Get help today 888-287-0471 or sign up for 24/7 text support.
American Addiction Centers National Rehabs Directory

Group Setting Rehab Programs for Alcohol and Drug Addiction

Studies show that peer group rehab for drug treatment is just as effective as individual counseling in promoting long-term sobriety. Peer group rehab programs offer addicts the experience of and advice from others who have walked down the same path of addiction before.

At group therapy people taking an oath together for the treatment of alcohol abuse & alcoholismThese programs provide individuals the assurance that recovery is possible by observing how others have overcome their addiction. In addition, rehab programs create a community that allows recovering addicts to feel at home, reducing their feeling of social isolation due to their situation.

The two most widely used protocols for peer group rehab are the cognitive educational group and the support group. The success of group therapy lies in having an expert addiction professional leading the group sessions.

If you or someone you know is dealing with an addiction to any type of drug, consider enrolling in group therapy treatment programs. Call our hotline today on to speak with our trained advisors for reference to a luxury treatment facility.

Did You Know?

What makes group therapy very effective is the creation of an environment where substance abusers help each other in battling their addictions.

Group Rehab and 12-Step Programs

Some people are confused about the difference between group rehab and 12-step group programs. Even though the two methods have some similarities, they do have fundamental differences. The 12-step program is less directed, accepts any number of participants, and allows members to keep silent if they choose to.

On the other hand, group therapy sessions feature the following:

  • Sessions are led and directed by leaders.
  • Each group consists of six to 12 members only.
  • Participation in some way or degree is a requirement.

Importance of Group Rehab

Although overcoming an addiction can be an overwhelming task if done on one’s own, recovering addicts who have enrolled in group therapy have found that support comes in numbers. When someone tries to break free from his or her addiction alone, self-defeat and discouragement may lead to relapse. When the sense of sobriety is nurtured, long-term recovery becomes a real possibility.

Many addicts who enter addiction rehab suffer from a feeling of isolation. Through bond-forming activities done during group therapy, the sense of isolation is converted to friendship and community. Because all members are required to participate, those struggling with social isolation can find an avenue to express themselves.

Did You Know?

Participating in aftercare programs can aid in one’s long-term recovery. One form of ongoing aftercare is participating in group therapy.

Aftercare Group Rehab

According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, continuing care, either on site or off site, in the form of group therapy or 12-step meetings is important after completing a rehab program. Group rehab can be either of two styles: cognitive behavior or support group. The focus of support groups ranges from exploring issues of recovery to discussions about relapse prevention, temptations avoidance, shared experiences, and continual social support.

Did You Know?

Group therapy for use in drug treatment often maximizes the expertise of various addiction professionals.

Benefits of Support Groups

A well-trained group leader handles each support group. This professional focuses the discussions on suitable topics and ensures every member of the group participates and benefits from each session. Advice and therapy will not necessarily come from the group leader but instead from each member of the group, through discussion and shared advice.

The group leader will demonstrate what an appropriate form of interaction is like and ensures that discussions remain encouraging and constructive. Support groups are designed to reduce the experienced apprehension associated with the transition from addiction to recovery and to encourage open discussion between group members.

If you think group rehab is right for you, give us a call on so we can refer you to a top-of-the-line treatment facility near you.

Did You Know?

Group therapy offers recovering addicts a safe setting where they can share with and learn from the experiences of fellow addicts. It reduces feelings of social isolation and loneliness and encourages effective social interaction.

Was this page helpful?
Thank you for your feedback.

American Addiction Centers (AAC) is committed to delivering original, truthful, accurate, unbiased, and medically current information. We strive to create content that is clear, concise, and easy to understand.

Read our full editorial policy

While we are unable to respond to your feedback directly, we'll use this information to improve our online help.

(0/100)