Addiction and Compulsion in Substance Abuse Counseling

Posted on August 7, 2024 by Mark Moran

Substance Abuse Counseling, as well as general counseling can help individuals better control urges, change habits and live more productive lives with healthier choices and non-maladaptive practices. Substance Abuse Counselors play key role in helping clients find ways to change, become resilient, and live healthier lives.

Addiction pushes one into bad habits and choices. Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Practitioner Certification Program

Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Practitioner Certification and see if it meets your professional needs in counseling

Acknowledging a Problem in Substance Abuse

Unfortunately, many individuals who suffer from addiction need first to wish to change. The process of change is the key. The Change Scale in Psychology looks at the challenges of helping a client see the need for change. Only until a client acknowledges a problem can a client truly change. Even after intellectually identifying a problem, one must become unified emotionally in the deeper yearning to change. Once the need for change is identified, a client can begin to explore the problem, find solutions and execute the necessary changes to transform. Unfortunately, this is a long process, with setbacks, but ultimately, it is direction that pushes forward.

Addiction and Compulsions

The addictive act is habitual in itself. It was not initially habitual but merely an isolated act. The act was initially committed out of curiosity, randomness, or a maladaptive act to deal with trauma, grief, depression, anxiety or various stressors. The randomness of the act overtime evolved from merely an isolated event to a consistent series of act which eventually became habitual. In all human acts, certain responses and acts to stress can turn to habit. A person whether it involves substance abuse, drugs, or even particular actions such as gambling, or porn addictions, eventually enters into a pattern of actions in response to various stressors. Some habits in fact can be healthy such as exercise, but even when exercise becomes a habit that is damaging the body or dominating time within a day can become an issue. Maladaptive coping is not only wrong within itself but also excessive, even if good. If coping is not at least moderate to a stressor, then habits can form that lead to addicting behavior. Of course, in regards to substance, there exists more than a mental need to reframe, but also a physical addiction. For some, fortunately, chemical addiction does not occur to genetics, but for others, they can become fiercely dependent not only mentally but also physically to function. Addiction hence is not only persistent and habitual without thought but also a necessary state to function for the person.

Compulsions to act upon a substance or behavior are also powerful drives. A compulsion is not necessarily persistent but it is a powerful and overwhelming urge to engage in an activity or take a particular substance. A compulsion is usually preceded by obsessive and intruding thoughts while addiction exists within a natural habit of acting. Counselors, especially Substance Abuse Counselors can help clients better control compulsions through various therapies and help produce change and transformation through these therapies. They can also help clients fight through the never ended battle of addiction.

Good Therapy states

“Symptoms that suggest a compulsive behavior has become problematic include:

Interpersonal and professional relationship problems
Concealment of the behavior
Denial of a problem
Inability to stop the behavior
Alternating feelings of anxiety, confusion, shame, or elation that revolve around the behavior
Withdrawal from or a lack of enjoyment in other activities
Desire only for the company of others who pursue the activity or, to an opposite extreme, the urge to conduct the activity only in isolation
Fear surrounding the potential repercussions associated with discontinuing the activity”

“Addictions and Compulsions”. Good Therapy. 2019. Access here

Rewiring Oneself and Substance Abuse

Obviously, those who are not addicted but facing compulsions can escape the demon of maladaptive coping via substances or practices, but those who are chemically dependent face a life long battle. After acknowledging the necessity of change, individuals need to dedicate themselves to more adaptive coping strategies and removing themselves from the temptations. The occasion of sin is a powerful pull not only for the addicted but also those who face serious compulsions and temptations with a particular substance, activity or vice. How one rewires and reframes the nature of the addiction is key. Understanding first and foremost that it is maladaptive, excessive and unhealthy starts the important process of detesting what it is and what it does to the individual. This turning away from habit though requires not only removing oneself from the situation and bad occasions and “friends” or places, but also working on rewiring oneself in how one responds to triggers and stressors that previously pushed one to the activity or substance.

