GROUP THERAPY
Group therapy is viewed as an integral and valuable part of the treatment regimen for many
patients with a substance use disorder. Many different types of therapies have been used in a group format with this population, including CBT, IPT, and behavioral marital, modified psychodynamic, interactive, rational emotive, Gestalt, and psychodrama therapies. Group therapies permit efficient use of therapist time. In addition, aspects of group therapy may make this modality more effective than individual treatment for individuals with a substance use disorder. For example, given the social stigma attached to having lost control of substance use, the presence of other group members who acknowledge having a similar problem can provide comfort. In addition, other group members who are further along in their recovery can act as models, illustrating that attempts to stop substance use are not futile. These more experienced group members can offer a wide variety of coping strategies that go beyond the repertoire known even by the most skilled individual therapist. Furthermore, group members frequently can act as "buddies" who offer continued support outside of group sessions in a way that most professional therapists do not.
Finally, the public nature of group therapy provides a powerful incentive to individuals to
avoid relapse. The ability to publicly declare the number of days sober coupled with the fear of
having to publicly admit to relapse is a strong force that helps group members fight a disorder
that is characterized by a breakdown of internalized control mechanisms. Individuals with substance use disorders have been characterized as having poorly functioning internal self-control mechanisms, and the group process can provide a robust source of external control.
Moreover, because the group is composed of individuals recovering from substance use disorders, members may be better at detecting each other's concealed substance use or early relapse signals than would an individual therapist who may not have personal experience with a substance use disorder.
Although clinical trials of group therapy for substance use disorders are comparatively rare, the available data suggest that the efficacy of group treatment is comparable with that of individual therapies. No compelling empirical evidence is available to document the advantages or disadvantages of choosing group or individual treatment for substance use disorders. Because many patients have experience with group or individual therapy, patient preferences should be considered when choosing between the two types of treatment delivery or when developing a combined treatment program.
Group therapy is one of the most widespread and standard forms of treatment provided by Los Angeles County and Orange County intensive outpatient and residential addiction treatment programs. Group support and interpersonal behavior is a critical factor contributing to adopting a clean and sober life in Los Angeles County and Orange County.
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