Addiction counseling can help conquer your dependence on opioids, but where do you start? It is one thing to admit to yourself that you have an addiction, but how do you build up the courage to talk about it to a stranger? There are so many fears that hold people back from reaching out for support, but the fear of not having a support system should be even more frightening.
What Is Addiction Counseling?
The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) states that an addiction counselor’s role ” is to provide support, education, and nonjudgmental confrontation.” This type of counseling is strongly recommended if you are in a medication-assisted treatment program, which only helps to decrease the chance for a relapse. It can take place in an individual or group setting, depending on what you feel comfortable with. Group counseling helps patients feel a sense of community and realize they are not alone in this difficult time.
These three points are critical to build a relationship with someone who is struggling, and it is a counselor’s mission to be there every step of the way.
How Do They Support Me?
You may have no one to talk to whether it is because you isolated yourself or your friends and family distanced themselves from you. Counselors are there to not only guide you to a better life, but they are also there to listen. One type of therapy a counselor may utilize is “cognitive-behavioral therapy“. Counselors can help you learn what triggers a relapse or an urge to use and whether it is physical, emotional, or both. When the trigger is identified, you are able to learn how to cope with it rather than giving in to it. Your counselor can also help you in mending damaged relationships and gain the confidence and self-control to really turn your life around.
If you feel like medication-assisted treatment is the route you want to take, AppleGate Recovery has these services bundled together at one place with a staff that cares about you. Click here to find a list of locations.