Even if you are already seeing a therapist for one-on-one sessions while in recovery, it’s a good idea to think about attending group therapy for additional support. There are numerous advantages to joining a group of people who are all experiencing similar challenges and triumphs as you are. Let’s take a look at how group therapy can enhance your recovery journey.
LEARN AND GROW FROM OTHER’S EXPERIENCES
While one-on-one therapy focuses solely on your experience in recovery, group therapy opens you up to the stories and journeys of others. A group setting will allow you to become more aware of yourself as you see your struggles and successes reflected in those of others. When you are able to visualize for yourself what you see in others, you’ll be able to step more confidently forward in your recovery.
GAIN CONFIDENCE AS A COMMUNICATOR
If you’re not a fan of public speaking, group therapy might at first seem quite intimidating, especially when the topic of discussion is so personal in nature. But if you give yourself some time to work up the courage to share your own thoughts, you’ll find a very welcoming audience of peers who are or have been at your stage of recovery.
LISTEN WHEN YOU DON’T FEEL LIKE TALKING
Perhaps one of the biggest advantages of group therapy is that you can benefit from it even when you sit quietly and simply listen to others. You will always receive encouragement by the therapists and your peers to share your own reflections, but it’s understandable that you won’t be feeling chatty during every session. While this could be a bit awkward when you’re in a one-on-one session with a therapist, there’s still much to be gained just by listening to others. And when you are ready to speak, the group is ready to listen.
ENCOURAGE YOURSELF TO BE SOCIAL
We’ve all been spending more time at home these days. Whether you live alone or with others, it’s refreshing to interact with new people—even if it’s only by way of a Zoom meeting. You might even make some new friends during your sessions, but at the very least you will grow to feel comfortable around people who have things in common with you.
SAVE MONEY
From a practical perspective, group therapy sessions typically cost less than one-on-one sessions do. The lower price doesn’t lower the effectiveness, of course, but it is a good way to supplement the support system you’re building for yourself while in recovery.
YOU ARE NEVER ALONE IN GROUP THERAPY
The phrase “You are not alone” can sound rather hollow when you are, in fact, feeling lonely or are indeed living alone during your recovery. Group therapy solves that problem—all you have to do is pull up a chair.
It’s ultimately your decision as to what type of therapy is right for you, but it’s worth giving group therapy a try. Having the ability to see others at various stages in their own recovery journeys will help you understand how much progress you’ll make—and how much you have already made—toward a better, healthier life.
Article source: www.beachsiderehab.com
