a woman being comforted in group therapy by her peers during a group counseling sessionVarious counseling techniques can help individuals recover from addiction. One of the most common types of counseling used for treating addiction is group therapy. In group counseling, individuals can share experiences and learn from each other. Discover more about the benefits of groups as well as how they work.

Why Group Counseling Is Beneficial for Recovery

There are several advantages to taking part in New Bridge Foundation®’s group counseling sessions. Some of these are:

  • For many, addiction can be extremely isolating. Individuals may feel that no one else understands what they are going through and that they are alone in their recovery journey. Group counseling helps combat these feelings. Hearing from other people who have had similar experiences, allows clients to feel less isolated. The feeling of empowerment that results from participating in a group counseling session can help clients to focus more successfully on their own road to recovery.
  • One of the critical aspects of genuine recovery is a strong support network. In group counseling at New Bridge Foundation®, clients both receive and give support. The relationships that develop as a result enable them to develop a sober support network that can last long after treatment. 
  • Group therapy enables participants to learn from each other. In groups at New Bridge Foundation®, clients are taught and share a variety of different coping techniques as they embark on self-discovery. Whether it is how to avoid triggers, how to handle a relapse, or how to deal and cope with stress, clients learn and develop a variety of coping strategies. 
  • Group therapy encourages socialization and, as a result, helps clients who have long been isolated due to their substance use improve their ability to communicate effectively and improve their social skills. Not only does group counseling allow individuals to become more comfortable in social settings it also enhances communication, an essential skill individuals need as they learn to manage the triggers and stressors of everyday life and improve their personal relationships.  

For these reasons and more, group therapy is one of the pillars of our recovery program.

What You Can Expect From Group Therapy

While all groups operate a little differently, there are a few similarities in any group setting. First, a counselor or therapist leads the group. Generally, they ask questions and help moderate without necessarily giving advice or input. This individual keeps the group moving and helps people open up. Each group session lasts from one hour to two. The best way that clients are able to learn is when others tell their stories.

Hearing how someone else dealt with a similar situation can give others ideas, or at the very least, a springboard from which to create solutions to one’s own problems. Whatever is shared in a group stays in the group as confidentiality provides clients a secure environment in which they can thrive.

Group Counseling at New Bridge Foundation®

At New Bridge Foundation®, group counseling sessions target a range of topics about addictions and recovery. Additionally, our clients benefit from conversations that center around dual diagnosis issues as well as other specialized services.

Regardless of which addiction treatment program an individual commits to, he or she will experience the benefits of group counseling. The following program options are available to individuals at New Bridge Foundation®:

In addition to group counseling, we also offer individual counseling, a specialized program for active-duty military members and veterans (Operation Success), and family counseling.

Learn More About Our Group Therapy Programs at New Bridge Foundation® Today

One of the most challenging aspects of substance use problems is the fact that they are so iso-lating. Group counseling allows clients to learn to communicate and offers a chance to build a sober, support network that will help them avoid relapse as they take their lives back from drugs and alcohol. When you’re ready to discuss your addiction treatment options, contact New Bridge Foundation® at 866.772.8491.