Understanding The Complex Roles 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.

The counselors also try to understand why a person resorted to substance abuse. Only by understanding the reason would they be able to formulate the most effective program that could persuade the patient never to go back. Sometimes, the counselor also helps in straightening out broken relationships, dealing with traumatic experiences in the past or fixing an old issue.

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.

On a deeper sense, the professionals create programs that aid in the client's recovery process. The counselors help the patients understand why it is necessary not to go back to substance abuse. They educate the patients on stress management, coping mechanisms, relapse prevention, communication skills and problem-solving skills.

They work with the family members, too. Keeping a healthy relationship among family members can reinforce the program's efficiency. The process gets much easier when the patient realizes that he is not alone. Unfortunately, some family members may be unwilling or merely unaware. The counselor can be a big help in this case.

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.

Due to the profound roles of a substance abuse counselor Pasadena, it is not surprising that the state remains watchful with this profession. The certification process is streamlined throughout the country. Each region implements specific guidelines in assessing an aspiring counselor's qualification. Official recognition is only provided to worthy individuals to maintain high standards.




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