Addiction recovery is quite challenging, but possible, nonetheless.

This is why a number of therapies and forms of treatment are integrated to aid recovery.

Individual and group therapies are two forms of this treatment. Recovery programs often include both approaches to have optimum outcomes. Several people think that these two approaches are at odds with each other. However, you’d be surprised.

Here’s a brief introduction to individual and group therapies:

Individual therapy

Individual sessions are designed in accordance with a person’s needs. A mental health professional will work with a client to understand their addiction and its underlying reasons.

Typically these sessions are held for 50 minutes in the health professional’s office or another space, ensuring patient privacy. The therapists do not judge patients; instead they work together to allow them to move forward in recovering.

It is more motivational interviewing than a confrontational approach. It focuses on encouraging the patient and increasing their self esteem to help them overcome their addiction.

Discussion usually involves their current progress in the rehab, withdrawal symptoms, personal obstacles, interactions inside and outside the drug addiction treatment center, and their future goals for recovery. Newer goals are set and progress is noted in each session, encouraging the patient further.

Group therapy

These sessions are based on communication with other patients. It gives them an opportunity to learn from others’ experiences. They share coping techniques, further build their communication skills and gain strength from the plight of others who are dealing with the same issues.

Addiction often leads a person to isolation; group sessions aim to counter this.

Interpersonal relationships alone can do wonders for addicts, especially when they meet other people struggling just like they themselves are.

Several people find deep connections and build new friendships in such sessions. It also often involves a patient’s family; spouses, parents, and children to make them feel more at home.

Group therapies are led by a trained professional and often last an hour or more. Residential treatment centers often hold 3 to 5 sessions per week. They discuss managing stress, taking medications, coping with triggers and dealing with mental illness.

Combined Therapies

Both individual and group sessions are integrated for better results. Professionals understand that both these forms have benefits; while individual therapy help a person to reflect, group session helps inspire them to recover.

Do you know anyone suffering from addiction or do you want to recover from this? Then call us today at 877-450-1880 and let us help you.