A strong support system is one of the most critical components of a successful recovery from addiction. You cannot expect to go through recovery on your own — it takes more than sheer willpower to escape the grip of drugs or alcohol. You can find the support you need through individual therapy, family counseling, and a group therapy program.
At Northpoint Washington, we understand the importance of peer support as you go through addiction recovery. Our group therapy program is an integral component of your treatment so that you will know you are never alone. Reach out to us today at 888.450.2153 to learn more about how our group counseling program can help.
Top 5 Benefits of Group Counseling
Individual therapy and family counseling both have a place in addiction recovery. However, group counseling benefits go beyond these two therapies and can complement your addiction treatment plan.
1. Peer Support
Having the support of your treatment team, your family and friends can go a long way toward keeping you motivated as you recover. However, there is something to be said for the support of others going through recovery with you.
Peer support reinforces that you are not alone and that others know exactly how you feel and what you struggle with as you recover from addiction. There is a certain power to this type of support that you may not feel as strongly from those who are not in your shoes.
2. Judgment-Free Zone
One of the top benefits of group counseling is the safe space it provides for you to speak openly. You may feel more comfortable bringing up topics you would avoid during a family counseling session. People who have never struggled with addiction may have unconscious biases, making it more challenging for them to remain objective toward your difficulties in recovery.
Other group members may be experiencing the same challenges as you in recovery, so there is no fear of them judging you or looking down upon you for feeling the way you do.
3. Connection
Addiction often leads to isolation, especially if others in your life do not use drugs or alcohol with you. Lack of meaningful connections to others often makes you feel worse, intensifying symptoms of depression or anxiety and triggering you to self-medicate more.
Group counseling allows you to develop healthy connections with others once again. As you discover how you relate to one another, you may form bonds with your fellow group members that help you stay strong as you navigate recovery.
4. Accountability
If the only person you had to answer to were yourself, you would have a much lower chance of maintaining sobriety. Studies prove time and time again that having an accountability partner increases your success, regardless of your goals. Your peers in recovery are there to check in on your progress, keep you moving forward, and help you overcome obstacles.
Knowing that you will face your peers regularly for counseling sessions can help keep you on track since you will not want to let them down. You can serve as an inspiration for them and they for you.
5. Communication skills
Not everyone learns healthy communication skills at home or in school. This missed opportunity often leads to conflict and strained relationships. Group therapists help instill communication skills in their sessions to help group members improve their daily interactions with others. Being in a group provides you with ample opportunities to practice those skills with one another.
Reap the Benefits of Peer Support with Group Therapy at Northpoint Washington
When you put your faith in Northpoint Washington, you get the benefits of a group therapy program along with individual and family therapy, guidance, and medication. Our comprehensive addiction treatment programs ensure you have the best chance of a healthy recovery. Call us today at 888.450.2153 to start healing with the help of peer support.