Discussion 1: Benefits of Group Therapy

Group therapy is often utilized when treating substance abuse and aIDiction for a variety of reasons. Group therapy can provide a level of accountability not found in individual therapy. One form of accountability is the use of “sponsors,” a service that is typically not found in individual therapy. Therapy groups frequently include members who are at varying stages of recovery. This enables group members to interact with others in the therapy group who are struggling with similar issues. Those who are at later stages of recovery can see through the defenses (e.g., minimization, denial, and rationalization) that might be displayed by newer therapy group members. The relapse rates for substance abuse and aIDiction can be high, and, thus, the cost of treatment can be high. Group therapy provides a cost-effective treatment form by splitting the cost between multiple members.

Sometimes watching something makes the content “come to life” in a way that reading does not. This week you get an opportunity to watch a movie that incorporates group therapy. More specifically, you analyze group therapy movies that are based on substance abuse or aIDiction.

For this Discussion, review one of the suggested movies in this week’s Learning Resources. As you watch, notice how the therapy group might differ from other non-substance or aIDiction therapy groups. In aIDition, examine how the dynamics of the therapy group are therapeutic and how this process is different from individual therapy. In particular, keep Yalom’s therapeutic factors in mind, and see how they play out in the film’s therapy group.

With these thoughts in mind:

Day 3 a brief description of the film you selected. Then, explain why group therapy is an effective treatment for substance abuse or aIDiction based upon what you saw in the film. Finally, explain which therapeutic factors might have the most benefit for people in group therapy for substance abuse or aIDiction. Be specific and use the Learning Resources and current literature to support your response.

Be sure to support your postings and responses with specific references to the Learning Resources.

Discussion 2: Experience and Effectiveness in Group Therapy

How might clients feel if they discovered that their substance abuse therapist had no personal experience with substance abuse? Would they feel betrayed? Lied to? Would they even care? Does past recovery experience influence the effectiveness of a substance abuse therapist? Therapy is an intensely personal journey, and it is important that clients trust their therapist to successfully guide them through the process.

For this Discussion, review the media titled “Audio Therapist: Colleague Calling.” Think about how you might respond to your colleague on the phone. Consider the relationship between effectiveness as a therapy group leader and firsthand experience with the recovery process. Use your own words in clear terms, as though you are speaking directly to a colleague.

With these thoughts in mind:

Post by Day 4 your response to the colleague. Include how you would explain to your colleague how she can convey her effectiveness as a group therapist. Provide the rationale for your response to the colleague. Be specific and use the Learning Resources and current literature to support your response.