Addiction Counseling
My counseling career began in helping those to recover and find sobriety. I myself am a survivor of addiction. Twenty-four years sober this year. I remember the feeling I had when I was looking for an internship site in grad school. I was hell-bent on not working in a treatment center for fear of being triggered by my traumatic past. However, I chose to work in treatment and it is one of the proudest decisions I have made personally and professionally. Working alongside individuals who were courageous enough to face their biggest fears and better themselves is something I hold dear to my heart. I would be honored to walk alongside you in your journey and can assure you it will be free from judgment and full of hope.
Embarking on a journey toward recovery and choosing addiction counseling is a commendable and courageous step. It's essential to be well-versed in how this therapy works to prepare yourself for what's ahead. The realm of addiction counseling is multi-faceted and personalized to suit different needs and circumstantial intricacies.
Nonetheless, there are some shared elements in the process of managing addictions through therapy. Let's get some insights into what to expect during addiction counseling.
"Remember, the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step."
Assessment: The counseling process begins with a comprehensive evaluation and assessment to understand your addiction's extent and the underlying factors that might have led to it. This will guide the therapeutic journey and tailor an effective treatment plan for you.
Therapeutic Connection: A vital aspect of addiction counseling is the therapeutic connection between you and your counselor. This relationship is crucial because it forms the foundation for trust and open communication, facilitating effective therapy.
Evidence-Based Approaches: Addiction counseling incorporates various evidence-based therapeutic approaches such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Motivational Interviewing, amongst others.
Education: As an addiction counselor I will also help you understand the impact of substance abuse on your physical and mental health, empowering you with knowledge that can aid your recovery.
Aftercare Planning: Towards the end of your therapy, I will assist you in creating an aftercare plan to prevent relapse and ensure continued recovery after the formal counseling is completed.
One crucial aspect of addiction counseling is the understanding that recovery is a lifelong journey, not a destination. This means that counseling may be a long-term process, requiring patience, perseverance, and a strong support system. Though it might sound daunting, remember that you're not alone - I will be there to guide and support you every step of the way.
Be prepared to delve deep into your personal life and history during counseling sessions. They're often emotionally intense, as therapists seek to uncover the root causes of your addiction. But remember, this is a necessary part of the healing process. By understanding your motivations, you can learn to manage cravings and prevent relapses.
Understanding and tackling addiction is no easy task, but with the right help - and the right mindset - it's certainly achievable. So, if you're battling addiction and need help, know that addiction counseling could be a critical step on your path to recovery.
NOTE: Addiction counseling is most successful for those who have gone through the detox process and are actively working a recovery program. Please do not hesitate to contact me to discuss guidelines for treatment planning.