If you or someone you love has substance abuse issues, you may be wondering what kind of counseling techniques are used to help towards recovery. While there are varying methods used, here are five substance counseling techniques that will help you become familiar with what all is involved in treatment.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Known as CBT, cognitive behavioral therapy is one of the most popular used therapies in substance abuse recovery. Think of it as counseling that allows you or a loved one to cope with stressors or triggers that may induce wanted to abuse. It allows you more coping mechanisms and the ability to handle relapse situations better.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing
Commonly shortened to EMDR, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing is a type of psychotherapy based on the belief that disturbing memories are at the root of many mental disorders. Its goal is to reduce the effects of upsetting memories by teaching clients better ways of coping.
How it works is that the past, present, and future is the focus and particularly in memories that are disturbing or events that shape us. It utilizes what is known as BLS, bilateral stimulation. This is where the patient thinks of an event or action that is disturbing to them. They are then led through a bilateral stimulation such as eye tracking movements. This is meant for the patient to associate the images with situations that are less stressful or less upsetting.
Family and Group Counseling
Family and group counseling is important in a number of ways. One reason according to NCBI:
Eventually, almost all clients with substance use disorders can benefit from some form of family therapy, because the educational sessions for families that are commonly used in substance abuse treatment settings are not always sufficient to bring about necessary, lasting systemic changes in the client’s family relationships. A number of factors will influence a decision about the types and relative intensity of treatment the client should receive. The client’s level of recovery may have the greatest effect on her ability to participate both in substance abuse treatment and family therapy, as well as the usefulness of that therapy for all members of the family.
Those who have support from their families and peers have better-coping skills and a better support system.
Experiential Therapies
Experiential therapies encompass an array of therapy options. What they are is a technique is a way to release negative thoughts and memories and allow for new, more positive experiences. Examples include:
- Music Therapy. This is a way to engage your mind into something positive and comforting that is not conducive to relapse or abuse. Whether it’s poetry, rap music, or the spoken word – music shapes our thoughts and lives and in a positive setting, this is very beneficial to the patient.
- Adventure Therapy. Much like music therapy, adventure therapy creates positive experiences. It can be a therapeutic kayak trip, swimming, horseback riding, and more.
- Social Interaction and Recreation. Following the same vein, social interaction and recreation gives you the ability to interact with others and enjoy what you are doing without drugs or alcohol. This recreational environment includes a wealth of activities. From yoga and spending the day at the beach to cooking classes and exercise, it is a fun way to be with others, having a good time, and all without using.
Holistic Therapy
Another approach to therapy is considered a supplemental one and that is a holistic therapy. In order for the mind to work as well as possible, it is important for the body to be in shape as well. Through the use of tailored for the client several vitamins, minerals, oils, and amino acids are the starts of this program. The other part of holistic therapy is nutrition. Patients are given a nutrient-rich diet containing the exact amount of fats, carbohydrates, and proteins needed for the individual.
All of this is done with a registered dietician and nutritionist and each program, as mentioned, is customized for the client so that they get what they need. There is an evaluation each week that measures the patient’s dopamine and serotonin levels to see how well the program is working for them since both serotonin and dopamine regulate many things including sleep, sexual desire, memory, learning, and more.
These five substance abuse counseling techniques are not all that are used within a counseling program. Yet, they are a good example of what is available to ensure the best road to recovery.
Our Accreditations
