This activity is based on Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), behavioral activation, and goal setting. Each member of the group writes down a goal they would like to accomplish to improve mental health, such as diet, exercise, sleep, mindfulness, etc. The program here at Two Dreams focuses on the improvement of one’s life through the achievement of mental peace, physical well-being, and personal productivity. We particularly substance abuse group activities emphasize mindfulness, the concept of intentionally paying attention, and being present in the moment with compassion, with acceptance, and without judgment. Every two weeks our clients engage in “group phase therapy” in which each individual reports on which phase they think they’re currently working on in their personal recovery journey. The rest of the group comments on the accuracy of their assessment and gives advice.

One way to tackle communication and inclusivity issues during group therapy is to conduct check-ins. Our clinical team facilitates group therapies to encourage positive discussion with peers. The goal of groups https://ecosoberhouse.com/ is to feel validated and supported by others with similar experiences. One of the primary challenges in substance abuse support groups is addressing participants’ resistance and ambivalence towards change.

Practice Templates

This effective communication worksheet teaches clients about effective communication techniques. Thought identification and replacement is a cornerstone of CBT, which is an evidence-based treatment for both anxiety and depression (Wolgensinger, 2015). As clients do this individually, they can share the effects of the problem with group members, which offers support and validation. The activities should reflect the goals and composition of group members as well as the theoretical approach used by the group leader or therapist. There are several factors that should be considered as a therapist or leader begins to perform activities in group therapy. A needs assessment is essential to determine the purpose of the group and the specific activities, format, and structure that will follow.

It allows participants to share something about themselves, use their creativity and imagination to come up with a convincing lie, and learn interesting things about the other group members. This activity can be an excellent icebreaker for couples therapy groups. These questions don’t probe too deeply, but can be a good reminder of the couple’s emotional connection and relationship history. In addition, it can help them learn more about themselves and their partner. As this list of suggested topics demonstrates, there are dozens, if not hundreds, of topics for discussion in group therapy. However, it’s up to you to find the right style and technique, such as group therapy, that might make it easier for you to commit to the process.

Mental Health with Substance Use Recovery

Music therapy is an excellent substance abuse group therapy activity because it provides a soothing environment for members to experience healing. There are several ways to use music therapy to deliver exceptional behavioral treatment. A licensed mental health professional leads the group members using various methods to help them learn coping skills and social skills while also learning about themselves and others.

Prior to her transition into the field of counseling, Jane worked for 10 years as a licensed massage therapist. Her first career was in animal training and behavior following her bachelor’s degree in Animal Science from the University of Connecticut in 2008. Formerly, Deb was the Chief Sales and Marketing Officer and executive responsible for marketing, admissions, and research for two of the nation’s most respected addiction treatment providers. In these positions, she was responsible for creating national visibility, substantial revenue growth, a positive shift in payer mix, and establishing a sales force.

The Challenge of Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD)

This exercise can help participants bring presence to their interactions and step out of autopilot. Some of them will only be appropriate or effective in specific groups or situations, but some will be useful for all types of groups. Check out our blog posts and resource links for the latest information on substance abuse. These techniques can be applied in group therapy to help participants recognize negative thoughts that are not particularly useful or true while working on productive behavioral patterns. These activities often place the group in a specific situation, such as a human knot, where they have to work together to untie the knot without letting go of each other.

Theme groups are focused on support and finding commonalities between members. They tend to have more structure than process groups and focus on a single topic. Two Dreams prefers to hold process groups in order to enhance the holistic treatment experience and to help clients equip themselves with the tools needed for their own recovery. Groups are lead by a trained group leader who prompts discussion and encourages everyone to participate.

Ending activities for your termination session

There are many different types of therapeutic group therapy exercises. The kinds of group activities depend on the theoretic approach that the treatment professional uses as well as the group members’ needs, background, age, and other factors. Learn about some of the most effective strategies to manage a teenage client’s anger. With worksheets, activities, and tips, this resource will result in effective anger management skills, setting your client up for a meaningful future. Incorporate these useful worksheets and activities and help your clients grow their confidence. Designed to promote positive awareness of good qualities, these tools will see your clients’ self-worth and self-esteem improve significantly.