Group Therapy and Counseling

Groups play a central role in the treatment of substance abuse. The Association for Specialists in Group Work has categorized the various kinds of groups into four categories. Psychoeducational groups provide information and limited practice in using new knowledge. They are short term and might include such groups as "driving under the influence" (DUI) classes or educational groups for addicts beginning treatment. Counseling groups address common problems and focus less on education than on members' interactions and mutual problem solving. These are generally short term and might include such groups as support groups for children of alcoholics. Psychotherapy groups aim to change people on a deeper level than do the other kinds of groups. They are typically longer lasting and ongoing. Recovering substance abusers are ...