What should clients expect from a women’s group therapy program in Utah—or in any other state? First of all, a program that’s for women only means that the approach is gender-specific.
There’s something special about being in a group setting and feeling like you’re among peers. This often leads to clients feeling like it’s easier to relate difficult experiences they’ve gone through. For many women, a refuge like this must also be women-only gatherings. Searching for a women’s group therapy program in Utah? Contact Painted Desert Recovery today. Call 844.540.0357 or reach out to our team online.
What Is a Group Therapy Program?
In general, a group therapy program is a form of psychotherapy. Unlike an individual therapy program, group therapy programs have several patients meet regularly to share their thoughts and experiences with guidance from a therapist. Although many patients initially feel intimidated by the idea of sharing personal issues with a group of strangers, research has shown that this setting is highly effective.
A group therapy program may be used alone to treat a disorder, but it’s typically part of a more comprehensive treatment plan that may include individual therapy and even medication. Many different types of problems can be addressed with group therapy, including the following:
- Addiction
- Anger
- Chronic pain
- Depression
- Grief
Why Is Gender-Specific Treatment Important?
Gender-specific treatment refers to plans that are designed to treat only men or only women specifically. Some may use the terms “gender-specific” and “gender-exclusive” interchangeably, but these are the same thing and address the same issues.
While there are fundamental differences between men and women—biologically, culturally, and more—many traditional treatment programs don’t consider them. However, the comprehensiveness and customization of a treatment program often cover a patient’s medical history, age, and other specific details. Covering sex and gender details may only result in minor comforts for some patients, but it can be affirming and life-changing for others.
For example, studies show that women and men have different reasons for developing substance use and different circumstances that result in relapse. Gender-specific addiction treatment programs are sensitive to all these issues and therefore can be more helpful in guiding participants as they recover.
When Should You Consider a Women’s Group Therapy Program?
Women have their own specific needs, separate from men’s needs when it comes to seeking treatment for psychiatric disorders like addiction. Some women may find it ideal to start their healing journey in a women-specific program. They may find it safer to talk to only other women about motherhood, relationships, workplace dynamics, and family life. A few may not view a traditional group therapy environment as safe and supportive if there are male participants.
Women who are entering addiction treatment after a traumatic event may particularly benefit from gender-specific programs. Women who have experienced verbal, physical, or sexual assault at the hands of a man will not feel safe discussing these experiences in traditional group therapy that allows male participants. Some may not even feel safe and secure discussing their traumatic thoughts and stories with male medical professionals.
In gender-specific addiction treatment, women receive unconditional love and support while recovering. That’s what patients can expect from any women’s group therapy program, whether or not they’re undergoing it as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. Women can empower one another and build a strong support system in women-specific treatment programs. The same can be said for men in men-specific treatment programs.
Ready to Learn More About Painted Desert’s Women’s Group Therapy Program?
If you’re looking for a women’s group therapy program in Utah, contact Painted Desert Recovery today. Reach out to our team online or call 844.540.0357.
