Substance abuse isolates people. Therapists at drug counseling centers use group therapy to counteract this experience. What goes on at group therapy programs in Asheville NC? Most importantly, how can they help you overcome substance abuse?
Who Benefits from Group Therapy Programs in Asheville NC?
A chemical dependency hooked you. Because it’s difficult to overcome it, you enlisted the help of therapists. The addiction counseling Asheville NC can count on focuses on various evidence-based modalities. Examples include:
- Dialectical behavior therapy that strengthens your ability to control emotions in critical situations
- Dual diagnosis treatment for individuals with personality disorders, mood disorders, and other mental health challenges
- Family therapy, which focuses on rebuilding trust and strengthening connections with loved ones
- Mindfulness training as a way to focus on being in the present while dealing with stressors
- Yoga that combines breathing exercises with slow stretches for physical and mental recovery
- One-on-one talk therapy that encourages openness and vulnerability
Against this backdrop, group therapy plays an essential role. It’s your introduction to relapse prevention training. Similarly, it models a healthy family environment with a safe atmosphere. There, you discuss difficult topics without allowing emotions to take over.
If you’ve self-isolated during substance abuse, this step is instrumental in undoing the habit. Besides that, it lets you get comfortable with taking input from peers who’re also in recovery. It prepares you for support group meetings after program graduation.
What Group Therapy Looks Like
Group therapy programs in Asheville NC vary depending on the needs of participants. Generally, a therapist is in charge of putting together groups. When undergoing group therapy in Asheville NC program participants know that they’ll be with peers of a similar age. Doing so ensures that you feel comfortable with the process.
In gender-specific groups, you open up about topics that affect you. Sometimes, they might involve interactions with the opposite sex. Therefore, the single-gender setting is ideal for openness. Process groups are among the most common configurations.
You meet with a small number of peers and a therapist to talk about the particular struggles you face. It’s an excellent opportunity to find out what others in similar situations did. Most importantly, you learn about different perspectives. Even if there’s no immediate solution, you receive positive feedback and encouragement.
Support Group Meetings after Therapy
If you join a 12 Step or SMART group, you’ll already be familiar with the basic format of the setting. Because you know what it’s like to attend regularly, it’s easy for you to get in the swing of things. These meetings also emphasize the importance of peer support as well as accountability. Therefore, the relationships you form through them make relapse prevention possible.
Of course, before you can plan for long-term recovery, you need to enter rehab. There, you’ll participate in group therapy programs in Asheville NC. Besides that, you’ll learn how to protect your newfound sobriety.