Hence in counseling, a Substance Abuse Counselor will help a client discuss the urges, what the client feels and what other coping strategies one may employ. For instance, if someone who feels stressed turns to smoking, a counselor may suggest when these urges arise, what are some other ways to calm down that you may be comfortable utilizing to help reduce stress other than smoking. The key is to help the client rewire oneself and instead of using the addictive maladaptive habit and to begin to find other ways to find relief from the particular trigger.

Therapies in Counseling for Addiction

Many of the therapies that exist in general counseling can be applied for addiction as well. Obviously first and foremost, a Rogerian and Humanistic Approach is key. Empathy to the suffering of the individual is key. This is involves helping the person identify one’s feelings and find ways for one change. This involves helping the person see where he/she exists and where one wishes to be. This involves one’s perceived self and then the person’s real self. Helping a person cross the bridge from real self to ideal self involves the entire empathetic process of Rogerian therapy. It also involves non-judgmental attitudes that allow the client to express his/her addictions in a safe place. Furthermore it involves empathetic confrontations when necessary to help the client recognize the necessity for change and how the client’s addiction and behaviors is not only destroying oneself but also that of his/her family, friends, social life, professional career and overall health. Rogerian therapies can also show the necessary empathy in helping those who relapse and help one move forward in developing better resiliency.

There are a variety of mental health therapies that can be employed to help those struggling with addiction and substance abuse

In addition, CBT or Cognitive Behavioral Therapies can be employed to help the client reframe life and reframe addiction and how maladaptive practices are only ruining one’s life. This may involve returning to the initial issue of depression, trauma, PTSD, or anxiety that prompted the maladaptive coping. Understanding the source and reframing it through CBT strategies can help the client start anew with a new meaning about the primary issue and ways to better deal with it.

Finally, group therapies and support groups are key in helping clients with addiction move forward. This is especially true with those with little social or family support at home. Support groups can help individuals share stories and find strength with similar persons. It can help one see others who understand oneself as well as see the success of others. Furthermore, such programs as AA 12 Step Program can help clients take responsibility for one’s actions can help one develop the skills necessary to move past addiction.

Beyond psychological interventions, some cases require deeper and more drastic interventions which require detox and short or long term facilities, out patient care or even hospitalization. Interventions may also require various medications to help a person. Ultimately, the disease of addiction has its extremities. Some require more drastic measures to become clear of the substance so that true therapy can begin.

Conclusion

Addiction is disease that destroys lives. Whether it is behavioral, chemical, or substance, addiction tears a person away from the real problem through maladaptive practices that harm the person. It leads the person down a darker path that merely alleviates the primary issue only temporarily but leads to longer lasting health, mental and social problems. The habitual hold on the person requires professional, spiritual and empathetic help which also in many cases includes support from others. Ultimately, the person must acknowledge the problem at all levels and search to find a solution. Substance Abuse Counselors as well as Mental Health Counselors can play key roles in helping individuals live with addiction and transform one’s live.

While there are different professional levels of substance abuse counseling, some human service professionals are trained but only certified working under a licensed director, while others are also licensed professional counselors. AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Practitioner Certification looks to help human service professionals attain a certification in addictions to help them better help those afflicted with addiction. Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Practitioner Certification Program and see if it meets your academic and professional goals. The program is online and independent study and open to qualified healthcare and human service professionals looking to help others in the area of addiction. Whether it is working in a call center, or applying a certification with an existing licensure, AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Practitioner Program can help enhance one’s knowledge and professional background.

Additional Resources

Pederson, T. (2021). “How Are Substance Use Disorders (SUDs) Treated?”. PsychCentral. Access here

“Treatment of Addiction”. Psychology Today. Access here

“Treatment of Substance Use Disorders”. (2024). CDC. Access here

“Drug Addiction”. Mayo Clinic. Access here

Webster, A. (2024). “Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for Addiction and Substance Abuse”. American Addiction Centers. Access here

Substance Abuse Counseling: Techniques for Addiction Recovery.

Posted on December 14, 2023 by Dominick Flarey

By – James M. Katz, BA

A sheet of paper with "Drug Addiction, Substance abuse" wrote on it. — Substance Abuse Counseling saves lives!

