Addiction can be a very isolating disease. Although millions of people struggle with a substance use disorder each year, many addicts and recovering addicts feel alone. Fortunately, group therapy offers recovering addicts a safe space for you to connect with other individuals who share similar experiences as you. Understanding group therapy dynamics can sometimes be complicated, especially if you’ve never done group therapy before. Keep reading to learn more about group therapy and what you can expect.
At Outpatient Los Angeles, we provide leading outpatient treatment in Los Angeles to help as many patients as possible safely achieve long-lasting sobriety. We understand that no two recovery journeys are ever the same. That’s why we offer a range of outpatient addiction treatment options so you can receive the best care for your unique recovery needs.
Ready to break free of addiction once and for all? Contact us today!
5 Things to Better Understand Group Therapy Dynamics
Understanding group therapy dynamics can help make you feel more at ease before your first session. Keep reading to learn more about what you can expect during group therapy.
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A Therapist Can Help Guide the Conversation
The dynamics of group counseling sessions are typically led by a therapist who can help guide the conversation and offer support to members of the group. Also, a therapist can help encourage conversation while managing any conflict that may arise from differences between group members. Therefore, a therapist helps facilitate and support the group, ensuring the group dynamics in group therapy sessions promote a safe, supportive environment for all to share and participate in.
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Creating a Safe Space for All to Share
As previously stated, a group therapy session should feel like a safe space so everyone feels like they can share and participate in the conversation. Not only does a therapist help establish a non-judgmental space for all to feel safe to participate, but active listening and participation by all group members help further establish this judgment-free space for all.
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Encouraging Equal Participation
Active listening and equal participation are also highly encouraged during group therapy. While it’s inevitable that some members of the group will be more outgoing and talkative than other members, it’s important for all members to feel safe and encouraged to participate and share their experiences to contribute to the conversation.
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Implementing Techniques or Exercises to Support the Group
Sometimes, certain techniques or exercises may be incorporated into a group therapy session by the therapist to help further support the group. This can look like mindfulness practices such as breathwork or other exercises needed to support the group and encourage conversation.
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Seeking Support From Others Who Can Relate
Last, but not least, it’s important to understand that group therapy helps you relate and connect to other individuals who share similar experiences and struggles as you. Addiction can be a very isolating disease, and often it can feel like no one understands what you’re going through as you progress through the ups and downs of addiction recovery.
However, group therapy gives you a space where you can connect with peers and mentors who can encourage and keep you accountable as you progress further along on your road to recovery. This way you are not only benefiting from the group therapy session, but your participation can also help inspire and help other members feel less alone in their fight against addiction.
Ready to Lead a Healthier, Happier Life
Understanding group therapy dynamics can be complicated, especially if you’ve never done group therapy before. However, once you understand that group therapy is a safe space led by a therapist who encourages equal participation and a judgment-free environment, understanding group therapy dynamics can sound a lot less intimidating. If you or someone you know is struggling with drug addiction, it’s critical you seek professional support to take back control over your life.
At Outpatient Los Angeles, our caring team of addiction specialists is here to help you every step of the way on your road to recovery. You should never feel too ashamed or afraid when it comes to asking for help to lead a healthier, happier quality of life. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help your road to recovery.