If you are struggling with substance abuse, counseling can be a great tool in your recovery. A licensed substance abuse counselor can help you understand your addiction to alcohol and drugs and where it stems from.
At Spokane Heights, our therapists work with you to build the skills and coping mechanisms you need to maintain long-term sobriety. If you are ready to start your recovery journey, we are here to help.
What Is a Substance Abuse Counselor?
A certified substance abuse counselor is a mental health professional who specializes in helping those struggling with addiction. They do this by providing the guidance, support, and strategies necessary to achieve and maintain sobriety.
There are several roles and responsibilities that a substance abuse therapist may fulfill, including:
- Assessment: This includes evaluating the client’s addiction history, severity, and underlying contributing factors.
- Treatment planning: Therapists also develop personalized treatment plans based on individual needs. This includes therapy techniques, medication management, and support group recommendations.
- Counseling: This includes providing individual and group therapy sessions. These can help address emotional, behavioral, and cognitive issues related to addiction.
- Relapse prevention: Therapists teach clients coping mechanisms and relapse prevention strategies. These can be crucial for maintaining sobriety in the long term.
- Referrals: Many counselors will also connect clients with additional resources. This can include support groups, rehabilitation programs, or medical professionals.
Substance abuse counselors work in various settings, including rehabilitation centers, hospitals, private practices, and even community-based organizations. For those struggling with addiction, it is best to seek therapy as a part of a comprehensive treatment program.
Substances of Abuse
Substances of abuse are any substances that can lead to addiction or dependency. It is important to note that the effects and risks of substance abuse can vary. Factors such as the individual, the substance, and the amount used can all play a role in the risk of addiction.
Some of the most common substances people seek treatment for include:
Alcohol
Alcohol abuse is a pattern of drinking alcohol that interferes with a person’s life. It can have a serious negative impact on a person’s physical and mental health, as well as their relationships and various other areas of their life.
Counseling can be a highly effective tool for overcoming alcohol abuse. It provides a safe and supportive environment to explore the underlying causes of their drinking. In doing so, they are able to develop coping mechanisms and learn healthier ways to manage stress and emotions.
Opioids
Opioid abuse refers to the excessive use of opioids. These are a class of drugs that include prescription painkillers (e.g., OxyContin, Percocet) and illegal drugs like heroin. Opioid abuse is highly dangerous, as it can lead to addiction, overdose, and death.
Like with alcohol abuse, counseling can help individuals identify the underlying reasons for their opioid use. Whether this be underlying health conditions, external stress, or any other reason, therapy can help them cope and lead healthier lives.
Stimulants
Stimulant addiction refers to the compulsive, uncontrollable desire to use substances such as cocaine, amphetamines, nicotine, and caffeine. Stimulant abuse can do serious damage to a person’s life and well-being, especially if left untreated.
Counseling can be a crucial treatment tool for those struggling with stimulant addiction. It can help people understand how their substance abuse started and develop the tools they need to achieve long-term recovery.
Benzodiazepines
Benzodiazepines are a class of prescription drugs often used to treat anxiety, insomnia, and seizures. Despite their medical uses, however, benzodiazepines can be highly addictive. This risk is significantly increased when used without a valid prescription from a doctor.
Because benzodiazepine abuse commonly co-occurs with other mental health conditions, counseling is an important part of its treatment. A licensed substance abuse therapist can help individuals understand their mental health symptoms. They can also help them build healthier methods for dealing with stress and anxiety.
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What Is Substance Abuse Counseling Like?
Substance abuse counseling is a specialized form of therapy designed to help those struggling with addiction. It uses different therapeutic tools and skills to help people overcome their dependence on substances.
Counseling provides a safe and supportive environment for recovering individuals. With this space, they can explore the underlying causes of their addiction. This provides them with the opportunity to develop healthy coping mechanisms and managing skills.
Evidence-based Psychotherapies
Evidence-based psychotherapies are scientifically proven treatment approaches for addressing various mental health conditions. These therapies are based on rigorous research and empirical data. This has helped to ensure their treatment efficiency and reliability.
