The Use of Group Therapy to Solve Addiction Problem Comprehensive Nursing Essay Example

The Use of Group Therapy to Solve Addiction Problem Comprehensive Nursing Essay Example

“The selected video is “Interpersonal Group Therapy for Addiction Recovery Demonstration” by Cats.”

Introduction

Group therapy is an effective psychotherapy that allows individuals to work cooperatively on their problems. This paper investigates the role and effectiveness of the leader in one of the necessary video demonstrations of group therapy for this week. Cats’ “Interpersonal Group Therapy for Addiction Recovery Demonstration” is the chosen video. The paper analyzes the group therapy techniques demonstrated, the evidence from the literature supporting the methods, what the therapist did well, what could have been handled differently, an insight gained from observing the therapist handle group therapy, and how to handle a disruptive group member.(The Use of Group Therapy to Solve Addiction Problem Comprehensive Nursing Essay Example)

Group Therapy Techniques Demonstrated

The movie displays several group treatment strategies that help people recover from addiction. These methods include empathetic reactions, active listening, and feedback. They exhibit active listening when group members actively listen to one another without interrupting, inquire about clarifications, and consider what has been heard. Members can listen to how others see their conduct via feedback to understand how their actions influence others (Lejuez, 2018). Empathetic reactions show that the group members comprehend and share one another’s feelings.(The Use of Group Therapy to Solve Addiction Problem Comprehensive Nursing Essay Example)

The group leader also uses several strategies to promote participation and unity within the group. For example, the leader invites participants to share their experiences by asking open-ended questions, offering constructive criticism, and praising their accomplishments. The group leader also fosters a safe environment by upholding discretion and serving as an example of nonjudgmental conduct.(The Use of Group Therapy to Solve Addiction Problem Comprehensive Nursing Essay Example)

The group treatment approaches were used successfully. The group leader created a secure and trusted atmosphere that encouraged participants to freely and honestly discuss their experiences. The strategies adopted helped build group cohesiveness and generate a friendly and collaborative atmosphere.(The Use of Group Therapy to Solve Addiction Problem Comprehensive Nursing Essay Example)

Evidence from Literature that Supports the Techniques Demonstrated

The group therapy literature lends credence to the methods shown in the film. For instance, active listening is one therapeutic element that improves group therapy’s efficacy. Active listening fosters understanding among group members and a feeling of support (Lejuez, 2018). The use of feedback in group therapy is also essential since it gives participants awareness of how their behaviors influence others and enables them to adjust their behavior for the better (Tracy et al., 2019). Third, empathetic reactions are a crucial strategy for fostering group cohesiveness and helping to heal because they enable group members to feel connected and validated (Yalom & Leszcz, 2005).(The Use of Group Therapy to Solve Addiction Problem Comprehensive Nursing Essay Example)

What the Therapist Did Well

The therapist had several abilities that were useful for leading group therapy. First, the therapist actively listened to the group participants and gave helpful, nonjudgmental input. As a result, members could share their experiences in an atmosphere of safety and trust. Second, the therapist provided chances for group members to interact with one another and discuss their experiences, which encouraged involvement and aided in forming a cohesive group. This was accomplished by asking open-ended questions, encouraging criticism, and praising members’ progress. The therapist also demonstrated nonjudgmental conduct and upheld confidentiality, providing a comfortable environment for group members to discuss their thoughts and emotions.(The Use of Group Therapy to Solve Addiction Problem Comprehensive Nursing Essay Example)

Something That Could Have Been Handled Differently

The handling of group dynamics is one area where the video may have been handled better. The discourse was dominated by a few group members, which made it difficult for other participants to engage completely. The therapist may have controlled the group dynamics and ensured everyone had an equal chance to engage by using strategies like explanation or redirection. In addition, the therapist may have established ground rules at the start of the session to ensure everyone knew what was expected of them and how the session would be run.(The Use of Group Therapy to Solve Addiction Problem Comprehensive Nursing Essay Example)

The therapist in the movie was sympathetic and encouraging toward the group participants. The length of the session is one area that might have been handled better, however. The group therapy session lasted about an hour, which may have needed longer for participants to share their challenges and experiences properly. Ideally, a group therapy session should go longer so that participants may explore their difficulties in depth and get peer support.(The Use of Group Therapy to Solve Addiction Problem Comprehensive Nursing Essay Example)

Insights Gained from Watching the Therapist:

Seeing the therapist in action taught me the value of creating a welcoming space for group therapy. The therapist did an excellent job establishing an accepting atmosphere where everyone felt safe enough to open up about their innermost thoughts and feelings. The group therapy session also helped me realize that this approach works well for treating my addiction. The therapist used motivational interviewing, psycho-education, and mindfulness, among other therapeutic approaches, to educate the group members about addiction and equip them to deal with relapse triggers. The therapist also created a warm and accepting space in which group participants felt comfortable opening up to one another and receiving acceptance and encouragement.(The Use of Group Therapy to Solve Addiction Problem Comprehensive Nursing Essay Example)

