Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CAADC) Practice Exam

What is a defining characteristic of a closed therapy group?

1. Only new members recommended by current members

2. Only new members who meet preset criteria

3. No new members may join after the group has started

4. New clients can enter freely

The correct answer is: No new members may join after the group has started

A defining characteristic of a closed therapy group is that no new members may join after the group has started. This structure fosters a sense of safety and confidentiality among the group members, allowing for deeper trust and more meaningful interactions as members build relationships over time. The static membership can create a stable environment that encourages vulnerability and the exploration of personal issues without the disruption of new members entering mid-process. In contrast, options suggesting that new members can join based on recommendations or preset criteria do not align with the definition of a closed group, as they imply the potential for changes in membership during the course of the group's development. The option indicating that new clients can enter freely contradicts the very essence of a closed group, where membership is fixed to enhance the therapeutic alliance and group dynamics established at the outset.