What Are the Benefits of Group Work for Chemically Dependent Clients?

Chemical dependency is a devastating illness that destroys lives and families. The treatment of chemical dependency often requires a variety of therapy methods to be effective. Chemically dependent clients have several options available, such as inpatient or outpatient treatment, individual counseling and group therapy. Group therapy is one of the most popular treatment options, and provides chemically dependent clients with several benefits.

Sharing Life Experiences

• One of the benefits of group therapy for chemical dependency is that it allows clients to share their life experiences with other people who have similar experiences. This allows a chemically dependent client to discuss their behaviors, thoughts and feelings with others in a non-judgmental setting. This creates an atmosphere in which the chemically dependent client can be more honest, both with himself and with others, an important step in treating chemical dependency.

Learning from Others

• Group therapy also provides chemically dependent clients with the opportunity to learn from others with similar experiences. In group therapy, group members can share their methods of coping with cravings, handling the concerns of family members and learning how to live chemical-free. A chemically dependent client can hear stories from other addicts that make him understand that, while his issues may be severe, others have issues that are more serious. This allows the client to learn that his chemical dependence is not insurmountable, as others with tougher issues have conquered their dependency. Since chemically dependent clients often feel that they are alone in their struggle with dependency, which creates feelings of hopelessness and isolation, being able to interact with others with similar experiences also allows clients to feel connected to other members of the group and less isolated.

Immediate Feedback

• Group therapy also offers the benefit of allowing the chemically dependent client to receive immediate feedback to questions or concerns. A client can freely discuss current issues in his life and instantly obtain advice and guidance from other members of the group, giving him immediate tools for dealing with his current problems.