Overcoming an addictive habit is a major accomplishment. A detox program begins the long-term battle against cravings and relapse, but full recovery also includes substance abuse counseling.

As an essential part of treatment, counseling comes in many forms. Assessing the impact of emotional and/or psychological problems is part of developing the right treatment plan. You may participate in family counseling, cognitive behavioral therapy, or other approaches to recovery.

The Importance of Substance Abuse Counseling

Medication reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms. However, undoing addictive behaviors requires rewiring your brain. This eliminates things that may cause depression or stress. Additionally, disassociating with people who encourage use is necessary to minimize the chance of relapse.

Licensed therapists and counselors use different techniques to helping you recover. These techniques can help undo conditioned learning and brain changes that often lead to addiction.

Counseling serves many purposes, including:

• Uncovering the root of your addiction
• Identifying co-occurring mental issues
• Achieving a positive self-image and self-esteem
• Learning important life skills
• Dealing with peer pressure
• Learning positive habits

Typically, individual and group counseling are part of treatment plans. Some forms are tailored to meet the needs of specific populations. For example, 18–25-year-old young adults often have different needs than older adults.

It’s important to connect with compassionate, personalized, professional and affordable treatment. Assessing the need for counseling helps staff understand the extent and nature of a substance use disorder.

Careful diagnosis paired with appropriate case management helps to ensure successful treatment. Used effectively, screening and assessment tools help match individuals with appropriate services.

Individualized Substance Abuse Counseling

The focus of individualized counseling is to reduce or stop alcohol or drug use. Accomplishing this requires addressing areas related to addictive behaviors. Family relationships, employment status, and social connections are some underlying issues.

Throughout the process, an addiction counselor can point out relevant symptoms of your experience. You can learn techniques to recognize urges and shift them away from using drugs or alcohol. Individual sessions are also a time where you receive motivation and encouragement to achieve abstinence.

Therapy sessions give individuals a chance to set goals and develop coping strategies to abstain from substance abuse. A counselor walks you through setting short-term behavioral goals. Long-term abstinence is essential to avoid setbacks. Referrals for other needed services that support your progress are provided.

Group Substance Abuse Counseling

In addition to individualized therapy sessions, substance abuse programs may also include group counseling. Participating with others who are on similar paths becomes a social reinforcement while pursuing recovery.

Research shows that group therapy with individualized therapy leads to positive outcomes. Peer discussion helps to promote drug-free lifestyles.

Group therapy settings help individuals realize they’re not alone. Sharing experiences can boost a person’s self-esteem and confidence. These sessions also teach individuals to avoid engaging in destructive behaviors. They recognize triggers and practice healthier behaviors.

Substance Abuse Counseling Strengthens Your Commitment to Recovery

The first step on the path to recovery can feel overwhelming. That’s why supportive and caring guidance is crucial when you or a loved one suffers from a substance addiction.

Part of that guidance comes through counseling to help you understand the causes and risk factors of addiction. Certified therapists can help you develop skills, improve relationships, and find the motivation to stay addiction-free.

At Ashley Addiction Treatment facility in Havre de Grace, Maryland, our integrated model includes psychological and psychiatric care that goes beyond detoxing the body. Our multidisciplinary team approach takes care of mental needs.

With specialized addiction treatment therapies, individual and group therapy sessions treat co-occurring disorders such as:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Grief
• Trauma

If you or someone you love suffers from addiction, we are waiting to hear from you. Please know you don’t need to walk this journey alone. Addiction should not control your life. Instead, take control by calling us today at 866-313-6307 to begin your road to recovery.