Substance abuse counseling plays a critical role in addiction recovery and families overcome the challenges of addiction. As a substance abuse counselor, the primary objective is to provide support, guidance, and therapy to those struggling with substance abuse and addiction. In this comprehensive guide, I will explore the various aspects of substance abuse counseling, including the role of a counselor, the nature of substance abuse and addiction, the stages of addiction recovery, counseling approaches and techniques, the importance of family involvement, tips for finding the right counselor, common myths and misconceptions, and resources for counseling and support.

Substance Abuse Counseling is extremely important in Addiction Recovery. Identifying the root causes of the addiction is also extremely important. Events, triggers, and existing issues in one’s personal life can create problems with any recovery effort. In the article quoted below, it goes more in depth on the causes of substance abuse.

Addiction can be a difficult and overwhelming experience for individuals and their loved ones. It is important to understand the root of the problem and take appropriate steps to combat substance abuse. Addiction can have a major impact on an individual’s physical and mental health, as well as their personal and professional relationships. Seeking help and support is crucial for overcoming addiction and maintaining a healthy, fulfilling life.

The Ultimate Guide For Addiction Recovery. By David Hucks December 6, 2023 Myrtle Beach SC News

Full Article Here

Commentary:

The Role of Substance Abuse Counseling

As a substance abuse counselor, the role is multifaceted. They are responsible for assessing the needs of individuals struggling with substance abuse and addiction, developing personalized treatment plans, and providing therapy and support throughout the recovery process. Working closely with clients to identify the underlying causes of their addiction, address any co-occurring mental health issues, and help them develop strategies for maintaining sobriety. Additionally, they play a crucial role in educating individuals and their families about the nature of addiction and the importance of seeking professional help.

Understanding Substance Abuse and Addiction

Substance abuse refers to the harmful or hazardous use of psychoactive substances, such as alcohol, drugs, or prescription medications. Addiction, on the other hand, is characterized by a compulsive need to use a substance despite negative consequences. It is essential to understand that addiction is a chronic disease that affects the brain, leading to changes in behavior, cognition, and emotional regulation. Substance abuse and addiction can have severe physical, psychological, and social consequences, and seeking professional help is crucial for recovery.

The Stages of Addiction Recovery

Recovery from addiction is a complex and lifelong process that involves several stages. The first stage is recognition, where individuals become aware of their substance abuse problem and acknowledge the need for change. This is followed by the stage of detoxification, where individuals undergo a supervised withdrawal process to rid their bodies of the addictive substance. The next stage is rehabilitation, which involves therapy, counseling, and learning new coping skills to prevent relapse. Finally, the maintenance stage focuses on sustaining sobriety and preventing relapse through ongoing support and aftercare programs.

A post it note with "Addiction, We can Help!" wrote on it. — Addiction recovery? Coaching can help!

Types of Substance Abuse Counseling Approaches

Substance abuse counseling employs various approaches to address the unique needs of individuals struggling with addiction. Some common approaches include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which helps individuals identify and change destructive patterns of thinking and behavior, and motivational interviewing, which aims to increase an individual’s motivation to change. Other approaches may include dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), family therapy, group therapy, and holistic therapies such as yoga and meditation. The choice of approach depends on the individual’s needs, preferences, and the severity of the addiction.

Techniques Used in Substance Abuse Counseling

Substance abuse counseling utilizes a range of techniques to support individuals in their recovery journey. These techniques may include individual counseling sessions, where clients can explore their emotions, thoughts, and behaviors in a safe and confidential space. Group therapy sessions provide individuals with a supportive community and the opportunity to learn from others who have faced similar challenges. Additionally, counselors may use behavioral interventions, such as contingency management, to reinforce positive behaviors and discourage substance abuse. The use of evidence-based techniques ensures that counseling is effective and tailored to the unique needs of each individual.

The Importance of Family Involvement in Substance Abuse Counseling

Family involvement is crucial in substance abuse counseling, as addiction affects not only the individual but also their loved ones. Families play a significant role in providing support, understanding, and encouragement throughout the recovery process. Family therapy sessions can help address underlying family dynamics that may contribute to substance abuse. Education and support for family members can also help them understand the nature of addiction and develop healthy coping mechanisms. Involving the family in counseling can strengthen relationships and provide a solid foundation for long-term recovery.

