To overcome a drug or alcohol addiction, counseling is a big part of successful recovery. There are many forms of counseling that allow patients to put an end to substance abuse. Therefore, if you or a loved one is enrolled in a rehab program, you’ll likely receive addiction counseling. Before doing so, it is essential to know what you can expect from addiction counseling and how it can help you achieve lasting recovery.
Exploring the Root of Addiction
One of the major objectives of addiction counseling is identifying the cause of problematic behavior. On the surface, addiction develops when individuals abuse substances. However, it goes beyond just this.
Often, addiction is genetic. This might explain why the disease seems to run in families.
Additionally, a history of trauma could also cause a substance use disorder. For example, living through a natural disaster, witnessing a crime, or experiencing abuse can contribute to the likelihood of substance abuse developing. Certain mental health disorders like depression and anxiety may also increase these chances. In addiction counseling, therapists work to explore and resolve these issues.
Educating Family Members About Addiction Counseling
Although those struggling with addiction are the primary focus during counseling, their loved ones and family members also have the opportunity to participate. Heavy family involvement provides optimal support on the road to lasting recovery. In counseling, family members learn more about addiction as a disease.
Overall, this means understanding how addiction develops. It is important to separate addiction from ideas of morality or choice. In many ways, addiction is a disease like any other. Being aware of this helps loved ones understand how to be more supportive in the future.
Restoring Damaged Relationships
Counseling also rebuilds relationships that suffer because of addiction. For example, when teens and young adults battle substance abuse, parents start to feel isolated. However, counseling brings loved ones together for the necessary support struggling family members require.
Treating Behavioral Issues
A staggering number of individuals struggle with both substance abuse and mental health disorders. Often, untreated mental health conditions lead to substance abuse and vice versa. Fortunately, counseling can address and treat behavioral issues.
This often means treating mental health issues like depression or anxiety. In other cases, it involves focusing on negative behavioral patterns. For example, mindfulness, meditation, and stress management techniques are three effective ways to improve behavior.
Making Plans to Fight Back Against Relapse
Relapse can impact many people who complete addiction treatment. Therefore, one of the best ways to reduce relapse risk is by preparing for inevitable cravings and temptations. In counseling, therapists can work with patients to create custom coping strategies for preventing relapse.
Finding the Right Addiction Counselor
Finally, there are several important factors to consider when determining whether an addiction counselor is right for you. Among the questions you should ask are:
- Is the addiction counselor I am considering licensed in the state in which they are practicing?
- Do I trust the addiction counselor I am considering to provide the guidance I need?
- One of the first steps in addiction therapy is establishing goals together with your addiction counselor. Are these goals clear? If not, you may want to seek the help of someone else.
Not every addiction counselor is right for every patient. It is essential that you find the person that is right for you.
Addiction Counseling at Zelus Recovery
At Zelus Recovery, substance abuse programs help teens and young adults take control of their lives. A comprehensive range of treatment methods ensures that recovery is long-lasting and successful. These methods may include:
• Family therapy
• Dual diagnosis support
• Individual therapy
• Behavioral therapy
• Learning coping skills
Addiction counseling is the foundation of lasting addiction treatment. Above all, our goal is to help teens, young adults, and their families find peace, health, and fulfillment. Call 208.518.0797, or contact us at your earliest convenience to begin overcoming addiction with our help.