Finding Strength, Support, and Shared Healing
At Lanier Recovery Center, Group Therapy is a core component of our addiction and mental health treatment programs. Healing happens in connection—and group therapy offers a powerful, structured space where clients can share their experiences, learn from others, and build the emotional and relational skills essential to long-term recovery.
Led by licensed therapists and tailored to different phases of care, our group therapy sessions are offered in every level of outpatient programming: Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP), Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP), and Outpatient Program (OP). From early sobriety to relapse prevention, group therapy creates an atmosphere of accountability, growth, and empathy.
What Is Group Therapy?
Group Therapy involves a small group of individuals meeting regularly under the guidance of a licensed therapist to discuss thoughts, emotions, and challenges related to addiction, recovery, and mental health. Each group is designed to encourage honest dialogue while fostering a supportive environment where members help one another grow.
Unlike informal support groups, our therapy groups are clinician-led, evidence-based, and tailored to specific recovery themes and skill sets. Common group types include:
-
Process Groups (emotional sharing and feedback)
-
Psychoeducational Groups (learning recovery skills and concepts)
-
Skills Groups (CBT, DBT, and relapse prevention)
-
Specialty Groups (trauma-informed, grief/loss, men’s/women’s focus)
Our goal is to help every client feel heard, supported, and challenged in the right ways—so they leave each session more equipped for real-world success.
Why Group Therapy Matters in Recovery
Addiction often thrives in isolation. Whether due to shame, fear, or the nature of substance use itself, many clients come to treatment feeling cut off from meaningful connection. Group therapy addresses that isolation head-on by creating a safe, structured environment to:
-
Share personal experiences without judgment
-
Practice vulnerability in a supportive setting
-
Receive honest, empathetic feedback from peers
-
Learn new perspectives and emotional insights
-
Develop communication, empathy, and conflict-resolution skills
-
Build social confidence and relational resilience
Clients are often surprised by how deeply they connect with others in group therapy—and how much those connections help accelerate their healing.
Group Therapy Across PHP, IOP, and OP
Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP): Group therapy is central to PHP, with clients participating in multiple group sessions each day. Topics range from early recovery struggles to trauma resilience, relapse prevention, and relationship skills.
Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP): In IOP, clients attend group sessions three to five days per week, with groups focusing on reintegration into work, school, and home life while maintaining emotional balance and sobriety.
Outpatient Program (OP): In OP, group therapy offers ongoing support and relapse prevention tools. Groups focus on long-term emotional growth, continued connection, and sustained recovery maintenance.
Each level of care is intentionally designed to provide the right level of structure and flexibility, ensuring clients get what they need without feeling overwhelmed.
Common Group Therapy Topics
Group topics are adapted based on the group’s phase of treatment, current needs, and therapist specialization. Sessions may include:
-
Understanding addiction and the brain
-
Triggers, urges, and cravings
-
Setting boundaries and healthy relationships
-
Communication and emotional literacy
-
Trauma awareness and grounding skills
-
Coping with grief, shame, and guilt
-
Mindfulness and distress tolerance
-
Identity rebuilding and self-esteem work
Therapists balance teaching with open process time, allowing for spontaneous emotional breakthroughs and connection.
What to Expect in a Group Session
We know group therapy can feel intimidating at first, especially for clients new to treatment. At Lanier Recovery Center, we make it a point to foster psychological safety and clear expectations. Here’s what clients can expect:
-
Groups are limited in size to encourage participation and support
-
Every session is facilitated by a trained, licensed therapist
-
Clients are never forced to share more than they’re comfortable with
-
Ground rules are established to promote respect and confidentiality
-
Sessions often include guided discussions, skills practice, and shared feedback
-
There is space for laughter, emotion, honesty, and growth
Over time, group members often become an essential source of support, inspiration, and accountability in each other’s lives.
Who Benefits from Group Therapy?
Group therapy is highly effective for individuals struggling with:
-
Substance use and relapse patterns
-
Depression, anxiety, and emotional dysregulation
-
Codependency and relationship difficulties
-
Trauma, grief, and loss
-
Self-esteem and identity issues
-
Social anxiety or isolation
Clients often find that hearing others express similar thoughts or struggles helps them feel less alone—and more empowered to change.
Why Choose Group Therapy at Lanier Recovery Center?
We take group therapy seriously. It’s not filler—it’s foundation. At Lanier Recovery Center, our group programs are:
-
Led by licensed clinicians who specialize in addiction and mental health
-
Trauma-informed and emotionally safe
-
Adapted to meet clients where they are emotionally and developmentally
-
Integrated with individual therapy and case management
-
Designed for real-world application, not just theory
What makes our groups powerful is the environment. Clients tell us that our groups feel like a family—a place where vulnerability is met with respect, and progress is celebrated every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I have to share personal things in front of the group?
You’ll never be forced to share more than you’re comfortable with. Many clients begin by simply listening and gradually open up when they feel ready.
Is group therapy as effective as individual therapy?
Both are essential parts of recovery. Group therapy provides peer connection, emotional feedback, and a powerful reminder that you are not alone.
What if I have social anxiety?
Group therapy is a safe place to work through social fears. Many clients find that participating actually improves their confidence and comfort in group settings.
How big are the groups?
Group sizes are kept small—usually between 6 to 10 clients—to ensure every participant has space to share, reflect, and connect.
Do I attend the same group every time?
You may rotate between several groups depending on your treatment plan, therapist recommendation, and phase of care.
Start Group Therapy in Atlanta Today
If you’re seeking group therapy in Atlanta that’s compassionate, clinically sound, and centered around true connection, Lanier Recovery Center is here for you. Whether you’re early in recovery or returning after a setback, you’ll find a supportive group of professionals and peers ready to walk with you.
Call now or fill out our secure online form to speak with our admissions team and begin your path to recovery.
