Dual Diagnosis Group Therapy:
Your Path to Whole-Person Healing

Learn how dual diagnosis group therapy at New Life Recovery in California helps individuals overcome co-occurring addiction and mental health challenges.
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Written and reviewed by the clinical team at New Life Recovery in Fresno, California, including licensed therapists, medical professionals, and recovery specialists committed to helping individuals build healthier futures.

What This Page Covers

Here’s a brief overview of this page:
  • What Dual Diagnosis Group Therapy Is: Dual diagnosis group therapy is a type of therapy where individuals suffering from substance abuse and a mental condition simultaneously receive therapy together in a structured environment.
  • Benefits of Dual Diagnosis Group Therapy: Dual diagnosis group therapy offers support, shared understanding, and a safe space for individuals to learn coping skills for both addiction and mental health challenges.
  • The Holistic Treatment Approach: New Life Recovery’s group therapy incorporates mind, body, and spirit practices, including mindfulness, breathwork, and creative expression.
  • Key Topics Discussed in Group Therapy: Common topics addressed in group sessions include managing triggers, emotional regulation, and positive coping mechanisms.
  • New Life Recovery’s Role: New Life Recovery in Fresno provides specialized dual diagnosis group therapy across California, offering accessible and expert-led programs for lasting recovery.

Connect with New Life Recovery today to learn more about integrated dual diagnosis group therapy.

Table of Contents

Understanding Dual Diagnosis

Dual diagnosis, also known as co-occurring disorders, is when someone suffers from both a substance use disorder (SUD) and a mental health condition at the same time.1
Some common examples of mental health conditions that co-occur with substance abuse are depression, PTSD, and anxiety disorders.
dual diagnosis group therapy

Why Dual Diagnosis Requires Integrated Treatment

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, nearly half of those who experience a substance use disorder will also struggle with mental illness at some point in their lives.2
Both disorders often feed into each other. For example:
  • Someone battling untreated depression may turn to alcohol or drugs to numb emotional pain.
  • A person with PTSD might misuse substances in an attempt to escape intrusive thoughts or flashbacks.
  • Chronic substance use can chemically alter the brain, triggering or worsening mental health issues like anxiety or mood disorders.
Leaving either condition untreated will make the other more difficult to manage, which is why coordinated treatment that addresses both the mental health condition and the addiction, simultaneously, is crucial.3

At New Life Recovery, our Central Valley drug rehab is here to help you achieve lasting recovery, taking into account your unique needs, goals, and experiences.

By treating dual diagnosis at the root—rather than the overarching symptoms—we can help you or your loved one create a life you love.

What is Dual Diagnosis Group Therapy?

Dual diagnosis group therapy is when individuals with both co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders come together in a structured, clinician-led setting.
It leverages the power of shared experience, creating an environment where participants realize their struggles aren’t specific to only their situation. Through group therapy, they are exposed to an atmosphere of validation, accountability, and collective growth.
Dual diagnosis group therapy also fosters a supportive community where individuals can practice their coping skills, receive feedback, and witness the recovery journeys of others.

Core Benefits of Dual Diagnosis Group Therapy

Group therapy offers many unique advantages for individuals navigating the complexities of dual diagnosis, including:

Shared Understanding

Dual diagnosis can be incredibly isolating, especially when others don’t understand what it’s like to manage both mental illness and addiction. Group therapy reduces this isolation by connecting participants with peers who “get it.”4

Peer Support

Group settings foster accountability, empathy, and real-time feedback. Participants often support each other by sharing insights, celebrating milestones, and offering encouragement during setbacks.

Integrated Skills Building

Dual diagnosis group therapy is not just about talking – it’s about learning and practicing skills. Participants gain tools for managing depression, anxiety, cravings, and trauma triggers.

By integrating these techniques into daily life, they build resilience for both short-term recovery and long-term mental wellness.5

Safe Space for Vulnerability

Opening up about trauma, relapse, or shame isn’t easy, but in the safety of a nonjudgmental group, it becomes possible. These sessions encourage honest reflection and emotional processing, both of which are vital to lasting recovery.