Tips for Finding the Right Substance Abuse Counselor

Finding the right substance abuse counselor is essential for effective treatment. Here are some tips to consider when searching for a counselor:
Look for credentials and experience: Ensure that the counselor is licensed and has expertise in substance abuse counseling.
Evaluate their approach: Different counselors may have different therapeutic approaches, so find one that aligns with your needs and preferences.
Seek recommendations: Reach out to trusted healthcare professionals, friends, or family members who may have experience with substance abuse counseling.
Consider accessibility: Choose a counselor who is conveniently located and offers flexible appointment options.
Trust your instincts: It is crucial to feel comfortable and trust your counselor, as this will facilitate open and honest communication.

Common Myths and Misconceptions about Substance Abuse Counseling

There are several myths and misconceptions surrounding substance abuse counseling that can hinder individuals from seeking help. It is important to debunk these myths to encourage individuals to seek the support they need. Some common myths include the belief that counseling is only for severe addiction, that it is a sign of weakness or failure, or that it is ineffective. Substance abuse counseling is a valuable and evidence-based approach to addiction recovery that can help individuals regain control over their lives and achieve lasting sobriety.

Resources for Substance Abuse Counseling and Support

There are numerous resources available for individuals and families seeking substance abuse counseling and support. Local community centers, healthcare clinics, and hospitals often offer counseling services. National helplines and online directories can provide information on local resources and treatment centers. Additionally, support groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA) offer a supportive community of individuals in recovery. It is essential to explore these resources and find the support that best suits your needs.

Conclusion

A group session being conducted. — Admitting you need Substance Abuse Counseling is the first step.

Substance abuse counseling is a vital component of addiction recovery, providing individuals and families with the support, guidance, and therapy needed to overcome substance abuse. By understanding the role of a substance abuse counselor, the nature of addiction, the stages of recovery, counseling approaches and techniques, and the importance of family involvement, individuals can make informed decisions about seeking help. It is crucial to debunk common myths and misconceptions and utilize available resources to find the right counselor and support system. With professional assistance and a commitment to change, individuals and families can embark on a journey of recovery and achieve lasting sobriety. If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, don’t hesitate to seek help. Reach out to a substance abuse counselor or a local treatment center to start your journey to recovery today. For more information on how to become a substance abuse counselor please consider reviewing our Substance Abuse Practitioner program

References:

SAMHSA Homepage

NAADAC – The Association for Addiction Professionals

Additional Resources:

Predictors of early dropout in outpatient buprenorphine/naloxone treatment. Marcovitz, D.E., et al. (2016), Am J Addict, 25: 472-477.

Access link here

Deception and Drug Acquisition: Correlates of “Success” Among Drug-Seeking Patients. Sanders AN, et al. Journal of Primary Care & Community Health. 2016;7(3):175-179.

Access link here

RCAM: a proposed model of recovery capital for adolescents, Addiction Research & Theory. Emily A. Hennessy, Julie V. Cristello & John F. Kelly (2019) 27:5, 429-436,

Access link here

Lifestyle interventions in the management of substance use disorder. Naren, T., Cook, J., Armstrong, F., & Manger, S. (2022). Australian Journal of General Practice, 51(8), 560–564.

Access link here

Most Addicts Are Victims Of Abuse: Substance Abuse Counselor Program

Posted on September 9, 2015November 17, 2022 by Dominick Flarey

Local News – Most addicts ‘are victims of abuse’

Sourced through Scoop.it from: www.gdnonline.com

Sad reality that most addicts and substance abuse issues stem from abuse. The abuse can cause many mental injuries that lead people to drugs and misuse of them

It is so sad that individuals of physical or sexual abuse are not given the help they need to overcome the trauma of abuse. Instead they turn to drugs to hide their pain. Substance Abuse Counselors can help. You can also become a Substance Abuse Counselor and help.

