At ETHOS Treatment Centers, we believe that effective treatment must acknowledge the unique experiences and needs of each individual. One of the most significant distinctions in how people experience substance use disorder (SUD) is based on gender. Men and women often face different triggers, barriers to treatment, and emotional challenges—and a one-size-fits-all approach may not address these complexities. That’s why ETHOS offers gender-specific groups at our West Chester location, creating safe, focused environments for deeper healing and growth.
How Substance Use Disorder Differs by Gender
Research and clinical experience show that men and women frequently develop SUD for different reasons and experience different consequences as a result. Women are more likely to begin using substances in the context of relationships—whether to cope with trauma, to self-medicate emotional pain, or due to pressure from a partner. They may also experience greater shame, stigma, or fear of losing custody of children, which can prevent them from seeking help.
“Having a safe space where women can speak openly about these issues and meet other women in treatment who struggle with these same barriers and issues is so important,” explains Cait Kish, LPC. “It allows for validating personal experiences and beginning to tear down her barriers to recovery.”
Men, on the other hand, often face social pressure to suppress vulnerability and emotions, which can make it harder to ask for help or engage in treatment. They may be more likely to use substances to manage anger, stress, or feelings of inadequacy and may have difficulty opening up in mixed-gender therapeutic settings.
The Role of Gender-Specific Groups in Recovery
By offering gender-specific groups, ETHOS creates spaces that are intentionally tailored to these different lived experiences. These groups provide individuals with a sense of safety and solidarity, free from judgment or the pressure to conform to traditional gender roles. Clients are better able to explore the emotional roots of their substance use and begin the work of relational repair and self-discovery.
For women, this might include discussions around trauma, motherhood, self-worth, and boundaries. “We discuss ways to break people-pleasing patterns and find self-empowerment,” Kish says. “I use techniques and concepts from an Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Polyvagal Theory, as well as Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) in group. This approach can improve self-concept, increase self-efficacy, and provide a safe space to further explore and heal issues specific to women in recovery.”
For men, it often involves building emotional literacy, exploring masculinity and vulnerability, and addressing fatherhood or relationship roles. In both cases, the gender-specific format fosters honesty, accountability, and connection.
Focusing on Relationships and Family Dynamics
Many people who seek treatment at ETHOS struggle with the ripple effects of addiction in their relationships—with partners, parents, children, or friends. Gender-specific groups allow for meaningful work on these interpersonal dynamics. Whether it’s processing past relationship trauma, rebuilding trust, or learning new communication skills, our groups support clients in understanding and reshaping the relational patterns that contribute to substance use.
Family roles and expectations also tend to differ by gender. A woman may feel overwhelming guilt about being unavailable for her children, while a man may feel ashamed of not living up to the role of provider or protector. In a supportive, gender-aware setting, clients can begin to confront these roles and redefine their place within their families and communities.
Available at Our West Chester Location
ETHOS Treatment Centers is proud to offer gender-specific treatment groups at our West Chester location. These groups are a vital part of our person-centered approach and offer clients the insight, support, and safety needed to make lasting change.
Ready to take the next step?
Contact ETHOS today to learn more about our gender-specific programs at our West Chester location, and how we can help you or your loved one begin the journey to recovery. Email us at info@ethostreatment.com or call 267-669-0300.
About Ethos Treatment
Ethos Treatment LLC is a behavioral healthcare provider accredited by The Joint Commission to treat mental health conditions and substance use disorders. Licensed clinicians lead Intensive Outpatient Programs in Pennsylvania via telehealth and at seven locations: Broomall, Collegeville, Jenkintown, Philadelphia, Plymouth Meeting, West Chester and Wyomissing. Ethos accepts most insurance.