Addiction is a complex condition that requires comprehensive treatment. Treating only the physical aspect of addiction isn’t enough to lead to lasting recovery. People must receive treatment for the physical, behavioral, emotional, and other aspects of substance abuse as well.

Addiction counseling is a fundamental aspect of comprehensive addiction treatment programs. This article will explore how substance abuse counseling can support long-term recovery.

If you or someone you love struggle with substance use disorder (SUD), you are not alone. Contact The Best Treatment specialists to learn about our addiction and mental health treatment programs. Reach out to our intake team with questions or to schedule an intake appointment.

What is Addiction Counseling?

Therapy is a fundamental aspect of comprehensive addiction treatment. Addiction counseling involves working with a certified addiction counselor to address the roots of substance abuse. Therapists who specialize in treating SUD may use a variety of techniques while working with people in addiction recovery.

Some of the goals of addiction counseling include:

• Reducing destructive thoughts and behaviors
• Improving communications
• Helping people improve their relationships
• Helping people understand their behaviors and motivations
• Identifying and addressing mental health issues
• Educating and supporting family members, when appropriate

Addiction and mental health counselors work closely with their clients to address the roots of substance abuse. Counselors may also facilitate support groups.

Some of the techniques addiction counselors use include:

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT)
• Matrix model
• Contingency model

These and other therapeutic approaches can help people address the physical, emotional, and behavioral parts of substance abuse.

What to Expect in Addiction Counseling

Rehab facilities may offer addiction counseling as part of people’s comprehensive treatment plans. People may attend regular therapy sessions throughout the detox and stabilization process. Many people continue to engage in addiction therapy as part of their aftercare plan.

Individual and group therapy are critical aspects of a holistic addiction treatment plan. In addition to therapy, people may participate in other evidence-based therapies, including:

• Medication management
• Mental health treatment
• Relapse prevention education
• Coping skills
• Nutrition support, art therapy, mindfulness, yoga, and other holistic therapies

Mental health practitioners may offer addiction counseling at every level of care, including:

• Medical detox programs
• Inpatient/residential treatment programs
• Partial hospitalization programs (PHP)
• Intensive outpatient programs (IOP)
• Outpatient rehab

People may attend sessions during rehab or on an individual basis. Practitioners may offer addiction counseling in inpatient and outpatient rehab programs, clinics, private practices, community centers, and other settings.

What are the Benefits of Drug and Alcohol Counseling?

Participating in counseling is beneficial at every step of your recovery. Here are some of the most significant benefits of addiction therapy.

Reduce the risk of relapse

Counseling can help you identify your triggers, learn new ways to cope with challenges, and connect with local recovery resources. These and other practical aspects of therapy can help to reduce your risk of relapsing.

Reduce isolation

Addiction can be isolating and lonely. Many people live with feelings of anger, shame, guilt, or anxiety as they navigate the earliest days of recovery.

Connecting with a drug and alcohol counselor can help to reduce isolation. Developing good self-care routines, including attending therapy, can help to structure your life in recovery. It can also help you to improve your communication skills and lead to healthier relationships in the future.

Get to the root of substance abuse

Lasting addiction recovery requires learning about what led to substance abuse. Working with a therapist can help you to identify and understand the roots of your drug or alcohol use. Then, you can develop healthy coping skills to prevent relapse.

How to Find the Best Addiction Counselor

There are several ways to find the best addiction counselor. You may:

• Ask your doctor or mental health provider for referrals
• Search online for local addiction therapists
• Contact local recovery support groups for information about local counselors
• Reach out to your insurance company to find in-network counselors
• Contact the intake specialists at The Best Treatment

Drug and alcohol counseling can help you process feelings and experiences. It can give you valuable tools that support long-term recovery and connect you to local recovery resources. Contact The Best Treatment specialists to learn more about finding the best drug and alcohol counselor.

Find The Best Drug and Alcohol Counselor

Drug and alcohol abuse can affect every part of your life. It can be hard to overcome addiction, but getting the right treatment and support can help.

Reach out to The Best Treatment specialists to learn about finding the best drug and alcohol counselor. You can also explore our other treatment and recovery programs. Contact us with questions or to schedule an intake appointment.