Group therapy is one of the most effective and widely used approaches for treating substance use disorders (SUD). At Desert Willow Wellness, group sessions are designed for adults recovering from alcohol and drug addiction. We also address co-occurring mental health concerns that stem from or contribute to substance misuse. Our licensed clinicians guide group sessions to strengthen insight, accountability, and long-term recovery.

Recovery from addiction requires connection and shared understanding. Many individuals with substance use disorder experience isolation, guilt, and difficulty maintaining motivation. Group therapy helps break this cycle by providing a supportive setting where peers learn from one another’s experiences and progress together in sobriety.
At Desert Willow Wellness, group sessions are an essential part of our integrated treatment model, which also includes individual therapy, family therapy, and holistic wellness practices.
You can expect to:
Group therapy takes place in a structured setting led by trained clinicians. Each session focuses on exploring behaviors, emotions, and beliefs tied to substance use. Clients learn to identify triggers, manage cravings, and practice relapse prevention strategies while gaining perspective from peers facing similar challenges.
As research shows, group treatment helps reduce isolation and allows members to witness recovery in others, reinforcing hope and commitment to change.
Peer interaction allows participants to practice skills, receive constructive feedback, and build confidence in recovery. The clinician facilitates group discussions to ensure safety, respect, and relevance to each stage of treatment.
Group sessions at Desert Willow Wellness help clients:
Group therapy supports and enhances the effectiveness of individual treatment. Key benefits include:
While addiction is the primary focus of treatment, many clients also experience anxiety, depression, or trauma-related symptoms. At Desert Willow Wellness, we address these co- occurring conditions only when they are connected to substance use. This integrated approach supports recovery from addiction while improving emotional stability and quality of life.
Our group sessions incorporate evidence-based modalities tailored to the needs of clients in recovery:
Each session is professionally facilitated and designed to create a respectful, confidential environment. Participation is encouraged but develops naturally at your own pace. As comfort grows, clients often find group sessions to be a highlight of their treatment experience.
Group therapy is used throughout all levels of care at Desert Willow Wellness—from detox and residential treatment to aftercare and alumni programming—helping clients apply what they’ve learned in real-world settings.
Desert Willow Wellness provides inclusive, evidence-based care for adults 18 and older. Located in Palm Springs, our serene environment supports healing and personal growth. We welcome individuals from all backgrounds who are ready to begin their recovery from drug or alcohol addiction.
The insight and connections developed in group therapy extend far beyond treatment. Clients gain practical skills for relapse prevention, stronger emotional resilience, and meaningful peer relationships that support lifelong sobriety. Continued participation in aftercare and alumni groups reinforces these gains and supports ongoing wellness.