Group Therapy at Good Future Rehab Center provides the opportunity for patients to interact with other residents in a supportive environment. Building supportive relationships with peers is extremely helpful in the development of a string recovery base. Group therapy provides confrontation of negative behaviors in a safe confidential environment. Group therapy will include educational and inter-personal process. Group therapy will be provided on a daily basis.

Group therapy: A room filled with mirrors

It’s easier to see a reflection of yourself through someone else than to stare directly into your own mirror.

Group therapy is such an essential part of recovery. It’s through hearing someone’s life that you can see your own. Research from the American Psychological Association shows it exceeds standards for effectiveness for common problems such as, major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, social phobia, obsessive-compulsive disorder, bulimia nervosa, binge-eating disorder, substance use disorder, schizophrenia, borderline personality disorder and general personality disorder. Also recovery from substance abuse, it covers a multitude of problems, and amongst the group, you can find a solution.

Among the research is the finding that the most effective groups have a common identity and a sense of shared purpose. Finding a common thread you will eventually find ties that bring you all together. When it comes to a group format, new research shows two group leaders are better than one. Co-led group members experience greater benefits, that second set of eyes and ears makes a big difference.

Research is also shedding light on how, exactly, groups help people heal. The most important consideration is the ability to interact with peers. In cases of abuse or trauma, peer interactions include social support and can dispel feelings of alienation and isolation which also aids in recovery from drugs and alcohol.

Below are the key factors found in the group dynamic, and with your willingness, the results are:

The instillation of hope: The other group members are all at different stages of the recovery process. Seeing people others coping and recovering from substance abuse gives hope to those at the beginning of the process.

Universality: Being part of a group of people who have the same experiences helps you see that what we all face is universal and that you are not alone.

Imparting information: We are able to help each other by sharing information.

Altruism: You are open and able to share your strengths and help other group members. This ultimately boosts self-esteem and confidence. These are important tools in alcohol and drug addiction recovery.

The corrective recapitulation of the primary family group: The therapy group is much like a family in many ways. Within the group setting you are able to explore how childhood experiences contributed who you are, your personality and behaviors, and you can also learn to avoid behaviors that are destructive and may lead to relapse.

Development of socialization techniques: The group setting is a safe and supportive place to practice your new behaviors, it allows for you to experiment without the fear of failure.

Imitative behavior: You can emulate the behavior of group members and your therapist. You can learn to modify your response to stressors.
Interpersonal learning: Through interaction and receiving feedback from the group and the therapist, you will gain a greater understanding of yourself. The group contributes to your overall development.

Group cohesiveness: Because the group is united in achieving their common goal, you will gain a sense of belonging and acceptance. You will learn to give support to group members and accept support in return.

Catharsis: Sharing feelings and experiences with a group of people can aid your recovery and relieve pain, guilt, and stress helping to minimize a potential relapse back to drug and alcohol abuse.

Existential factors: Groups offer support and guidance, helping you to realize that you are responsible for your own life, action and choices. This gives your life a new meaning.

All of these benefits are a huge part of a successful recovery. You can find these benefits in a group of people in any venue, such as Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, Celebrate Recovery, and many more on the same mission. These groups are committed to change, you can also benefit by supporting someone that is reluctant and doesn’t want to change. After we stop fighting that which is inevitable to we can find our new life. Willingness to go to any length to get sober starting with the man in the mirror can mean lifelong success.