This type of therapy involves the dynamics of group interaction, including group confrontation of denial, dealing with issues of interpersonal conflict or closeness, and the sharing of painful experiences or affects. Group therapy can be a supportive, therapeutic, and educational experience that can motivate and sustain invididuals struggling to cope with life stresses and drug craving while remaining drug free.

Group therapy offers individuals opportunities to identify with others who are going through similar problems, to understand the impact of substance use on their lives, to learn more about their own and others' feelings and reactions, and to learn to communicate needs and feelings more constructively. Group therapy can also be useful in providing a forum for discussing and updating the treatment plan and for developing and monitoring specific behaviors that promote recovery and prevent relapse.