Goals of Individual Therapy for Substance Abuse
As treatment begins, people work with their therapist to identify the reasons for attending sessions. Goals for individual therapy are then established to set a direction for subsequent sessions. Individual therapy sessions can be structured or free form, depending on the needs of the client and techniques of the therapist. Individual therapy for substance abuse often involves a discussion of the stressors of the week, skills used to avoid relapse and feelings connected to cravings and substance use. In many cases, individual therapy can involve a discussion of family of origin patterns and norms, which can help unearth additional information about self-evaluation and the impact of early life experiences.
Effectiveness of Individual Therapy
Individual therapy can be a highly effective form of treatment. However, the effectiveness of treatment largely depends on the client’s readiness and motivation for change. The more invested the client is in their mental health and wellness, the more likely individual therapy will be useful. Finding the right fit in a counselor is an important part of the process.
Individual vs. Group Therapy
The differences between individual and group therapy are vast, and both have their own set of benefits for those who participate. In certain situations, there are advantages of individual therapy over group therapy. Often, those who struggle with severe anxiety or trauma benefit from individual therapy to address the sensitive nature of these circumstances. The decision to participate in individual vs. group therapy is best made with a therapist based on your individual needs.