When you start outpatient treatment at Awakenings Treatment Center, you’ll spend a large portion of your time in individual and group therapy. Both treatment approaches are effective for treating mental health and substance use disorders, though in different ways.
Understanding the differences between individual and group therapy can help you prepare for the work you’ll be doing and build realistic expectations for the recovery process.
In the early stages of recovery, you can expect to spend more time in individual therapy. However, as you progress through the journey, you’ll spend more time engaging with others in group settings.
Fortunately, when you seek care at Awakenings Treatment Center, you don’t have to choose between both of these therapies—or any therapies for that matter! You can utilize as many therapeutic tools as necessary to support your recovery.
Let’s learn more about individual and group therapy, how they differ, and what you can expect from each.
Structure and Setting
Individual therapy is a one-on-one session between you and your therapist. This private setting allows for more personalized attention where your therapist can focus on your needs. You can also discuss issues that you may not feel comfortable talking about in front of others, such as sexual abuse.
It’s important to have a therapist you trust, as you’ll be working with them to explore the thoughts, emotions, and behaviors that may be contributing to your substance use and mental health problems.
In contrast, group therapy involves a small group of individuals who meet regularly. The group members often share similar issues or challenges, such as anxiety, depression, or trauma. The sessions are structured to encourage interaction among members, allowing them to share experiences, offer support, and learn from one another.
These groups differ from traditional support groups in that they are led by a trained therapist who facilitates the conversation, guides discussions, and ensures the environment is safe and supportive.
Focus and Approach
Individual therapy is more introspective, focusing on personal history, emotions, and thought patterns. This approach is highly personalized, allowing you to deeply explore specific issues with your therapist. In doing so, you can better understand your motivations for engaging in negative behaviors like substance use, and develop healthier ways to cope. This type of therapy is effective for exploring in-depth mental health and substance use issues.
With group therapy, the focus is on shared experiences and collective healing. When listening to others’ stories and challenges, you can gain insight into your issues and remind yourself that you are not alone in your struggles. The group dynamic also fosters a sense of belonging and mutual support, which is comforting to those feeling alone.
Privacy and Confidentiality
As you can understand, individual therapy offers a higher level of privacy and confidentiality compared to group therapy. The discussions are solely between you and your therapist, and the environment allows you to explore sensitive topics without the concerns of others knowing your business. This can make individual therapy more appealing to some people.
Group therapy may not be as private, but confidentiality remains a key component. Nevertheless, you’ll still be sharing sensitive information with a group of people, so you must be able to trust that they will respect your privacy. Always use your discretion when deciding which topics you want to share with others.
Cost and Accessibility
Individual therapy tends to be more expensive because you are receiving personalized attention from the therapist. However, the cost is usually justified, particularly if you are working through complex or deeply rooted issues. Some people find that they need fewer sessions of individual therapy to see progress, offsetting some of the price difference.
Group therapy, on the other hand, tends to be more affordable because you’re sharing the therapist’s time with other people. This affordability makes group therapy accessible to more people, particularly those who lack insurance or are underinsured.
Suitability for Different Issues
More complex or deeply rooted issues—trauma, severe anxiety, depression—are ideal for an individual setting. The one-on-one dynamic allows the therapist to address specific concerns that may require a more specialized approach. Individual therapy is also recommended for those who prefer a private and individualized experience.
Issues related to social interaction, relationship problems, and shared experiences like substance use or grief often do best in a group setting. This setting allows you to learn from others and practice new behaviors in a safe environment. If you need support from peers and collective encouragement, you will also find value in group therapy.
Individual and Group Therapy in Agoura Hills, CA
Both group therapy and individual therapy offer valuable benefits, and the choice between the two depends on your unique needs and preferences. Group therapy provides a sense of community, shared learning, and support, making it ideal for those who benefit from social interaction and collective healing. On the other hand, individual therapy offers personalized attention, privacy, and a deep exploration of personal issues, making it suitable for those seeking a more intimate therapeutic experience.
Ultimately, the decision should be based on what feels most comfortable and beneficial for you. Some individuals even choose to engage in both types of therapy at different times, depending on their evolving needs.
To learn more about the therapeutic services offered at Awakenings Treatment Center, and how we can support your healing journey, contact our admissions team today.
