Substance Abuse Counseling
Substance abuse counseling helps individuals recover from the problems associated with chemical use. Outpatient substance abuse counseling is available. Additionally, families also struggle with the problems associated with a loved one’s use. Substance abuse counseling also is available to family members. Issues addressed include boundaries, support, and the grief experienced due to a loved one’s use.
Substance abuse is a ‘slippery slope.’ Meaning that it is difficult to know when someone is drinking or using too much. Other times it is obvious and without question that an individual has a problem. Either way, no one ever signs up to become an addict. The problem is that addiction is a progressive and degenerative disease. If you are worried about your use or think you might have a problem don’t wait. Call for an assessment and receive immediate feedback regarding your patterns of use. Utilize the following list to help determine if you may have a problem:
- Tried to cut down on your drinking?
- Been annoyed with other peoples’ complaints about your drinking?
- Felt guilty about your drinking?
- Ever needed a drink as an eye opener in the morning?
- Had more than 4 drinks in one sitting and/or more than 7 drinks in a week (female)?
- Had more than 5 drinks in one sitting and/or more than 14 drinks in a week (male)?
Solutions
Several solutions exist for the treatment of alcohol and drug abuse and dependence. Many people find that incorporating more than one solution is the only way to solve the problem of abuse and dependence. Bedford Behavioral Health believes in a bio-psycho-socio-spiritual approach to treating substance abuse problems. Thus, individualized treatment plans include:
- Assessment of motivation for change
- Coordination of care with medical doctors
- Regular attendance at self-help groups
- 12, 16, or 24 week psychoeducation group
- Individualized counseling to address mental health
- Periodic random drug screening
- Coordination with legal system
- Relapse prevention planning