The Power of Group Therapy
How Community Healing Transforms Mental Health and Substance Use Recovery
Group therapy has long been a cornerstone of mental health and substance use treatment, offering individuals a space to connect, share experiences, and receive support in a structured, therapeutic setting. Whether for those struggling with addiction, depression, anxiety, or trauma, group therapy provides a powerful mechanism for healing that goes beyond individual therapy. At Altium Health, we offer Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) tracks designed specifically for substance use and mental health clients, providing a structured yet flexible way for individuals to engage in community healing.
Our Substance Use IOP meets Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM, while our Mental Health IOP is held Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM. These groups provide essential therapeutic support while allowing clients to maintain daily responsibilities.
The Benefits of Group Therapy
Group therapy offers unique benefits that individual therapy alone cannot provide. The power of community healing lies in shared experiences, social learning, and accountability. Some of the key benefits include:
Connection and Belonging – Many individuals struggling with mental health or substance use feel isolated. Group therapy fosters connection and combats loneliness, providing a safe environment to share struggles without judgment.
Shared Learning and Support – Hearing others' experiences can offer insights, validation, and new coping strategies. Individuals often find comfort in knowing they are not alone in their struggles.
Accountability and Encouragement – Group settings create a sense of responsibility and motivation. Members support one another in staying committed to recovery and mental wellness.
Improved Communication Skills – Engaging in a group setting enhances interpersonal skills, emotional intelligence, and the ability to express thoughts and feelings constructively.
Exposure to Diverse Perspectives – Clients benefit from seeing different approaches to problem-solving, providing fresh perspectives that can help in personal growth.
The Role of Group Dynamics in Healing
Healing does not happen in isolation. Human beings are inherently social creatures, and recovery often requires the support of others who understand and relate to our struggles. Group dynamics are essential in creating a safe, therapeutic environment that fosters growth and healing.
In group therapy, trust and openness are developed through shared experiences. The therapist helps facilitate conversations, ensuring that each individual feels heard and valued. Over time, the group becomes a source of strength, allowing participants to practice vulnerability, gain self-awareness, and develop stronger coping skills.
Therapeutic Approaches Used in Group Therapy
Different therapeutic approaches can be used in group therapy, each offering unique benefits depending on the needs of the clients. At Altium Health, we incorporate evidence-based approaches tailored to both mental health and substance use recovery.
Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) for Trauma and PTSD
CPT is a form of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) specifically designed to help individuals work through trauma-related thoughts and behaviors. In a group setting, CPT allows participants to:
Challenge negative beliefs related to trauma.
Gain perspective from others who have experienced similar struggles.
Develop healthier ways to process distressing memories.
Reduce symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, and depression.
CPT helps individuals reframe negative thought patterns that contribute to distress, allowing for deeper healing and emotional regulation.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for Emotional Regulation
DBT is another highly effective approach for individuals struggling with emotional dysregulation, self-destructive behaviors, and interpersonal difficulties. In a group therapy setting, DBT focuses on:
Mindfulness – Helping individuals stay present and grounded.
Distress Tolerance – Developing coping strategies to manage crises.
Emotion Regulation – Learning techniques to identify and regulate emotions.
Interpersonal Effectiveness – Strengthening communication and relationship skills.
For individuals with substance use disorders or mood disorders, DBT offers practical tools that can be applied in daily life. Group members learn from each other's experiences, which reinforces skill-building and resilience.
Client Participation: The Key to Success in Group Therapy
The effectiveness of group therapy depends on active participation. Clients who engage fully in discussions, practice vulnerability, and commit to applying learned strategies in daily life experience the greatest benefits. What does successful participation look like?
Attending Regularly – Consistency is key in establishing trust and rapport with other group members.
Being Open and Honest – Authenticity allows for deeper healing and helps others relate to shared experiences.
Respecting Others’ Perspectives – Each member brings unique experiences and viewpoints, fostering growth through diverse perspectives.
Applying Learned Skills – Group therapy provides tools, but real change happens when clients actively use these skills outside of sessions.
At Altium Health, we create a supportive, judgment-free environment where clients feel safe to open up and engage with the process.
How Group Therapy Complements Individual Therapy
While individual therapy provides personalized, one-on-one attention, group therapy complements it by offering real-world social interaction and accountability. When combined, these two therapeutic approaches create a comprehensive treatment plan.
Benefits of Combining Group and Individual Therapy:
Deeper Exploration – Individual sessions allow clients to process personal struggles, while group therapy offers practical application and peer support.
Increased Self-Awareness – Hearing others' experiences provides insight into one's own thought patterns and behaviors.
Reinforcement of Coping Skills – Individual therapy introduces new skills, and group therapy helps clients practice them in a social setting.
Greater Emotional Support – A therapist offers professional guidance, while group members provide shared empathy and encouragement.
This multi-faceted approach ensures that clients receive both professional expertise and peer-driven motivation, accelerating the healing process.
Altium Health’s IOP for Substance Use and Mental Health
At Altium Health, we recognize the importance of structured, supportive treatment for individuals navigating mental health challenges and substance use recovery. Our Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) provides comprehensive group therapy tailored to individual needs.
Substance Use IOP
Schedule: Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM.
Focus Areas: Relapse prevention, coping strategies, DBT skills, trauma-informed care, and accountability.
Ideal For: Individuals transitioning from residential treatment, seeking additional support, or needing a structured recovery plan.
Mental Health IOP
Schedule: Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
Focus Areas: Emotional regulation, anxiety and depression management, trauma processing, and interpersonal skills.
Ideal For: Individuals struggling with mood disorders, trauma, or emotional dysregulation who need a supportive, structured setting.
Final Thoughts: Embracing the Healing Power of Group Therapy
Group therapy is more than just a treatment modality; it is a transformative experience that fosters connection, emotional growth, and long-term healing. Whether for substance use recovery or mental health challenges, engaging in a supportive community can make a profound difference in a person’s journey toward wellness.
If you or a loved one could benefit from Altium Health’s IOP programs, we encourage you to reach out today. Call us at 801-613-9843 or visit www.altiumhealth.com to learn more about how our structured group therapy can support your path to healing.
