Substance Use Counseling

Medication-assisted treatment is shown to be most effective when supported by substance use counseling as a part of a comprehensive recovery program. BAART Programs utilize the skills, knowledge and experience certified addiction counselors to help guide and support our patients on the journey to long-term recovery.

What kind of counseling is available?

Valuable counseling can be done as an individual or in a group, with each offering different benefits to those working to rebuild their lives after opioid addiction. Individual substance use counseling is integrated into all patient treatment plans while some locations may also include group and family counseling options. The type and amount of counseling varies based on the needs of the patient, but some type of counseling is a legal requirement of participation in a medication-assisted treatment program.

What are the benefits of individual counseling?

The primary goal of individual substance use counseling is to identify and address the issues and traumas that contribute to a person’s drug use. While individuals may be aware of events or circumstances that have impacted them negatively, they are often unable to identify or change the long-term effects of those things.

Each patient’s specific goals for counseling will be unique to them, and therefore the benefits will vary, but typically include:

Changing thoughts and behaviors towards opioids and other substances or activities that change the way a patient feels.

Gaining tools to use in healing and rebuilding relationships damaged during active addiction.

Learning new coping mechanisms to handle stressful situations and difficulties encountered in life without using past negative behaviors.

Understanding the science of addiction and utilizing that knowledge to prevent relapse.

Building a relationship with a counselor that allows patients to feel safe discussing past traumas, family issues and other difficulties.

Applying everything a patient has learned to become a productive member of the workforce and community.

top-right-circ

What are the benefits of group counseling?

Group counseling can be very effective for patients in a medication-assisted treatment program. People often feel very alone when entering treatment and group counseling offers a way to feel a sense of community. It helps to know that while everyone’s story is different, there are people who understand how you feel.

Benefits of group counseling include:

Providing patients the opportunity to share their experiences and learn tools and strategies for problem-solving from others in recovery.

Patients feel less guilt and shame when they realize that others have had similar experiences both in and out of active addiction.

Creating a sense of accountability amongst patients to continue working toward meeting both individual and group treatment goals.

Building a support network of others who may encounter similar challenges can help patients persevere through difficulties in sobriety.

Should I attend a 12-step or other recovery group meetings?

Counselors may encourage patients to participate in programs such as Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous or any number of other groups offering support, accountability and fellowship. These recommendations will be a part of each patient’s unique treatment plan based on their needs and goals.

bottom-circ

How do I get help?

Call for Information
Find Treatment Near Me