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Psychoeducational Groups: What Are They and What to Expect

Psychoeducational rehab refers to one of the different types of therapies, based on proven scientific methodologies that can be used to treat a substance abuse problem. Group sessions are particularly common for providing peer support for those undergoing alcohol or substance abuse rehabilitation.

There are different types of group therapy models and they include:

  • Support groups
  • Skills development groups
  • Problem-solving groups
  • Psychoeducational groups

Psychoeducational Rehab Groups

Psychoeducational rehab group therapy focuses on bringing people with similar disorders together in order to educate them on the symptoms and how to overcome their psychological or substance abuse problems. A psychoeducational group differs from the other types of groups in that it brings together people with a similar addiction or psychological problems. Other group therapy models, such as skills development and problem-solving groups, often bring together people with varying issues.

Another distinctive factor about psychoeducational rehab group therapy is that there is always a strong group leader who is highly involved during the therapy sessions. Since the goal of this type of group is educational, it is important for the group leader to conduct the session and closely monitor group activity to ensure that the group gets the right information.

The Sessions

Once an addict enrolls in men or women treatment centers they may be required to join a given psychoeducational group based on their diagnosis. The group is conducted by a group leader who is a qualified psychiatrist working for the rehabilitation facility.

The group leader may prepare a different topic for each session. The group leader must be conscious of the recovery stage that the addicts are in. For example, a group of people who have just joined a rehab facility, are going to have a different outlook on their addiction habits than those who have been in the facility for months.

During the sessions, different aspects of the addict’s life are examined. In one session the group leader may choose to focus on anxiety and how it affects their substance abuse problem. At a certain point during the session, other patients may be encouraged to contribute by sharing their unique experiences.

Benefits of Psychoeducational Rehab Groups

This group therapy model can be very effective in treating a drug abuse problem for those undergoing rehabilitation at men’s or women’s drug rehab centers. Addicts can benefit from the information that is specifically tailored per their diagnosis.

Friends and family of the addict can also learn how they can help their loved one overcome addiction. This is important since families will get information that will make them more self-aware around an addict through family therapy. Often friends and family act as enablers by facilitating access to the substance, either directly or indirectly.

Psychoeducational groups provide information and resources that can be useful for the addict one they leave the women’s treatment center. Addicts get skills training as part of the psychoeducational group therapy, or they may get skills training separately. Addicts may also get information on how to access community resources through these sessions.

Different types of group therapy provide peer support. Peer support helps the addict to feel a stronger sense of belonging. In a group of people facing different challenges, some patients may have a hard time fitting in. Psychoeducational groups bring together people with similar issues and with a similar diagnosis. For this reason, an addict is more likely to participate actively in group sessions, since they can relate to the issue and challenges concerning their addiction.

This group model augments other therapy options by helping addicts learn more about the drug and to reexamine the impact that substance abuse has had on their lives. When complemented with other treatment therapies from professional rehab centers, it can be effective in treating an alcohol or substance abuse problem.

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