Holistic Elements in Group Therapy at New Life Recovery

At New Life Recovery in Fresno, CA, we believe that complete healing encompasses the integration of the body, mind, and soul, which is why our dual diagnosis group therapy sessions are thoughtfully designed to include holistic elements.

This way, participants don’t just learn how to manage their mental health symptoms – they’re also able to reconnect with their inner self and discover a new sense of purpose and peace.
Some of the holistic elements we offer include:

Mindfulness and Grounding Exercises

Every session incorporates mindfulness-based techniques, such as guided meditation, body scans, and grounding practices. These techniques help participants reconnect with the present moment and regulate emotional responses.

Breathwork for Anxiety Management

Conscious breathing is a powerful tool for calming the nervous system. We use breathwork techniques to reduce anxiety, manage cravings, and promote a sense of control.

Creative Expression Woven Into Discussions

Healing doesn’t happen only through words. Many of our group sessions incorporate art therapy, music therapy, or journaling prompts as vehicles for emotional release and self-exploration.

Our group sessions are led by trained clinicians who understand the unique challenges of dual diagnosis.

Our facilitators are not only licensed clinicians – they’re also trained in holistic practices like yoga, energy work, and somatic therapy. This allows us to blend science-based strategies with intuitive healing in a truly integrated model of care.

dual diagnosis group therapy

Key Topics Addressed in Dual Diagnosis Group Sessions

Each dual diagnosis group therapy session at New Life Recovery is thoughtfully designed to tackle the core challenges of dual diagnosis recovery.
Some of the most commonly explored topics in our support groups include:

Managing Triggers and Cravings

This topic teaches participants how to identify their personal triggers. For some, it might be a place; for others, specific emotions or people. It also teaches them how to navigate these triggers while equipping them to manage intense cravings.

Coping With Depression, Anxiety, or Trauma Without Substances

Another focus is developing healthy, non-substance strategies for managing the symptoms of their mental health condition. This includes cognitive behavioral techniques, relaxation strategies, and trauma-informed approaches.

Setting Boundaries and Improving Communication

Many individuals with dual diagnoses struggle with interpersonal relationships. This may be due to a history of unhealthy patterns or ineffective communication skills.
Group therapy provides a safe space to learn and practice setting healthy boundaries, asserting needs, and communicating respectfully but effectively.

Building Emotional Regulation Skills

Identifying, understanding, and effectively managing a broad spectrum of emotions is vital for recovery.6 Group sessions teach practical skills like distress tolerance, emotional awareness, and healthy expression.
With these skills, individuals can navigate difficult feelings without resorting to negative coping mechanisms.

Understanding the Impact of Past Trauma on Current Behavior

Trauma often lies at the root of both substance use disorders and mental health conditions.7
Group therapy provides a supportive atmosphere for participants to explore the impact of trauma on their behaviors, thought patterns, and emotional responses. This understanding can help them break out of cycles of self-sabotage while fostering genuine healing.

Developing Relapse Prevention Plans that Support Mental Wellness

A comprehensive relapse prevention plan is vital for long-term recovery. In our dual diagnosis groups, these plans are specifically tailored to address both substance use and mental health concerns.
Here, participants learn how to identify warning signs and how to prevent them from occurring. They also develop a network of support that promotes accountability.

Tailoring Group Therapy Across all Levels of Care

Dual diagnosis group therapy is not limited to one stage of treatment.
At New Life Recovery in Fresno, CA, we adapt our group offerings across various levels of care to meet clients where they are in their recovery journey. We offer all levels of care on a single campus, ensuring that you receive the treatment you deserve in a supportive environment.
Some treatment options we offer include:

Inpatient/Residential Treatment

In our residential programs, dual diagnosis group therapy is intensive and daily. Clients receive around-the-clock support and participate in multiple group sessions per day, allowing for deep exploration and rapid progress.

Partial Hospitalization & Intensive Outpatient Program

Our PHP and IOP levels of care offer flexible dual diagnosis group therapy scheduling. It’s perfect for those who need structure but not 24/7 supervision.

These sessions occur multiple times a week and are designed to maintain continuity while supporting reintegration into daily life.

Outpatient and Aftercare

Recovery doesn’t end after your treatment finishes. Our outpatient dual diagnosis group therapy provides ongoing support, accountability, and community. Many clients continue attending groups for months or years as part of their wellness maintenance.

