In 2013 alone, there were an estimated 21.6 million people who had a substance abuse problem. This number makes up 8.2% of the population in the United States. For these individuals, a substance abuse counselor can help.
Counselors are a key part of the recovery process because they help patients to work through the reasons for their addiction. In addition, a substance abuse counselor can help addicted individuals with co-occurring disorders and family counseling.
What Does a Substance Abuse Counselor Do?
A drug abuse counselor is a specialist in treating substance abusers. Patients may be addicted to alcohol or drugs like cocaine and heroine. Often, a drug counselor will work in a rehabilitation center, drug treatment clinic or mental health facility. They must be certified in their state and typically have an advanced degree in the field.
While substance abuse counselors perform many roles, their main purpose is to help patients find the root of their addiction and recovery. They work with each patient to look at past trauma, mental disorders, family situations and other experiences that may fuel the addiction. With their help, patients can begin the process of addiction recovery.
Therapy Options Offered by a Substance Abuse Counselor
When you go to a counselor, you may get help with contingency management, family therapy, motivational interviewing and cognitive-behavioral therapy. In motivational therapy, patients learn how to change their normal habits and begin treatment. Meanwhile, contingency management counseling helps to reinforce the positive changes made in treatment and reward patients for their progress.
Often, patients have social, professional and family problems due to their addiction. Family therapy is offered to help patients heal relationships and address any issues that exist within the family. With cognitive-behavioral therapy, patients learn how to understand and avoid situations that make them more likely to relapse. They learn how to recognize triggers and stop negative thoughts that make them likely to use.
How Does Treatment Work?
Each patient is different, so a counselor will meet with each individual to figure out the treatment options that he or she needs. The counselor will get to know patients and figure out the reasons why they became addicted. Throughout this process, they work to find ways to increase your chances of achieving long-term sobriety. Families are involved in the process and encouraged to learn about preventative techniques. Studies show that family bonding encourages sobriety, so family therapy is a key part of treatment.
No one deserves an addiction. If you or a loved one has a substance abuse problem, you can get help at the Healing Springs Ranch. Our 28-bed facility offers residential care and counseling to help you recover. Our goal is to help you remove your dependency on drugs and work through the causes of your addiction. To find out how we can help, contact us at 866-656-8384.