be challenging at times, so we strive to provide a safe and non-judgmental environment for clients to explore their feelings. Our counselors encourage a supportive atmosphere of collaboration and open discussion between clients and therapists to create an empowering experience. Similarly, we practice empathy in all our sessions so that each client has the opportunity to express themselves freely.
As clients practice these tips, they become active participants in our supportive group environment. In learning interpersonal communication skills, our clients allow space for everyone to be heard and benefit from the session.
Everyone’s experience in group therapy is unique, and it’s okay if it takes you a little time to feel comfortable. Just keep an open mind, be respectful, and remember that everyone else in the group is there for the same reason: to heal and grow.
What Are the Benefits of Group Therapy?
Group therapy offers a variety of benefits including:
Sense of Belonging
Group therapy provides a sense of community. As you listen to others share stories about similar struggles and experiences, you can feel less alone. This knowledge can also offer reassurance and comfort.
Learning Through Observation
Group therapy allows you to observe how others handle conflict, express emotions, or cope with stress. These observations can inform your behavior and coping mechanisms.
Improved Social Skills
Group therapy provides a chance to practice new behaviors in a safe and supportive environment, which can enhance your social skills and improve your interactions with people in and out of the group.
Normalization of Experiences
Sharing experiences and feelings that you might have thought were unique to you can help to normalize them, reducing feelings of isolation, shame, or being misunderstood.
Shared Experience and Support
Sharing experiences and emotions in a safe, supportive environment can provide relief and validation. Hearing how others cope with their issues can offer insight and potentially helpful strategies to solve your own issues.
Feedback and Perspective
In a group setting, you can receive diverse feedback and viewpoints from your peers. This can help you view your situation from different perspectives, challenge your beliefs, and adjust your unhealthy behaviors.
Enhanced Self-Awareness
By seeing how others respond to your behavior and being encouraged to reflect on this, you may enhance your self-awareness and understanding of how you interact with others.
Inspiration
Seeing others make progress in group therapy can be inspiring and provide a model for change in yourself. When you see a peer succeed, it can give you hope that the same success is possible for you.
Remember, while there are many benefits, group therapy may not be the best choice for everyone. The type of therapy that will be most beneficial for your healing process will depend on your particular needs, circumstances, and personal comfort.
Group Therapy at South Coast Behavioral Health
During treatment for substance abuse, South Coast incorporates a wide variety of therapeutic modalities so that our clients can gain the most benefit from our services. We emphasize a holistic approach to recovery, utilizing evidence-based interventions and innovative approaches tailored to the individual’s strengths and needs. Our comprehensive group counseling services incorporate evidence-based therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy. Both CBT and DBT have proven effective in treating depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues.
CBT Groups
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a form of psychological treatment that focuses on identifying and changing negative or destructive thought patterns that have a detrimental influence on behavior and emotions. It also addresses behaviors directly, often through exercises or homework assignments that build new skills or habits.
DBT Groups
Dialectical-behavioral therapy (DBT) on the other hand, is a type of cognitive-behavioral therapy that combines standard cognitive-behavioral techniques with mindfulness and acceptance strategies. It’s called “dialectical” because it involves finding a balance between accepting reality as it is and working towards a change, and the therapy itself often involves balancing opposites.
Substance Abuse Treatment at South Coast
Throughout each our of substance abuse treatment programs, we provide an environment of trust and support, which allows individuals to truly explore themselves and their emotions. This is because group therapy can be a great way to get out of your own head and connect with others who are on similar journeys. With the help of one of our highly trained clinicians, you or a loved one can find the help and support needed to reach your goals.
At South Coast Behavioral Health, we believe that all individuals have the right to quality medical care in a safe healing environment. Our compassionate team is dedicated to providing evidence-based therapy practices to help you or a loved one live a happier, healthier life. If you or a loved one are interested in group therapy, South Coast Behavioral Health is happy to help.
Residential Treatment in California
Residential treatment, also known as inpatient treatment, is our highest level of care. Here, you’ll receive round-the-clock medical attention and monitoring while living at one of our facilities full-time. Group therapy within this level of care would focus on education, support, and skill development.
Partial Hospitalization in California
This is a slightly less intensive level of care than residential treatment. Here, our clients can receive care five to seven days a week for several hours each day, returning to their homes in the evening. This way, they can recover without putting their daily lives completely on hold, receiving intense group sessions in skill development and personal growth.
Intensive Outpatient Treatment in California
Clients undergoing intensive outpatient treatment in Newport Beach can expect to meet three to five days a week of therapy, with each session lasting three hours. This level of care requires the least amount of attendance at a facility. Group therapy sessions here emphasize job readiness, life skills, and relapse management training. IOP offers participants the ability to continue their employment or academic obligations, receiving support and therapy as needed as they prepare to reenter society.
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Group Therapy in Orange County, CA
If you are struggling with a mental health or substance use disorder, group therapy may be an effective treatment option for you. It is important to note that group sessions require active participation in order for them to be successful. If you think group therapy might be right for you, please reach out to us today!
We provide group therapy for men within our medical detox and residential treatment centers in Irvine, CA.
We offer group therapy for women at our medical detox and residential treatment centers in Huntington Beach, CA.
We provide group therapy for men within our residential inpatient facility in Costa Mesa, CA.
We provide group therapy during our PHP and IOP programs in Newport Beach, CA.
Along with group therapy, our treatment centers in California offer a wide range of services and dedicated addiction specialists who will help you begin your journey. We believe in empowering real people to get real, lasting results in recovery.
