People across the world struggle with addiction every day. Most experience shame and guilt associated with addiction. Many hide their drug, alcohol, or other dependencies from loved ones. People living with addiction may have trouble connecting with loved ones, communicating, and sustaining relationships, leading to isolation. Addiction treatment therapies can help. With tools ranging from cognitive-behavioral therapy to dialectical behavior therapy,
If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, don’t wait. Seek treatment today. Both government-funded and private programs are ready to help.
What Is Addiction Counseling?
Addiction counseling encompasses many types of therapy. Most addiction treatment programs combine individual, group, and family therapy for holistic healing. These therapies can help people improve relationships, understand addiction triggers, and change their thoughts and behavior. They can help clients heal from childhood trauma and adult wounds that lead to addiction.
There are many types of addiction counseling. Some common counseling programs include:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy
- EMDR
- Trauma-informed counseling
- Art therapy
- Movement therapy
- Psychoanalysis
- Rational emotive behavioral therapy
- Dialectical behavioral therapy
- Equine and large animal therapy
- Medical detox
Everyone responds to counseling differently. Some people work well in groups, while others thrive with one-on-one analysis. Successful rehab programs incorporate multiple types of therapy to meet an individual’s needs. Many people do not know what types of therapy will make the most significant difference.
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy vs. Dialectical Behavior Therapy
Cognitive-behavioral (CBT) and dialectical behavioral (DBT) therapies are the two most popular approaches to addiction counseling. Most reputable programs throughout the program use one or both methods. CBT focuses on behavior, so therapists help clients change their behavior and thought patterns gradually. DBT focuses on emotions. Therefore, in DBT sessions, clients learn to regulate, understand, and manage their emotions. Dialectical behavior therapy is a form of cognitive-behavioral therapy often used for treating suicidal ideation.
Both forms of therapy are highly successful for addiction recovery. They are especially effective for clients struggling with dual diagnoses. Over 50% of people in addiction recovery also struggle with co-occurring mental health disorders. CBT and DBT can help diagnose, treat, and mitigate symptoms of co-occurring disorders. They also help clients understand the relationship between mental health and addiction. Therapists help clients manage daily stress, addiction triggers, and relationships.
Is Addiction Counseling Right for Me?
Most recovery programs require addiction counseling because it works. Therapies like CBT and DBT might be right for you if:
- You feel alone in your addiction
- You’re experiencing strained relationships
- You struggle with guilt, shame, and blame
- You have trouble managing and expressing emotions
- You’ve survived domestic abuse, sexual assault, or traumatic injury
- You’ve survived a natural disaster or collective traumatic event
- You crave consistency in relationships
- You like to talk about your problems with professionals
- You’re ready for change
- You respond well to advice
- You are open to trying new things
Both cognitive-behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy help clients over months and years to identify triggers, change patterns, and regain control of their lives. Most therapy sessions last between an hour to 90 minutes. For people in recovery programs, addiction counseling might occur daily. Clients post-rehab may see their therapist a few times a week, once a week, and eventually a few times a month. Over time, therapists set clients up for strong, independent lives. Just like addiction, addiction counseling takes things one day at a time.
Find Addiction Counseling Near You Today
Many people try to overcome addiction alone. Unfortunately, quitting cold turkey, hiding substance abuse, and denying help rarely works. Addiction counseling can. If you or someone in your life is struggling with addiction, get help today. Find the right addiction treatment program in your area through local and national addiction resources. We are stronger together.
