Drug abuse counselors specialize in helping substance abusers get sober. In the course of their jobs, California drug counselors work with a very variety of people and substance abuse problems. From methamphetamine to alcohol, these dedicated counselors help to make recovery possible.
Who Are California Drug Counselors?
Drug counselors in California must be certified to work with addicted individuals. They may be employed at detox centers, hospitals, drug rehabilitation centers and mental health facilities. While a college degree isn’t always required, many California drug counselors receive advanced training in learning how to treat an addiction.
At the treatment center, counselors will work with patients in a therapeutic setting. Their goal is to help find the root of the addiction and help the addicted individual work toward recovery. Depending on the counselor, mental disorders, underlying issues or past trauma may be addressed as well. The ultimate goal of any program is to help the drug abuser reach sobriety.
What Treatment Options Are Available?
Each person is quite different in terms of needs, so California rehabilitation centers will often offer individualized programs. Depending on the program, patients may receive help through motivational interviewing, cognitive-behavioral therapy or contingency management. Family therapy is often provided to help patients reconnect with their loved ones after the strain of an addiction. Meanwhile, contingency management helps to positively reinforce sobriety by rewarding progress.
What Do California Drug Counselors Do?
When patients first meet their counselor, the counselor will discuss the patient’s past history and his or her addiction. The counselor’s initial goal is to learn about the patient’s unique addiction and factors that may fuel substance abuse. After the initial meeting, the drug counselor will work to figure out a treatment program that will help with sobriety. They may help addicted individuals identify the behavior patterns and emotional issues that prevent sobriety. Over time, these problems will be addressed to ensure addicted individuals have the best chance of success in their program.
Family and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy
Cognitive-behavioral therapy is designed to help patients avoid situations where they may be influenced to use drugs. At the same time, this therapy helps patients learn how to recognize triggers, handle negative emotions and cope with their addiction. Once cognitive-behavioral therapy is complete, the new coping skills can be carried over to patients’ regular lives.
Over the course of an addiction, family and personal relationships often break down. Emotional support is an important aspect of recovery, so drug counselors work to rebuild family bonds. Counseling is offered as a family and individually for a cohesive approach to treatment.
An addiction is a complex disease that takes time to treat. With substance abuse counseling and rehab, you get the best chance for a successful addiction recovery. To find out how treatment can help your recovery, call the Hills Treatment Center today at 844-915-0287.