Substance use disorder (SUD) can negatively impact every aspect of a person’s life. Millions of people in the United States struggle with drug and alcohol abuse, but very few people get the treatment they need to overcome this condition.
Addiction is a complex condition that requires a comprehensive treatment approach. In addition to treating the physical aspects of addiction, it is critical to address the behavioral and emotional parts of this condition.
Addiction therapy can help people explore and overcome the complex roots of their substance abuse. Alongside medication management, education, and other evidence-based therapies, addiction counseling is a critical part of long-term recovery.
This article will explore the benefits of addiction counseling and where to find a therapist in Princeton, NJ. You will learn:
- What to expect in addiction therapy
- The benefits of counseling in addiction recovery
- How to find an addiction therapist in Princeton
- How to determine if you or a loved one need addiction treatment
- Where to find comprehensive addiction treatment programs
If you or a loved one struggles with substance abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Find compassionate, holistic treatment and support at The Living Room. Contact us with questions or to schedule an intake appointment.
What is an Addiction Therapist?
An addiction therapist is a licensed mental health professional. Addiction therapists work with people with substance use disorder (SUD). During therapy, the client and therapist work together to identify and work toward goals related to addiction recovery.
Therapy can help people identify and work through the roots of addiction and mental health disorders. Counseling can help people change their relationships with alcohol or drugs. Addiction counseling also helps people address depression and mood disorders that contribute to SUD.
People may participate in therapy as part of an outpatient substance abuse treatment program, such as an intensive outpatient program (IOP). People may also receive therapy in a residential or inpatient rehab program. Addiction therapy may occur on an individual basis or in group sessions.
Therapists may use several therapeutic techniques during individual counseling, group therapy, or family therapy. These include:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Motivational interviewing
- Matrix model
- Contingency model
- Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
Counselors may draw from several approaches to meet each client’s unique needs.
After completing rehab, people may participate in individual therapy sessions and support groups as part of a relapse prevention plan.
What are the Benefits of Addiction Therapy?
Addiction therapy is a critical element of substance abuse and mental health treatment. Addiction is not simply a physical condition. It also affects a person’s mind, behaviors, emotions, relationships, and more.
Addiction therapy provides a safe, supportive environment for people to explore and identify the roots of their substance abuse. Some of the benefits of addiction therapy include:
- Improved self-esteem
- The ability to identify and address trauma
- Reduction of negative thoughts
- More control over behaviors, leading to a reduction of impulsive or destructive behaviors
- Learning effective emotional regulation tools
- Improved communication skills
- Learning how to set and communicate healthy boundaries
- Exploring the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors
- Setting goals and learning skills to work toward them
Participating in counseling during substance use and mental health treatment can help people understand their thoughts and feelings more deeply. People learn effective coping skills to reduce stress and change destructive behaviors. These and other skills can help people to avoid relapse more effectively.
How to Find an Addiction Therapist in Princeton, NJ
Participating in addiction therapy can be life-changing. Therapy can help you get to know yourself in new ways and learn skills to make significant changes.
There are several ways you may find an addiction therapist. You may:
- Look online for local counseling centers
- Ask your doctor or another medical professional for referrals
- Call the number on the back of your insurance card to speak to an insurance representative
- Explore in-network therapists on your insurance company’s website
- Contact the intake specialists at The Living Room at Princeton for assistance
When choosing a therapist in Princeton, you may want to ask the following questions:
- Do you provide addiction counseling?
- What therapeutic approaches do you use?
- How long have you practiced?
If you have special considerations or preferences, tell a potential therapist about them. It is essential to find a therapist you feel comfortable with and who can meet your unique needs.
Do I Need Addiction Treatment?
It can be challenging to determine when you or a loved one requires substance abuse treatment. Some signs someone needs treatment include:
- Using drugs or alcohol more often
- Needing to use more of a substance to get the desired effects
- Having cravings for drugs or alcohol
- Continuing to use drugs or alcohol even when it causes significant problems
- Having new or worsening mental health symptoms
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms if they reduce or stop their substance use
- Neglecting responsibilities, hobbies, or relationships because of substance use
- Isolating more often
- Feeling out of control of their substance use
Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) programs, counseling, mental health care, and other therapies can help people overcome substance abuse. Seek treatment as soon as you recognize the signs of drug or alcohol abuse.
Find an Addiction Counselor in Princeton, NJ
If you or a loved one struggles with substance abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Contact the intake specialists at The Living Room to learn about our comprehensive substance abuse and mental health treatment programs. Reach out to ask questions or schedule an intake appointment.