Role of Group Therapy in Long-Term Recovery

Recovery from dual diagnosis is not a quick fix; it’s a lifelong journey. Dual diagnosis group therapy plays a central role in sustaining growth, preventing relapse, and fostering deep self-awareness over time.
For long-term recovery, group therapy offers:

Connection and Belonging

A sense of belonging is one of the most significant predictors of long-term recovery success. Dual diagnosis group therapy creates a consistent, supportive network that clients can rely on long after their initial treatment ends.

Self-Awareness

By hearing others’ stories and reflecting on their own, participants in group therapy gain insight into their behaviors, beliefs, and emotional patterns. This self-awareness is key to breaking old cycles and making empowered choices.

Lifelong Healing and Long-Term Sobriety

At New Life Recovery in Fresno, we encourage clients to see therapy as a lifelong tool for growth. Continued group participation can help individuals stay grounded, inspired, and resilient, regardless of what life brings.
dual diagnosis group therapy

Experience Dual Diagnosis Group Therapy at New Life Recovery in California

New Life Recovery in California offers comprehensive, trauma-informed group therapy for individuals with a dual diagnosis. Our programs are designed by licensed clinicians and holistic experts who understand the unique needs of co-occurring conditions.

We offer:
  • Inpatient and outpatient options, all provided at our single campus in Fresno.
  • Specialized dual diagnosis groups led by experienced therapists.
  • Trauma-informed care rooted in compassion and clinical excellence.
  • Holistic integration that includes mindfulness, creative therapies, and somatic practices.
  • Flexible scheduling to accommodate real-life responsibilities.
Our mission is to support every individual in finding healing that lasts – physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.

Let’s Create Your Healthier Tomorrow, Today

If you or a loved one is struggling with both substance abuse and mental health challenges, you don’t have to face it alone. Dual diagnosis group therapy at New Life Recovery can be the turning point you need.

Contact us today to learn how our evidence-based, holistic programs can help you reclaim your life and build a future grounded in resilience, connection, and hope.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Dual Diagnosis Group Therapy

Consider these frequently asked questions:
What is dual diagnosis group therapy?
Dual diagnosis group therapy is a specialized treatment designed for individuals who are experiencing both a substance use disorder and a mental health condition, such as anxiety, depression, or PTSD.
The power of this format lies in the shared understanding of knowing you’re not alone in navigating complex, co-occurring conditions. It’s especially effective because it allows participants to develop insight and skills while also receiving encouragement and accountability from others.
At New Life Recovery in Fresno, we offer comprehensive dual diagnosis group therapy tailored to the unique needs of individuals dealing with both addiction and mental health challenges.
Our Fresno campus provides a trauma-informed, whole-person approach, combining evidence-based therapies like CBT and DBT with holistic practices such as mindfulness, breathwork, and art therapy.
Whether you’re in inpatient care or an outpatient program, you’ll have access to expert guidance, peer support, and a therapeutic community that understands the importance of treating the mind, body, and spirit together.
Group therapy for dual diagnosis covers a wide range of topics that address both mental health and substance use concerns. Common areas of focus include managing emotional triggers, understanding and coping with cravings, building emotional regulation skills, and exploring the impact of trauma.
Communication and boundary-setting are also emphasized, helping individuals develop healthier relationships and interpersonal dynamics.
New Life Recovery in Fresno offers flexible outpatient group therapy options for individuals who need continued support but don’t require 24/7 care. Our IOP and PHP provide regular group therapy sessions throughout the week, with scheduling options that work around job, school, or family responsibilities.
These outpatient groups offer a continuation of the same trauma-informed, holistic care provided in residential treatment and are ideal for people transitioning out of inpatient care or seeking a structured yet manageable level of support close to home.
While individual therapy focuses on personal one-on-one work with a clinician, group therapy provides the added benefits of community, peer learning, and collective healing.
In dual diagnosis group therapy, individuals gain insight not just from the facilitator, but also from fellow participants who understand the dual struggle of managing mental health and addiction.
This shared space allows for increased accountability, emotional connection, and a deeper understanding of common patterns.

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