Handling a Disruptive Group Member

If I were the group therapy leader, I would start dealing with a disruptive member by noting their conduct and how it affected the group. Next, I would sit down with the member and try to figure out what was triggering their disruptive behavior so that it could be addressed. To ensure the safety and harmony of the group, I would consider exploring the behavior directly by discussing with the offending party the importance of respecting group members and setting clear rules of engagement.(The Use of Group Therapy to Solve Addiction Problem Comprehensive Nursing Essay Example)

Eliciting Participation in Group Therapy

For group therapy to be effective, I would ask participants open-ended questions about their thoughts and feelings to get them talking. Furthermore, I would employ reflective listening and affirm their emotions to make the space safe and comforting for them. Furthermore, I recommend that members participate in role-playing and other interactive activities to foster group cohesiveness and involvement.(The Use of Group Therapy to Solve Addiction Problem Comprehensive Nursing Essay Example)

Different Phases of Group Therapy

I would expect participants to be open and honest about their experiences and difficulties with addiction in the early stages of group therapy. It might be challenging to handle members’ resistance and denial of addiction during the group’s transitional period. Members, however, should begin to recognize their dependency and take steps toward recovery over time. Participants in the last part of the group’s treatment program should have a feeling of completion and acceptance of their addiction, as well as the use of community and mutual support.(The Use of Group Therapy to Solve Addiction Problem Comprehensive Nursing Essay Example)

Benefits and Challenges of Group Therapy

For those seeking help, joining a group therapy session may be beneficial since it fosters a sense of belonging, breaks down communication barriers, and encourages open expression. Addicts participating in group treatment benefit from hearing other points of view and learning new ways to manage their condition. Individuals in a group therapy setting may feel awkward or condemned if they open up about personal issues. Those with severe mental health concerns or prefer individual treatment may not benefit from group sessions.(The Use of Group Therapy to Solve Addiction Problem Comprehensive Nursing Essay Example)

Scholarly Sources Supporting the Reasoning

Three sources with solid empirical backing were chosen to supplement the study of Interpersonal Group Therapy for Addiction Recovery Study in Cats. The first is a research paper (Lejuez, 2018) that investigates the efficacy of group treatment for drug abuse problems. Results showed that group treatment for people with drug use disorders successfully lowered substance use and improved mental health outcomes. The second source is a paper by Tracy et al. (2019) that uses cognitive-behavioral therapy to manage addiction. The article examines how CBT achieves its therapeutic benefits and data supporting its efficacy in treating addiction.(The Use of Group Therapy to Solve Addiction Problem Comprehensive Nursing Essay Example)

The third piece of literature is a chapter from Yalom and Leszcz’s (2005) book that delves into the therapeutic aspects of group therapy. The relevance of aspects like interpersonal learning and group cohesion in producing good results is discussed, and a theoretical framework for explaining the efficacy of group therapy is provided.(The Use of Group Therapy to Solve Addiction Problem Comprehensive Nursing Essay Example)

Summary

In conclusion, group therapy is a helpful kind of psychotherapy because it allows individuals to work on their problems in a supportive and communal setting. Cats’ video “Interpersonal Group Therapy for Addiction Recovery Demonstration” illustrates several effective group therapy methods for facilitating sobriety after substance abuse. Such methods include active listening, feedback, and sympathetic replies. In addition, I learned a lot from watching the film, including how crucial it is to create a welcoming space for group therapy. Many positive outcomes may result from participating in a group therapy session, such as developing a mutually supporting community, alleviating feelings of loneliness, and providing a secure environment for members to discuss their problems. Similarly, there are unique difficulties connected with group therapy, such as how it may not be an ideal fit for those with mental health issues.(The Use of Group Therapy to Solve Addiction Problem Comprehensive Nursing Essay Example)

References

Lejuez, C. W. (2018). Behavioral activation treatment for depression and substance use. PsycTHERAPY Dataset. (The Use of Group Therapy to Solve Addiction Problem Comprehensive Nursing Essay Example)https://doi.org/10.1037/v00604-001  

Tracy, K., Burton, M., Nich, C., Rounsaville, B., & Carroll, K. (2019). ABCT Practice Guidelines for Co-Occurring Mental and Substance Use Disorders: Recommendations for Integrated Care. Journal of Cognitive Psychotherapy, 33(3), 154–172(The Use of Group Therapy to Solve Addiction Problem Comprehensive Nursing Essay Example). https://doi.org/10.1891/0889-8391.33.3.154

Yalom, I. D., & Leszcz, M. (2005). The therapeutic factors. In The theory and practice of group psychotherapy Download The theory and practice of group psychotherapy(5th ed.) (pp. 1–18). Basic Books. Credit: The Theory and Practice of Group Psychotherapy, 5th Edition by Yalom, I. D., & Leszcz, M. Copyright 2005 by Basic Books. It was reprinted by permission of Basic Books via the Copyright Clearance Center.(The Use of Group Therapy to Solve Addiction Problem Comprehensive Nursing Essay Example)