Addiction counseling is not only for people who have problems with alcohol and drugs. It also is for process addiction disorders such as sex, food, shopping, and gambling addictions.
Could I have an Addiction Problem?
- I’ve tried to stop, but I can’t stay stopped.
- I have withdrawal symptoms when I stop, such as cravings, headaches, moodiness, or poor focus.
- I have increased appetite or insomnia when I try to stop.
- Even though I know there are health consequences, I can’t stop.
- I’ve sacrificed social and/or recreational activities to do addictive behavior instead.
- I ensure I maintain a good supply or “stash” at all times.
- I’ve taken risks such as stealing, having risky sex, or trading my body for substances or a high.
- I feel like I need to do the addictive behavior in order to deal with problems.
- I’ve spent an increasing amount of time and energy focused on my addictive behavior.
- I engage in my addictive behavior in secret.
- I’ve been told I have a problem by more than two people, but I don’t agree.
- I consume substances or engage in the addictive behavior to excess.
- I’ve had problems with the law because of my addictive behavior.
- My addictive behavior has caused me to have financial difficulties.
- I’ve had problems in relationships with family or friends because of my addictive behavior.
If you answered “true” to 2 or more of these, you may benefit from talking with a counselor.
What can you expect from counseling?
Professional counseling involves assessment, referral, individual and group counseling, relapse prevention, and education. Do you prefer being in a group? Drug addiction counseling can be done on an individual and/or group basis.
The aim of therapy:
- Achieve and maintain abstinence (or sober behavior).
- Resolve or reduce problems and improve physical, mental, and spiritual functioning.
- Work towards positive lifestyle change.
Therapeutic Interventions for Addiction and Substance Abuse:
1. Education to enhance understanding related to:
- Addiction
- Effects of drugs and alcohol
- Neurobiology of substance and process addictions
- Recovery process
- Relapse warning signs
- Prevention
2. Life skill training to enhance:
- Coping skills
- Discovering new ways to use leisure time.
- Social connectedness
- Mindfulness
3. Resources to Support:
- Family in recovery
- Treatment recovery
- Developing a sober support system.
- Spirituality
- Self help
- Referral