If you would like to become a substance abuse counselor then please review the program

#substanceabusecounselor

Substance Abuse Signs and Symptoms

Posted on November 19, 2012October 19, 2022 by Dominick Flarey

Understanding the Signs and Symptoms of Substance Abuse

Substance abuse is a big problem. A surprising number of people use narcotics for recreation . While heroin is the most popular illicit narcotic drug, there are a number of legal narcotic drugs that people experiment with. Here are some signs and symptoms of narcotic drug abuse:
Doctor Shopping
When someone becomes addicted to a prescription narcotic drug, he or she often starts “doctor shopping” in order to increase his or her supply of the drug. The term “doctor shopping” refers to looking for doctors that are willing to prescribe more of a given drug. Doctor shopping is a sign that something is seriously wrong. It is not normal behavior and almost always indicates that some kind of drug addiction is involved.

A lot of narcotics abusers engage in doctor shopping. When they discover that their primary doctor is no longer willing to prescribe as much of their drugs as they want, they resort to looking for doctors willing to prescribe them what they want. Unfortunately, there are unscrupulous doctors out there that take advantage of this behavior. Many are not trained and have not had any type of substance abuse counseling education.

sad woman — Everyone suffers with substance abuse.

Craving the Narcotic
Often the first sign that someone is starting to abuse their prescribed narcotic medication is that he or she starts to crave it. Craving indicates that the person prescribed narcotics needs to talk to his or her doctor immediately in order to change his or her medication.
Almost always, a different (non-addictive) drug can be substituted in place of the currently prescribed drug. If this is not enough to deal with the problem, some kind of professional counseling may be needed.
Feeling a Need to Take the Narcotic to Feel Normal
Narcotics are powerful drugs that do play a useful role in pain management. Problems develop when people prescribed narcotics inadvertently become addicted to them. One of the earliest signs of this is feeling a strong need to take the narcotic in order to feel normal.
As dependence on the narcotic develops, addicts feel the need to take the narcotic drug more and more frequently. At first, escalating the dose brings relief. Then, inevitably, after a period of time addicts feel like they need to escalate the dose again. This leads to a never-ending cycle of increasing the dose, feeling comfortable with the new increased dose, and then feeling the need to increase the dose yet again.
Persistent Euphoria
Narcotics abusers often feel unusually euphoric. They may appear to be exceptionally elated (or “high”) much of the time. Ultimately, the persistent euphoria a lot of narcotics users experience greatly interferes with their ability to function well in everyday life. They find that they can no longer hold down a job, and they are incapable of functioning well in society. Of course, some narcotics abusers are able to hide their euphoria and more or less blend into society. But these abusers are the exception, not the rule.
Shallow Respiration
Ultimately, narcotics abuse often leads to respiratory problems because narcotics sedate the muscles involved in breathing. A narcotics overdose often leads to death through this mechanism. Persistently shallow respiration is a very worrisome symptom of narcotics abuse. Narcotics abusers that develop it are often quite close to dying as a result of their drug abuse habit.
Constipation
The overuse of narcotics tends to mess with normal elimination. Narcotics abusers typically become constipated as a result. The degree of constipation is usually tied to the degree of narcotics abuse. The more the narcotics abuser abuses narcotics, the more constipated he or she becomes.
Slurred Speech
Narcotics abusers sometimes exhibit slurred speech, which may cause people to assume they are drunk. Slurred speech frequently occurs in narcotics abusers because heavy narcotics use tends to interfere with normal thinking and the ability to communicate clearly.
Small Pupils
While a lot of drugs tend to dilate pupils when they are abused, narcotics are unusual in that they contract pupils. This sometimes gives narcotics abusers the appearance of having “beady” eyes. (Of course, lots of other things besides narcotics abuse can temporarily diminish pupil size.)
Narcotics abuse is a big problem in many industrialized countries. Abusers often start abusing narcotics after accidentally becoming addicted to narcotics prescription medication. Doctors who prescribe narcotics need to be especially careful to look for signs and symptoms of narcotic drug abuse in the patients they have prescribed narcotics.
If you want to learn how to stop substance abuse or if you are interested in becoming a certified substance abuse counselor then you might want to visit our webpage.