There are several evidence-based psychotherapies that have proven to be effective in treating addiction, including:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET)
- Contingency Management (CM)
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
It is important to note that the most effective treatment approach may vary depending on your specific situation. Our qualified mental health professionals can help determine the most appropriate therapies for your needs.
Holistic Treatments
Holistic therapies can be a great complementary approach to traditional treatment methods. These therapies focus on treating the whole person. This means they address both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction.
There are several common holistic therapies used for treating addiction, including:
- Yoga and Meditation
- Acupuncture
- Massage Therapy
- Nutrition and Diet
- Art Therapy
- Music Therapy
- Equine Therapy
How Do Substance Abuse Counselors Support Recovery?
Substance abuse counselors play a crucial role in supporting addiction recovery. Providing a safe, supportive environment and offering a variety of therapeutic techniques gives individuals their best chance at recovery.
There are several ways that an alcohol and substance abuse counselor can support recovery, including:
Personalized Treatment Plans
Counselors create personalized treatment plans tailored to each client’s needs. They take into consideration each contributing factor to a person’s addiction. This can include the type of substance, severity of addiction, and any co-occurring mental health conditions. By taking every aspect into account, counselors can create the most comprehensive recovery plan possible.
Relapse Prevention Techniques
Relapse prevention is a crucial component of substance abuse treatment. It involves equipping individuals with strategies to identify and manage triggers, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and anticipate potential challenges. Here are some common relapse prevention techniques used in therapy:
Support and Guidance
One of the biggest benefits of substance abuse counseling is the support and guidance a therapist is able to provide those struggling with addiction. By conversing with an unbiased and understanding professional, individuals can explore the underlying reasons for their substance abuse.
Once these are discovered, they can work with their therapist to develop healthy coping skills. Therapists can also help recommend support groups and additional recovery services that can help with the individual’s recovery.
Life Skills Training
Life skills training is an integral component of substance abuse counseling. It equips individuals with the necessary tools and skills to maintain their sobriety. With these skills, they are able to lead healthy, fulfilling lives on their own.
The skills taught in substance abuse counseling are essential for coping with the challenges of recovery. They allow people to make healthy choices, build strong relationships, and stay committed to their sobriety in the long term.
Can a Substance Abuse Counselor Help Me Get Sober?
If you are struggling with addiction, it is important to find a therapist for substance abuse. At Spokane Heights, our team of licensed healthcare professionals strives to provide the best care possible. We work with you one-on-one to ensure your treatment process is personalized and comprehensive from start to end.
How Long Is Substance Abuse Counseling?
The duration of substance abuse counseling can vary significantly depending on several factors. This can include your individual needs, the severity of your addiction, and your specific treatment program.
Each person’s situation is unique. This means that your counseling process will need to be tailored to your specific circumstances. At Spokane Heights, your counseling experience may take place through several different levels of care. These can include:
- Inpatient Substance Abuse Treatment
- Outpatient Programs for Substance Abuse
- Aftercare for Substance Abuse
Levels of Care for Substance Abuse
There are several levels of care offered through our comprehensive treatment program. We provide a full continuum of care to ensure our guests receive the best treatment possible. By completing a step-down treatment approach, we ensure you are properly supported throughout the entirety of your recovery journey.
Inpatient Substance Abuse Treatment
Our residential inpatient program helps our guests re-establish the basics of sober living. This includes teaching them effective life skills, stress management, and emotional support. Inpatient care typically Follows our medical detox program. Through our residential program, we introduce our guests to intensive therapy and a better way of living.
Outpatient Programs for Substance Abuse
Our outpatient program provides a continuation of support for recovering individuals. Following detox and residential treatment, our outpatient program provides additional assistance to those transitioning back into independent sobriety.
There are several drug and alcohol treatment components involved in our outpatient program. From evidence-based and holistic therapies to medication management and more, our addiction counselors provide everything you need to maintain your day-to-day life and sobriety.
Aftercare for Substance Abuse
In our effort to provide evidence-based and comprehensive care, we provide a full range of aftercare services. During this 12-week program, you will have access to several support services and recovery tools.
From continuing therapy to participating in support groups, you will be able to build a sense of community and understanding in your recovery. If you are ready to learn more about how our treatment programs can help, reach out to our substance abuse and mental health counselors today.
