Group therapy
Group work is a vital part of our therapeutic programme. The Netcare Akeso Stepping Stones therapeutic model uses a blend of dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT) with the principles of the Minnesota 12 step model which practices the philosophy of abstinence.
DBT equips you with new skills to manage painful and difficult emotions and to decrease conflict in your relationships. It focuses on providing therapeutic tools in four important areas:
- Mindfulness – focuses on improving your ability to accept and be present in the moment.
- Distress tolerance – aimed at helping you tolerate negative and uncomfortable emotions instead of trying to escape the feelings.
- Emotional regulation – ways to achieve emotional regulation when problems challenge you.
- Relationships – how to strengthen relationships using tools and techniques to communicate with others in ways that are empowering and assertive whilst achieving self-respect.
Dialectical behaviour therapy is a key component for our therapeutic programme as it involves teachable skills which can be applied to many different areas of your life, including your recovery.
Our group therapy programme addresses various treatment needs such as:
- Communication skills
- Coping skills
- Life skills
- Self-care
- Social skills
- Leisure interests and pursuits
- Future planning
With occupational therapists as a core part of the therapy team, and often leading group therapy, you are given an opportunity to holistically improve your functioning in all aspects of your life including, but not limited to, activities of daily living, work productivity, social participation, leisure pursuits, education, and sleep hygiene. To do this, facilitated skills based group therapy on boundaries, conflict management, self-esteem, cross addictions, and goals, amongst others, are offered.
We also cover addiction basics such as triggers, relapse prevention, the culture of addiction, and tools for recovery in our group therapy. Furthermore, process groups and psychoeducational lectures form part of our group therapy.
These sessions address various topics such as denial, process addiction, depression, anxiety, conflict management, emotional regulation, grief, powerlessness and damages, family systems, and co-dependency.
You will also receive guidance on your post-discharge plan focusing on goals, work, family, and ongoing recovery.