Creating a positive, supportive environment in a group is not always easy in substance abuse groups. Clients come with their defenses up and often enter treatment because someone else told them that they have to make a change. Group leaders must know how to build cohesion and create a safe environment in which group members can take the risk to be vulnerable. The first step must be to help group members connect with each other and find commonalities so that they feel safe enough to share.
Action methods offer substance abuse counselors a fresh and exciting approach to running groups. Sociometric exercises provide powerful and engaging tools for uncovering commonalities and building connections. Using action methods such as sociometry quickly creates a sense of connection and belonging, reduces fear of judgment, and increases the willingness to share more openly.
Jennifer Salimbene, LCSW-R, CASAC, TEP, has a Masters of Science/Masters of Social Work degree from Columbia University. She has over 25 years of experience as a psychotherapist with a focus in the field of addictions and co-occurring disorders, working in inpatient, outpatient and private practice settings. She specializes in the areas of addiction treatment, codependency, trauma, PTSD, tweens, adolescents, and families . Currently, Jenny uses psychodrama in her private practice with individuals, couples, and families and runs supervision groups for counselors seeking professional development.
Regina Sewell, PhD/ MEd, LMHC, PCC, CP, PAT, is a licensed mental health counselor in New York and a licensed professional counselor in Ohio. She is certified by the American Board of Examiners as Certified Practitioner of Psychodrama, Sociometry and Group Psychotherapy. Regina specializes in codependency, addictions, LGBT issues, stress management, and getting unstuck. Her previous experience includes working in the addictions field at The Ohio State University Talbot Hall Addiction Medicine with various levels of care and teaching college courses on Drug and Alcohol Use and Abuse.
