Addiction Councelling
While a detox is the best way to initially get you off the substance that your addicted to, ongoing rehab therapy is the only way to ensure you stay clean. Read on to find out about one of the most powerful tools available to someone trying to beat addiction – addiction counselling
What Is Addiction Counselling?
Addiction counselling can prove very effective and helpful in overcoming addiction to alcohol, drug addiction or a process addiction (an activity or behavioural addiction: ie eating disorders, gambling addiction, gaming addiction, co-dependency, sex and love addictions, etc).
Counselling is a very flexible form of addiction treatment where a qualified Addiction Counsellor helps to unearth the root causes of common addictions and heal them. They can also assist in changing the mindset that accompanies addiction, helping to improve your mental and physical health.
Addiction is a disease of the brain and is centred on the individual’s neural pathways and thinking; this then manifests in compulsive behaviours of which they have little or no control.
Counselling can make a huge difference to anyone. There is certainly evidence to suggest that anyone and everyone can benefit from counselling whether they are an addict or not.
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Types of Counselling That Treat Addiction
There are many different approaches to counselling treatment options available. An addiction therapist will usually use a number of approaches for optimum effect throughout the recovery process.
Here are some common types of counselling used to effectively treat alcohol and drug abuse or other addictions.
CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy)
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a widely used therapeutic approach that focuses on the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. It is a goal-oriented and evidence-based form of psychotherapy that helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviours that contribute to emotional distress and problematic outcomes.
Key principles of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy include:
Cognitive Restructuring:
This involves identifying and challenging irrational or negative thoughts and beliefs. Clients learn to replace these with more realistic and positive ones, which can lead to changes in emotional reactions and behaviours; key factors during the process of addiction recovery.
Behavioural Activation:
CBT often involves setting specific, achievable goals and gradually increasing activities that bring a sense of accomplishment. This helps individuals overcome feelings of lethargy or hopelessness associated with depression or other mental health issues.
Problem-Solving:
CBT teaches individuals effective problem-solving skills to cope with life’s challenges and stressors. This involves breaking down problems into manageable parts and developing practical solutions.
Mindfulness:
Some forms of CBT incorporate mindfulness techniques to help individuals become more aware of their thoughts and emotions without judgement. Mindfulness can promote self-awareness and emotional regulation.
CBT is used to treat a variety of mental health conditions, including anxiety disorders, depression, phobias, eating disorders, and substance abuse. It is typically a short-term, focused addiction therapy that is often structured with specific goals and homework assignments between sessions.
This popular therapy has demonstrated effectiveness in numerous research studies and is recommended by mental health professionals worldwide as an effective treatment for substance abuse and addiction issues.
DBT( Dialectical Behavioural Therapy)
With Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, or DBT, the emphasis is on building a strong therapeutic working relationship with the counsellor so that a very personalised and in-depth approach can be used in addressing behaviour.
DBT is a type of cognitive-behavioural therapy which can help people with various mental health conditions characterised by emotional dysregulation, impulsive behaviour, and difficulties in interpersonal relationships.
DBT is rooted in the dialectical philosophy, which emphasises the integration of opposites. In the context of therapy, this means balancing acceptance and change. The main components of DBT are:
Distress Tolerance:
This component focuses on helping individuals develop healthy coping mechanisms for managing distressing situations without resorting to harmful or impulsive behaviours. It includes strategies like distraction techniques, self-soothing activities, and acceptance of the current situation when change is not immediately possible.
Emotion Regulation:
DBT helps individuals identify and understand their emotions, develop strategies for regulating intense emotions, and build a more balanced and stable emotional life. This involves learning to recognize and label emotions, understand the function of emotions, and implement effective emotion regulation techniques.
Interpersonal Effectiveness:
This component addresses difficulties in interpersonal relationships. Individuals learn skills for effective communication, assertiveness, and navigating conflicts while maintaining self-respect and relationship boundaries. The goal is to improve relationships and build a support network, making this an excellent treatment for guiding those susceptible to addictive behaviours through the recovery process.
The comprehensive nature of DBT, with its emphasis on acceptance and change, mindfulness, and interpersonal effectiveness, makes it a valuable therapeutic approach for individuals struggling with emotional dysregulation and challenging life circumstances
Integrated Counselling Therapy
Integrated Counselling Therapy typically refers to an approach that incorporates various therapeutic techniques and methods from different theoretical orientations. The goal is to create a personalised and flexible treatment plan that addresses the unique needs of an individual or a group of individuals. This integration may involve combining elements from different established counselling or psychotherapeutic approaches.
The idea behind integrated counselling is to draw on the strengths of different therapeutic models, adapting them to the specific context and needs of the client. This approach recognizes that individuals are unique, and a one-size-fits-all method may not be the most effective way to address the complexity of human experiences and challenges.
Integrated counselling may involve the blending of techniques from cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, humanistic therapy, and other therapeutic modalities. The therapist may tailor the treatment based on the client’s presenting issues, personality, preferences, and cultural background.
Key features of Integrated Counselling Therapy may include:
Eclecticism:
Integrating interventions and strategies from various therapeutic models based on what is most effective for the client’s specific needs.
Holistic Approach:
Considering the client’s physical, emotional, social, and spiritual aspects, recognizing that various factors contribute to overall well-being.
Flexibility:
Being open to adapting the therapeutic approach as the client progresses or as new issues emerge.
