Balancing Act: Group Therapy for Substance Abuse and Mental Health
You've got to adapt and do what you can for this client, what's in the best interest not only of the client and when you're doing group- that's one of the interesting things that you've got to balance- is the need of the individual client versus the need of the group and the group as an entity, but also the group in terms of other individual clients.
Picture this: you're in a group therapy session, and each person has their own unique story and needs. How do you balance it all? In this episode of the 'Counselor Toolbox Podcast with DocSnipes', Dr. Dawn-Elise Snipes dives into the art of matching clients to the right groups for substance abuse and mental health treatment. It's not just about placing people together; it's about understanding their readiness to change, their cultural backgrounds, and how they interact within the group. Dr.
Snipes offers practical advice on managing clients who might be under the influence during sessions, crafting a group agreement to ensure everyone feels safe and heard, and addressing the hopes and deeper issues each member brings to the table. She also shares tips on transitioning to late-stage interventions, de-escalation techniques, and fostering a supportive environment where humor plays a role in connection.
This episode is a treasure trove for anyone looking to enhance their group therapy skills, whether you're a professional or someone personally affected by these issues. Tune in to learn how to create a balanced, effective group therapy experience that meets both individual and collective needs.