Forming and being part of groups is a natural desire that satisfies our need to belong. From groups, we gain insight and understanding about ourselves and others. Groups help us define our identities and achieve goals while allowing us to receive and offer peer support. All of these social benefits of groups also apply to addiction group therapy. Group therapy is a form of structured psychotherapy led by a trained professional. Members of group therapy sessions share similar needs and challenges. At Next Wind Recovery, group therapy is a central component of our addiction treatment programs. To learn more, contact us at 201.331.6569 or reach out using our secure online form.
What Happens in Mindfulness-Based Therapy Groups?
Group therapy options at Next Wind Recovery utilize evidence-based treatment options in a caring and supportive environment. Group therapy is an integral part of our substance abuse and mental health treatment programs. Sessions are led by highly trained therapists who guide groups through topics related to your treatment. In group therapy, clients can:
- Receive education about addiction and mental health
- Learn to improve communication and social skills
- Build interpersonal relationships
- Learn to regulate emotions and behaviors
- Learn to identify and manage triggers
- Develop new coping skills and life skills
Group therapy can range in size from two people, as with couples or family therapy, to larger groups, as with 12-step programs. We have found group therapy to be an essential component of their overall individualized treatment plan, no matter which treatment program clients are in. Group therapy is especially effective for the treatment of many mental health concerns, including:
- Anxiety disorders
- Major depressive disorder
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Substance use disorders
- Bipolar disorder
What Are the Benefits of Mindful Group Therapy?
Research shows that groups in which members share a common sense of identity and purpose provide effective treatment. Next Wind Recovery offers an array of group therapy programs to meet the many needs of our clients.
Group therapy was built on the core belief that people feel better when recognizing that they are not alone in their struggles. One of the crucial elements that make group therapy so effective is peer interactions. Groups help individuals build their social network, provide social support, and reduce stigma and feelings of alienation and isolation. The following are some other benefits of group therapy:
- Allows therapists to observe social skills directly and provide feedback
- Members serve as role models for others in the group
- Provides a safe environment to practice newly learned skills
- Group members learn to be accountable for themselves and to others
- Members make connections that can lead to long-term relationships
- Seeing peers improve compels other group members to do the same
- Members gain insight from hearing about the experiences of others
Mindful group therapy teaches members to be present at the moment without judgment. Mindfulness group therapy is not concerned with relaxation, but that can be a benefit of different techniques. Because group therapy members are united in attaining a common goal, group members develop a sense of fellowship and belonging. Sharing thoughts, feelings, and experiences in a safe setting with like-minded peers helps lessen emotional pain, guilt, and stress.
Contact Next Wind Recovery for Addiction Group Therapy
Drug and alcohol addiction and co-occurring mental health disorders impact all areas of a person’s life. Effective treatment involves the utilization of multiple treatment modalities, including group therapy. Group therapy allows people to recognize that they are not alone in their struggles and fosters peer relationships. Group therapy does not replace individual therapy, which is also a critical part of successful treatment.
To learn more about the benefits of group therapy for addiction and mental health treatment, reach out to the team at Next Wind Recovery. Use our secure online form or call us at 201.331.6569.