Group therapy is a type of psychotherapy that involves two or more individuals who work with one or a group of counselors or therapists. This form of therapy is a popular setting for different support groups, where participating group members can share and learn from the experiences of others and also give advice. This method, often used with victims of traumatic experiences and substance-abuse problems, may be much more effective than individualized or one-on-one therapy for coping with drug addiction.
Family Group Therapy
The family is the basic and core social unit of society. Those who have addictions to drugs need to feel safe and must be surrounded by people they trust the most. Hence, the family is the perfect setting for group therapy. For drug-abuse treatment, family therapy has two main goals. The first is to develop a plan in which the family's resources and strengths are harnessed to help devise and implement ways to stop substance abuse. Second, the therapy helps the family reorganize and counteract the impact of the patient's dependency on drugs, as well as learn to manage the drugs effects on the family.
Therapists help families become aware of their needs and guide them in finding genuine healing. Familial roles are reinforced to reorganize family structure, to define leadership, to help promote better communication, and to guide each member in making intrapersonal, interpersonal, and environmental adjustments to put a stop in using drugs or alcohol. Family therapy is effective because it sets up a neutral setting where family members can talk freely and solve problems.
Peer Group Therapy
Expressive groups are the most common type of peer group therapy used in treating drug addiction. This form of group therapy involves a wide range of activities that allow its members to express their thoughts and feelings, both conscious and unconscious, that cannot be communicated through words alone.
This method promotes social interaction through creative activities such as art and play therapy. Aside from art, expressive therapy may also use drama, music, poetry, games and dance.
Addicts may benefit from group therapy by learning they are not alone and by finding a strong support group of people to turn to to overcome their addictions.
Culturally Specific Group Therapy
Grouping members who share similar cultures and religions can be a powerful method of group therapy. Culturally specific practices can help members communally participate in activities that eventually promote healing. By tapping into their shared cultural rituals, beliefs and healing practices, this can help instigate wellness among the members. For example, Alcoholics Anonymous draws upon ideas of looking to God for strength in overcoming addiction, and some Alcoholics Anonymous groups are organized as parts of churches or other social organizations.
