Addiction therapy is a very personal process, but no one goes through it alone. The truth is many people will be a part of the process when you’re in IOP recovery in Dallas, even others who are going through recovery as well.
The idea of joining group therapy may seem uncomfortable or even unnecessary at first. Patients often question the need to open up to a group of people they don’t know. However, those concerns quickly fade whenever a person experiences the benefits of talking to similarly situated people in a group setting.
The Benefits of Group Therapy During IOP Recovery in Dallas
Many people start IOP in Dallas thinking that it’s a journey they have to do on their own, but realize nothing could be farther from the truth. The patient must truly want to stop using alcohol or drugs for themselves in order to recover, however, addiction recovery is a group effort.
When you get out of your comfort zone and get into group therapy there are a number of truly amazing benefits that aid long-term sobriety.
Understanding
Addiction is a lonely place, but group therapy is the exact opposite. Being a part of group therapy means you have a way to connect with other people who understand what you are going through better than anyone else. They aren’t going to judge you, which is often a huge benefit during something as emotionally and psychologically challenging as addiction recovery. Instead, you’ll get true sympathy that helps you heal.
Learning
Mistakes are going to be made in life, but what’s most important is what you learn from them. Group therapy is a safe space where people are encouraged to share what has and hasn’t worked. In group therapy when people own up to their mistakes it’s an opportunity for everyone to learn and improve. Those who are further along in recovery can also give you an idea of what to expect on the path ahead.
Motivation
Group therapy is a group effort. When you open up, others become invested in your success. You’re also all working toward similar personal goals, so you want to see each other succeed. If your resolve starts to waiver or you feel overwhelmed, group members are there to provide motivation and support. They’ll remind you of what you’re working towards and how far you’ve come. Hearing how others have overcome their struggles is another powerful motivator. Simply knowing you have the support of your peers is enough to provide motivation when it’s needed most.
Accountability
The people in group therapy know your goals, which means they can help hold you accountable so that you have a better chance of reaching them. You’re less likely to cut corners or slack off when you know the group is hoping to see you make progress.
Perspective
Opening up in group therapy can really help put things in perspective. You may find that after talking things through with the group you have a better idea of what you want post-recovery or how to handle a certain problem. Or you could learn new ways to speak up for yourself and say “no” when it’s needed. Group therapy can also give you new perspectives on life in general from getting to hear other people’s points of view.
Socialization
Addiction has a way of breaking down a person’s social bonds. It can even have a negative impact on social skills. Group therapy is a safe setting where the patient can regain social skills and begin socializing with others. During group therapy sessions you have an opportunity to voice your opinions, share ideas and strike up conversations. All of these things help a person gain social confidence that will be needed after addiction therapy while you are deciding who should be in your inner circle.
Belonging
Having a sense of belonging is important for anyone, but it’s vital to someone in an Intensive Outpatient Program in Dallas, TX. Finding your new “tribe” can help reduce the chance of falling back in with your previous acquaintances that could be a negative influence or trigger. Belonging to a group has also been shown to give people a heightened sense of purpose and helps form a positive social identity that makes recovery easier.
Support
The biggest benefit of group therapy is knowing you have a support system. Addiction can cause a person to push away helpful friends and family while attracting the wrong kinds of acquaintances that offer no support in recovery. The members of group therapy provide amazing support because they know how difficult recovery can be, and they are looking for support as well. The give and take of a strong support system is beneficial all around for someone in recovery.
Group therapy is an important part of Lighthouse Recovery’s holistic Intensive Outpatient Program in Dallas, TX. Unlike other treatment centers that assign up to 30 people to a single group, we limit our group to just eight people. This ensures that everyone in the group gets the time and attention they need and are able to create meaningful relationships with the other group members. Our team works to create safe spaces where all group members feel comfortable sharing their experiences and making connections for a brighter future.
