Effective group leadership to treat substance disorders

Effective group leadership concepts and techniques used for treatment of substance disorders.
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Why group therapy for substance disorders?

Because human beings by nature are social beings, group therapy is a powerful therapeutic tool that is effective in treating substance abuse. The therapeutic groups described in this Treatment Improvement Protocol (TIP) are those groups that have trained leaders and a specific intent to treat substance abuse.

Stages of treatment?

As clients move through different stages of recovery, treatment must move with them. That is, therapeutic strategies and leadership roles will change with the condition of the clients. In the early phase of treatment clients tend to be ambivalent about ending substance use, rigid in their thinking, and limited in their ability to solve problems. Resistance is a challenge for the group leader at this time.

People with addictions remain vulnerable during the middle phase of treatment. Though cognitive capacity usually begins to return to normal, the mind can still play tricks. The leader draws attention to positive developments, points out how far clients have traveled, and affirms the possibility of increased connection and new sources of satisfaction.

In the late phase of treatment clients are stable enough to face situations that involve conflict or deep emotion.

Qualities of Group leader:

Effective group leadership requires a constellation of specific personal qualities and professional practices. The personal qualities necessary are constancy, active listening, firm identity, confidence, spontaneity, …