The Invaluable Service Of A Substance Abuse Counselor

By Harriett Crosby


Dealing with substance abuse is never easy. This feat requires steadfast determination, genuine desire and professional help. Counseling is an essential part to any program that helps individuals who have become dependent to controlled drugs, alcohol and the likes. A substance abuse counselor Pasadena is vital to the success of such programs. More than understanding the client's needs, there are several other considerations that the professional must take into account.

Although the detoxification process efficiently eliminates the substances out from a patient's body, this is not enough. Since physical dependence is but one of the many facets of addiction, relapse is still a risk. Psychological, social and emotional factors must also be addressed. These are powerful stimuli that imperils the patients to regressing.

The counselors will guide the patients in this arduous journey. It is not easy to walk away from the lifestyle one is used to. Too many times, the role of a counselor spans beyond helping a patient turn their back from substance abuse. They can also offer counsels pertaining to one's marriage, family or professional life. As all aspects in a person's life are interconnected, the counselor needs to cover every facet.

Moreover, the professional delves deeper into the issue. They try to understand what propelled the patient into addiction. This is vital in designing a program. Unless the counselor understands why the patient did it, he may not find out how to convince the latter otherwise. At times, this may take fixing old problems, ironing out a severed relationship or dealing with a past trauma.

The patients can also find support in the counseling sessions. The help and assistance of friends and families are greatly appreciated. Notwithstanding, a professional who totally understands the patient's situation is critical. In this rough time, the patients easily break down with frustration. A sincere gesture of help can be easily misunderstood as rude intrusion.

Ultimately, the professionals help the patient recover. Aside from developing a program to convince one to quit, the counselors also educate their clients. They help one understand why he should quite addiction and never go back. They introduce coping mechanisms, communication skills, relapse prevention, problem-solving skills and stress management.

The counselor is also responsible in dealing with the family members. It is crucial to keep a healthy relationship with one's family in this difficult time. This can help in the recovery process. A person can recover much easily when he realizes he is not alone. The professional sees to it that the family members do their part.

The counselors also have valuable connections to other professionals who can help the patient. Besides counseling, the patient may also require psychiatric care, medical care, housing and financial assistance, child care or vocational training. As someone who knows the ins and outs of this field, a counselor knows where to seek professional help from.

The role of substance abuse counselor Pasadena is undeniably vital for the success of the program. As such, the state understandably maintains high-standards in providing accreditation. This field is streamlined throughout the country. Stringent procedures are in place in assessing the aspirants. Only qualified individuals are given appropriate recognitions.




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