People have different needs when they seek help. For some people, one-on-one therapy is all they can respond to, especially in the beginning. Over time, they may feel more confident opening up and be ready for a group therapy program. Some people feel the group setting is more beneficial right from the start as it feels less personal to them. Each person is different, and that is why there is an equal need for both types of therapy. There are many benefits to group therapy.
Benefits of Group Therapy: Greater Support
A larger support system is one of the biggest benefits of group therapy. Being among people who share the same issues as you can give you the feeling that you are not alone. You can feel more comfortable around people who truly understand the path you have traveled, and they can help you get through the rocky road to recovery by sharing how they deal with various situations.
Helping Others
When you first join a group, you may feel like you don’t have anything to offer. Over time, however, there will be others who come across a situation you have successfully navigated. One of the benefits of group therapy is that everyone is at a different point on the journey. You will be able to help others as you have been helped. This will give you a greater sense of self-confidence and purpose.
Learning From Others
While you think you have tried everything, others may be able to see the same situation from a different perspective that helps you find solutions. You also get a chance to see how others perceive you. You will have the opportunity to view yourself through their mirror of you. The more perspectives and experience you can utilize about a situation, the better the chances of a positive outcome you have.
Less Expensive
One-on-one counseling can be expensive. One of the benefits of group therapy is that it is often much less expensive. This helps if you have an insurance that doesn’t cover much or if you have to pay out-of-pocket for the service. While it may not seem that you should have to consider cost when you need something as important as counseling, the reality is that cost is often a huge deciding factor.
Promotes Social Skills
People with both addiction problems and mental health issues have spent a lot of time on the fringes of society. It is highly likely that you never learned how to interact in a positive manner socially. As you continue on your healing journey, you will find many of those people you normally associate with, especially those who are not supportive or positive, will move aside, and you will want to replace them with new, positive friends who better reflect your new path. Being in the group setting will help you to start forming friendships and learning more positive ways to interact with individuals in society, Sometimes friendships formed in a support group or group counseling will last you the rest of your life. There is a kind of bonding that occurs when people go through major changes together.
Benefits of Group Therapy at Five Palms
Here at Five Palms, we understand the benefits of group therapy as well as those of individual counseling. Contact us if you or a loved one is in need of help, and we will work to find the best combination for your individual needs. Addiction and mental health issues don’t have to be the end of the road. Contacting us can help you decide which road to continue on to make your future journey less devastating. 1.844.675.1022
