Introduction
Group therapy is a very effective avenue in the treatment of addiction and compulsive behaviors. Through group therapy, individuals receive specialized care and support about their prevailing conditions.
During group therapy, individuals relate their predicament to group members in reaching a viable solution. Group therapy involves the process of group development (Berg, 2006). This refers to various efforts towards the creation of a framework to offer support to clients.
Many therapists have difficulty in the creation of groups because of numerous complexities about the undertaking. Group development requires accuracy and precision to guarantee quality services to clients (Berg, 2006).
Various considerations suffice in the process of group development and formulation. The first involves the identification of the essence and rationale of the group. During this stage, the therapist must identify pertinent justifications that necessitate the formation of the group.
In most cases, the main aim of forming a group is assisting clients as they strive to overcome addiction and compulsive behavior (Berg, 2006).
Discussion
During the second stage, the therapist identifies the relevant resources that support the endeavors of the group. A group cannot function properly devoid of vital resources.
The therapist should identify such resources and possibly determine the source of the resources. Proper consolidation of resources creates an opportunity for the proper functioning of the group.
The third stage involves the creation of a specific organizational framework for the group. The proper organization complements group efforts and enhances efficiency in the delivery of services within the group (Berg, 2006). It also promotes the sharing of information among members.
Organizing a group is necessary for the establishment of guidelines for operation within a group.
During this stage of group development, the facilitator lays ground regarding issues such as time and venue of meeting as well as the duration of group meetings.
The final stage involves publicizing the group. This ensures that people with needs are aware of the group’s existence (Berg, 2006).
After the group commences activity, it is critical for the facilitator to ensure a high rate of retention and continuity about the participation and attendance of members. There are certain strategies that promote activity and achievement of group objectives.
One such strategy is role induction, which involves the use of relevant supporting material to sensitize members about their roles regarding group activities.
Vicarious pre-training uses similar materials to enhance understanding within the group. The above approaches enhance and promote rehabilitation and recovery within a group (Berg, 2006).
Conclusion
Group therapy is usually very effective in the treatment of addiction and compulsive behavior. The personal model offers the best approach to group therapy because it centers on a personal and effective relationship with individual members within a group (Carlbring, 2009).
The model emphasizes on understanding the dynamics of personal relationships about individual members within a group. By applying cognitive behavior therapy and motivational interviewing, the facilitator can seize the opportunity to offer quality service to clients within a group.
Cognitive behavior therapy and motivational interviewing accords an opportunity for the therapist to empathize and show concern to the predicament of individual group members (Berg, 2006).
It is important and critical for the facilitator to understand the dynamics of various models and determine their effects on group development and functioning. This promotes the desire for rehabilitation and recovery of all members within a group.
Indeed, group development is a complex undertaking. However, proper knowledge and understanding of its dynamics make it enjoyable and worthwhile (Carlbring, 2009).
References
Berg, R. (2006). Group Counselling: Concepts and Procedures. New York: Routledge.
Carlbring, D. (2009). Group Development: Contemporary Approaches. London: CENGAGE.