Alcohol Abuse Counseling

Alcohol abuse counseling works by first helping the individual recognize the existence of a problem and the associated irrational thinking that comes along with alcohol abuse. Next, the person is encouraged to achieve and maintain abstinence and then to develop the necessary psychosocial skills to continue their recovery. In alcohol abuse counseling, it is the individual who must take responsibility for working on and succeeding with the alcohol abuse counseling recovery program.

Alcohol abuse counseling programs use a broad variety of techniques. These techniques include a wide range of approaches including problem-solving groups, specialized therapies such as insight-oriented psychotherapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and 12-step programs. Alcohol abuse counseling programs generally require the individual to stay in counseling for several months or longer.

Types of Alcohol Abuse Counseling

Alcohol abuse counseling programs vary in the types and intensity of treatment offered. Low-intensity alcohol abuse counseling programs may offer little more than drug education and counsel. Other alcohol abuse counseling models, such as intensive alcohol abuse counseling, can incorporate intensive psychotherapy and psychiatric intervention. All in all, the ultimate goal of alcohol abuse counseling is to help the individual recover from alcohol abuse so that they may re-enter society and lead responsible, successful alcohol free lives.

Alcohol Abuse Counseling and Support Groups

Support groups can complement and extend the efforts of alcohol abuse counseling. The most prominent support group for those recovering from alcohol abuse are those affiliated with Alcoholics Anonymous which is based on the 12-step model. There are other groups who provide meetings such as Smart Recovery and others not based on the 12 steps. Most alcohol abuse counselig programs encourage patients to participate in meetings to solidify the recovery process during and after formal treatment.

Alcohol Abuse Counseling Flexibility

Alcohol abuse counseling is a popular form of treatment because of it's flexibility especially for those who cannot go away long periods of time to devote entirely to treatment. Alcohol abuse counseling programs can be very useful to those who must continue to work or attend school. Attending alcohol abuse counseling requires very strict self discipline becuse the client is not under constant supervision and still lives at home. Alcohol abuse counseling is not intended for those who fear they may give in to the temptation of alcohol in the early stages of treatment.

Alcohol Abuse Counseling Credentials

Alcohol abuse counseling is typically preformed by mental health professionals or addiction specialists. There are different types of mental health professionals, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors that preform alcohol abuse counseling. All may work as therapists, though different professions emphasize different aspects of alcohol abuse counseling in regards to mental health. The words "therapist" and "counselor" do not have legal meanings. In most states anyone can use these terms. In addition to clinical psychologists there are many fine counselors and therapists who have degrees in counseling, clinical social work, addiction, and related mental health fields. Check for credentials and memberships in professional organizations. Many specialize in certain areas, such as family therapy, sexual problems, eating disorders and substance abuse.