If your teen has a substance abuse problem, then you might encourage them to take group therapy. While the principles of this type of therapy are the same in all groups, groups can work in different ways.

In some circumstances, psychoeducational group therapy is a good option for young people with substance use problems. What will your child gain from this type of therapy?

Knowledge 

Your child might understand that they have a substance abuse problem. However, they might not fully understand the scope of their problem and all its underlying factors.

For example, they might not understand why they use drugs or alcohol. They might not know how substances affect people physically and psychologically. They don't have the knowledge or experience to understand why they are in this current situation.

Psychoeducational group therapy helps people understand more about their problems. A group brings together people with shared experiences together with a moderator. It also often uses educational materials such as films and talks to educate members about substance abuse and the paths it can take.

This guided mix of education and peer relationships helps people learn more about substance abuse, its causes and effects, and their own problems. Your child will develop a better understanding of their situation on both rational and emotional levels.

Acceptance

Some people go into substance abuse group therapy without fully accepting their addiction or substance reliance. They know that they have a problem; however, they might minimize its severity or assume that they are really in control.

The more people learn about substance abuse and its causes and effects, the more they accept that they have a serious problem. Group settings also help with this.

If your child works with people with similar problems in a psychoeducational framework, then they learn more about themselves. Their peers are unlikely to allow them to make excuses for their behavior or to play down their addiction. By the end of the process, your child is more likely to accept and admit that they have a problem.

Recovery Readiness

If your child doesn't understand and accept that they have a substance abuse problem, then they won't be ready for recovery. They are more likely to slip back into addictive habits.

Psychoeducational group therapy gives people knowledge, peer experience and support, and a path to acceptance. Your child will also start to learn how to manage their problem. Any recovery work they do from this point is more likely to be successful.

To learn more, contact local counseling services and ask about their psychoeducational substance abuse group therapy options.