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Groups for Substance Abuse

Alcohol and drug abuse is a disease that affects over three million people in the U.S. Substance abuse can disrupt major areas of life, leading to neglect of work, family and school responsibilities and can have major health, mental health and legal consequences. Group therapy is the most common treatment for people with substance abuse and addiction problems.

  1. 12-Step Groups

    • Twelve-step groups are widely known and have a long history of helping people with drug and alcohol dependence. Alcoholics Anonymous was the first group of this kind. The term "12-step" refers to the process of recovery, done in 12 steps or traditions. These steps are used by the individual and discussed in-group. Usually a group member who has been in recovery for a while will "sponsor" a new member and help guide her through the steps. The benefit of 12-step groups is that they are self-run and mediated, existing outside of the mental health care system, and are free. They also offer a community of peers who understand addiction.

    Psychotherapy Groups

    • Psychotherapy groups are also used in the treatment of addictions such as substance abuse. These groups are usually run by a licensed psychotherapist and are based on discussion of the individual's challenges that led to substance addiction. They may be found in mental health clinics or rehabilitation centers; the cost may or may not be covered by health insurance. These groups are based in psychoanalysis, a technique that stems from the work of Sigmund Freud. The theory behind these types of groups is that the substance use is covering up some type of internal pain, usually thought to have begun in childhood and that recovery will come from uncovering that pain.

    Psychoeducational Groups

    • Most drug and alcohol treatment centers require patients to attend psychoeducational groups. The primary goal of these groups is to educate participants about the medical, psychological and behavioral consequences of substance abuse. These types of groups can help both patients and their families understand what addiction means and what the process of recovery entails.

    Cognitive Behavioral Groups

    • Motivational interviewing is the primary cognitive-behavioral technique for substance recovery groups. This technique is time limited and goal oriented. In a group situation, the therapist employs a directive line of questioning towards clients, with the goal of helping them to understand the triggers, behaviors, thoughts and consequences of use. These types of groups are short-term and have specific goals, and insurance companies will usually cover their cost.

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