Substance abuse and mental health conditions are complex and can be challenging to overcome. However, getting comprehensive treatment and ongoing support can help people work toward long-term recovery.
Counseling is one of the most important aspects of comprehensive addiction treatment programs. Participating in therapy can help people identify and address mental health disorders, behavioral issues, and beliefs that contribute to substance abuse.
This article will explore what to expect from substance abuse counseling in Fort Pierce. You will learn:
- The benefits of addiction therapy
- What to expect during counseling
- How to use counseling in your recovery journey
- Where to find addiction therapy in Fort Pierce
If you or someone you love lives with substance abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Contact the specialists at Agape Behavioral Center to explore our recovery services and treatment programs.
What is Substance Abuse Counseling?
Substance abuse counseling is an evidence-based component of comprehensive addiction treatment services. Counseling may include several types of support, including:
- Individual therapy sessions
- Family therapy and support
- Group therapy
- Relapse prevention education
- Learning and practicing coping skills
- Connections to community support, including 12-step programs and mental health services
Individuals and families who participate in substance abuse counseling receive valuable information, support, and connections as they navigate substance use disorder (SUD).
Substance abuse counseling is available in residential treatment centers, outpatient rehab centers, mental health treatment facilities, community centers, private practices, and other settings. People may participate in substance abuse counseling as part of an addiction recovery plan or on an individual basis.
What are the Benefits of Substance Abuse Counseling?
Addiction is a complex condition. Addiction and mental health experts believe that many factors may contribute to substance abuse and addiction, including:
- A person’s genetics
- Behaviors
- The environment someone lives in
- Family history
- History of trauma
- Emotions
Because addiction is so complex, it requires comprehensive treatment. Substance abuse counseling is part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
Here are some of the most significant benefits of participating in substance abuse therapy.
Less risk of relapse
Research shows that participating in comprehensive treatment, including counseling, can reduce the risk of relapse. Addiction counseling helps people address the source of substance abuse and learn effective coping skills to reduce the risk of a relapse.
A supportive community
Addiction can feel lonely. People may become isolated. Participating in counseling provides regular support and a community of peers and professionals to rely on. Therapy gives people a non-judgmental environment where they can process emotions, connect with others, and find valuable support.
Address the roots of addiction
A holistic drug and alcohol rehab program can help people identify what contributed to their substance abuse. Instead of simply learning skills to stop using addictive substances, people work to identify the deep roots of their addiction. This can lead to longer-lasting and more meaningful recovery.
Substance abuse counseling is a critical component of a recovery program. People may participate in counseling during treatment in a recovery center and afterward.
What to Expect During Addiction Counseling
You may begin attending counseling sessions during a rehab program. You may participate in regular sessions during any level of treatment, including:
- Inpatient or residential treatment programs
- Partial hospitalization programs (PHP)
- Intensive outpatient programs (IOP)
- Outpatient rehab
- Aftercare programs
During sessions, you will work with a licensed mental health provider. You may work with your therapist individually or as a group. Many addiction treatment plans include individual, family, and group sessions.
Common goals of substance abuse counseling include:
- Identifying triggers and developing strategies to manage or avoid them
- Learning effective ways to reduce stress and cope with challenges
- Identifying and addressing trauma
- Learning about addiction as a disease
- Developing healthy coping skills and relapse prevention strategies
- Processing emotions and experiences
- Learning about other forms of community support and treatment
Each person has unique needs and experiences in recovery. Your therapist will work with you to create the most effective treatment plan possible based on your needs.
How Does Counseling Fit Into Recovery?
Substance abuse counseling can be part of any recovery plan. People may start attending therapy sessions as part of an addiction treatment plan. They may begin counseling during a medical detox program and continue throughout their recovery.
Recovering from addiction is a lifelong process. People must stay engaged in their recovery after completing a rehab program.
You may participate in counseling at any stage of your recovery journey. You may attend therapy sessions independently or as part of an addiction treatment program. People may apply the skills they learn during counseling sessions at any stage of their addiction recovery.
Find Substance Abuse Therapy in Fort Pierce
If you or someone you love struggles with substance abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Effective, compassionate treatment is available at Agape Behavioral Center. Contact our intake specialists to find the right level of care to meet your needs. Learn about our programs, verify your insurance, or schedule an appointment by reaching out to our team now.