Collaboration:
Involving the client in the therapeutic process and decision-making, fostering a collaborative and empowering relationship.
Cultural Sensitivity:
Recognising and respecting cultural diversity, tailoring the therapeutic approach to be inclusive and relevant to the client’s cultural background.
It’s important to note that while integrated counselling can be effective, the success of therapy often depends on the skills and expertise of the therapist, as well as the compatibility of the chosen methods with the client’s needs. Therapists practising integrated counselling should have a solid understanding of different therapeutic approaches and be able to apply them in a cohesive and meaningful way.
Person-Centred Counselling
Person-centred counselling is a therapeutic approach grounded in the belief that individuals have the inherent capacity for self-awareness, self-direction, and personal growth. The focus of Person-Centred Counselling is on creating a supportive and empathetic therapeutic relationship that allows clients to explore and understand themselves.
Key principles of Person-Centred Counselling include:
Unconditional Positive Regard:
The therapist provides an accepting and non-judgmental environment where clients feel valued and respected, regardless of their thoughts, feelings, or behaviours. This creates a safe space for clients to express themselves without fear of criticism.
Empathy:
The therapist strives to understand the client’s subjective experience and perspective. Through empathetic listening and reflection, the therapist communicates an understanding of the client’s emotions and experiences.
Congruence/Authenticity:
The therapist is genuine and authentic in their interactions with the client. This involves being open, honest, and transparent about their feelings and reactions, contributing to a more authentic and equal therapeutic relationship.
Client Self-Exploration:
Person-centred counselling emphasises the client’s self-exploration and self-discovery. The therapist does not impose solutions or interpretations but rather facilitates the client’s process of gaining insight into their thoughts, feelings, and behaviours.
Client Autonomy:
The therapy process is client-led, allowing individuals to set their own goals and priorities. The therapist supports the client’s autonomy and self-determination.
As well as addictive behaviour, person-centred counselling is also used to address a wide range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, and personal growth. The therapy is considered to be more “non-directive” compared to some other therapeutic approaches, with the therapist refraining from giving advice or interpretations. Instead, the focus is on creating the conditions for the client to discover any underlying issues, their solutions and make their own choices.
Sober Guides Counselling Services For Addiction and Substance Misuse
A Sober Guide or Companion offers professional counselling, provided by fully qualified BACP registered Counsellors, specialising in the treatment of alcohol, drug and behavioural addiction and substance misuse. We also offer counselling for families that are affected by a loved one’s addiction.
Counselling treats a wide range of substance and behavioural problems; it also treats those suffering from dual diagnosis illnesses such as anxiety, depression, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
The counselling services that we offer are of exceptional quality. We can provide counselling in England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales. We can also provide counselling services overseas.
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Professional Addiction Counselling
Counselling treats a wide range of substance and behavioural problems; it also treats those suffering from dual-diagnosis illnesses such as anxiety, depression, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
The counselling services that Which Rehab can help you find are of exceptional quality. We can put you in touch with counsellors in England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales and can also provide counselling services overseas.
Each addiction counselling programme is designed to address each individual’s personal treatment needs and is very person-centred, incorporating all the various types of counselling that successfully treat addiction and dual diagnosis.
Counselling is most effective face to face but we can also arrange video counselling and telephone counselling for those that require more flexibility or feel uncomfortable leaving the safety of their home.
Whatever type of addiction you might need help with, counselling can help you realise any problematic behaviours and break the cycle of addiction.
FAQs
The transition from a routine activity or behaviour to addiction is marked by a combination of psychological, behavioural, and physiological factors. It typically involves a loss of control, where individuals find themselves unable to regulate or limit their engagement despite negative consequences. A key indicator is the presence of compulsive urges, overshadowing other aspects of life. The development of tolerance, requiring increased intensity or frequency to achieve the same effect, is another hallmark.
Addiction often manifests through the persistence of the behaviour despite adverse outcomes and the emergence of withdrawal symptoms when attempting to abstain. Preoccupation with the addictive activity and an escalation in its intensity over time are additional signs.
Recognising when an activity transforms into an addiction is complex and varies among individuals, necessitating a holistic assessment of behavioural patterns and their impact on well-being. Seeking professional help and support is crucial for understanding and addressing addictive behaviours effectively.
One of the most prominent signs is an increasing tolerance for the addictive substance or activity, leading to the need for higher doses or more frequent engagement to achieve the desired effect. This can be accompanied by withdrawal symptoms when attempting to stop or reduce the substance or behaviour.
Another sign is a loss of control over the behaviour, where individuals find themselves unable to regulate or limit their engagement despite negative consequences. They may experience intense cravings and compulsive urges to engage in addictive behaviour, often overshadowing other aspects of their life.
Other signs of addiction may include neglecting responsibilities or obligations, experiencing negative consequences such as relationship problems or financial difficulties, and engaging in risky behaviours to obtain the substance or engage in the activity. Physical symptoms such as changes in sleep patterns, appetite, and weight loss or gain may also be present.
The cost of addiction counselling can vary depending on a variety of factors such as location, the type and length of treatment, the qualifications and experience of the therapist, and whether it is offered by public or private institutions. It is important to note that seeking help for addiction is an investment in one’s well-being and recovery, and the benefits can far outweigh the financial costs.
Publicly funded addiction counselling services may be available at little to no cost, while private counselling services may range in price. It is recommended to research and inquire about the cost of addiction counselling sessions in your specific area to find a program that fits your budget.