Counseling is a big part of the recovery process when it comes to addiction. There are many different types of counseling and therapy options that some recovery centers prefer over others. Some clients also have a better response to specific counseling therapies rather than others. This is why the Harm Reduction Center offers different types of counseling for addiction.
At the Harm Reduction Center, located in South Florida, we know that recovery is not a one size fits all circumstance. We strive to make treatment individualized and fit your lifestyle. There are many steps to the recovery process and it doesn’t end after detox. This is why different counseling options are offered and recommended to keep you on track and headstrong.
Why We Need Counseling
Each of the different types of counseling therapies is set into place to help provide tools and outlets during your journey through recovery, and after. Oftentimes, when we think counseling, many have the common misconception that it’s only involved in the mental health realm.
However, throughout detox, recovery, and treatment as a whole, there are many mental health obstacles people experience. These psychological and social factors can be powerful triggers, thus leading to relapse. This includes:
- Stress
- Anger
- Environmental cues (visiting a neighborhood or park that you associate with substance abuse)
- Social networks (hanging out with friends you used with)
When coming out of treatment it is hard to know how you will react to these triggers. This is why counseling is recommended after treatment, to help face life/ reality as a sober person. These aftercare counseling options can be the difference between sobriety and chronic relapses.
Individual vs. Group Counseling
There are two types of therapy options when it comes to counseling for addiction, individual and group. Individual therapy, or couseling, is working one-on-one with a therapist or counselor. Group therapy involves a therapist or counselor in a group setting of individuals with similar goals and struggles.
Both of these counseling therapy options have their advantages and while one may work for some, it doesn’t guarantee it will work for you. Trying different types of couseling options is beneficial to find which one helps keep you motivated on your sober journey.
Advantages of Individual Therapy
There are many benefits to counseling and therapy, both individual and group. Below are some of the advantages of choosing individual therapy over group sessions.
- In individual therapy, the client has the full attention of the therapist or counselor.
- When the therapist is only focusing one-on-one with a client, there is a better understanding of the client’s needs and direct feedback on progression.
- Sessions are able to maintain confidentiality because it is only you and the therapist, as opposed to group therapy with others involved.
- Individual therapy tends to be more intense and comprehensive.
- The pace of each session and the flow of therapy is specific to your needs. This is not able to happen in group therapy because the therapist has to cater to the entire groups’ needs.
- Another advantage of group therapy is that you can set your own personal schedule. Your schedule can be rearranged easier as well, whereas with group therapy there are set times and dates.
Advantages of Group Therapy
Group therapy is great for those starting in therapy and counseling because it isn’t as intimidating as sitting one-on-one with a therapist. Some of the advantages of group therapy are:
- Group therapy helps you understand that you are not alone and there are others struggling with the same issues. Being part of a group with peers working towards the same goals gives you a sense of identity and belongingness.
- Not only are you supported by your therapist, but in group therapy, you have the support of the other members.
- Group therapy allows for open discussion which can be easier when there are people in the room who have been in the same, or similar situations.
- Listening to other members of the group share their stories and struggles gives you insight into your own issues and self-awareness.
- Group therapy helps members open up and trust people around them. You gain communication skills, social skills, and how to accept and implement constructive criticism to better yourself.
- When choosing group therapy, you are making lifelong connections and resources for support with other members of the group.
- Oftentimes, group therapy is more affordable than individual therapy sessions.
Other Options of Couseling for Addiction
Two of the most well-known, and most practiced, forms of therapy are CBT and DBT.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is one of the most popular techniques which teaches you how to recognize moods, thoughts, and situations that trigger your addiction. During CBT, your therapist helps you identify these triggers and gives you the tools to avoid them. You are also taught how to replace negative thoughts, feelings, and actions with healthy ones, thus helping to improve the overall quality of life.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
Dialectical Behavior Therapy concentrates on acceptance and change. DBT teaches you how to accept your addiction, as well as how to move towards change. DBT is built upon the belief that change does not happen without acceptance first; therefore, counseling focuses on balancing both at once. DBT provides a framework for teaching clients how to change their patterns of thinking, behaving, and reacting in extreme ways.
Learn About Your Counseling Options
Whether you are looking for treatment options or trying to support a loved one, at Harm Reduction Center we offer resources to help you through this journey. From intensive outpatient programs, aftercare, to family counseling and support, we offer options that don’t end after treatment.
We understand the difficulty following treatment which is why we have options for support and the tools for your success beating your addiction. Contact the Harm Reduction Center today!
