
A strong support system, to include socialization, can play an important role in overall quality of life. Those with a disability, or who are recovering from an injury or illness, benefit from a support system as well as a goal for avoiding social isolation. This type of support can be found in group and community-based therapy.
Having either a physical disability, such as a limb loss, or a neurological injury that impacts a person’s cognitive processes, like a stroke, can also impact a person’s emotional and psychological well-being. The effects of an illness, injury or disability can lead to depression and anxiety or can also result in changes in behavioral patterns. For many, participating in group and community-based therapy can support both emotional and psychological well-being after a physical or neurological injury.
In this blog post, we’ll talk about what group therapy is before talking about the benefits that it can bring someone recovering from a serious injury, illness or living with a disability. We’ll also discuss how Ability KC uses group therapy as a way to build community among patients.
What you need to know about group therapy
Group therapy at Ability KC is personalized to fit the needs of the individuals served. Based on the patient’s goals, groups are included into a meaningful day. These groups include rehab support and education, speech, occupational therapy, exercise, and wellness groups, to name a few.
Group therapy is led or supported by a therapist, rehab tech or neuropsychologist and provides a safe space for people to discuss and communicate their thoughts, emotions and changes that they’re experiencing throughout their rehabilitation.
Group therapy can help members address and support their emotional, psychological and social well-being that may be impacted by their illness, injury or disability.
Benefits of group therapy for a person living with a disability or going through recovery
Group therapy goes beyond just trying to help members cope with their disability or recovery process. It can help them thrive and continue to work toward becoming the best version of themselves. The group often feels like an extension of a person’s existing support system. That’s why group therapy is seen as essential in many therapeutic facilities.
Through group therapy during rehabilitation, participants can gain benefits including:
- Finding comfort and support in other people experiencing the same challenges while practicing skills or strategies
- Learning coping skills and stress management when experiencing negative thoughts and emotions
- Processing lifestyle changes and day-to-day challenges
- Encouraging and motivating other members
- Gaining a new perspective on the impact that an illness or disability can have on loved ones and sense of self
- Recognizing their own growth and strengths
- Reducing feelings of isolation and loneliness during the program
- Addressing and decreasing symptoms of depression and anxiety
Ability KC uses group therapy as an essential aspect of recovery for people with a severe illness, injury or disability
A person’s mental and emotional health can impact the motivation they need to continue working toward recovery when there are roadblocks or plateaus in their progress.
Every person has their own personal experiences, successes and challenges as they go through the rehabilitation program. However, building a supportive community that guides patients along the way can make a significant difference in the person’s overall health and well-being.
At Ability KC, our neuropsychologists run two therapy groups in the adult medical rehabilitation program. First, there’s the Rehab Support and Education group, which focuses on the emotional impact of the rehabilitation process. There’s also the Thrive group. This group therapy works to help members learn how to cope with the challenges that come from living with a disability.
Ability KC is a designated Comprehensive Outpatient Rehabilitation Facility (CORF). We also have a Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) accreditation. Contact our team today for more information or to schedule an initial appointment.