Drug and Alcohol Counseling Columbus Ohio

Overview

We believe that there are a wide variety of complex issues to consider when it comes to substance use, abuse, diagnosis, and treatment. Each individual situation needs to be carefully reviewed by a skilled professional before concluding what course of action is appropriate. When treatment is needed, one-to-one counseling can play a vital role at different points in the process of regaining a sober life.

When to Consider Substance Abse Counseling

You may want to consider the use of outpatient individual counseling if:

• Attempts at “rehab,” intensive outpatient, or inpatient treatment have not worked
• You have great difficulty attending or agreeing with 12 Step meeting philosophy
• You do not want to stop the use of any particular substance at this time, but do wish to reduce use or high risk/harmful behaviors involving use
• You would like to explore issues that may be contributing to your use
• You are using Suboxone therapy to stop using painkillers
• Group treatment has left you with empty clichés and ideas that have not worked
• You are looking for professional support for relapse prevention
• You wonder if you are seeing some early signs of a substance abuse problem

While abstinence is certainly an option at all times and for some absolutely necessary, we recognize that each person and situation is unique. For many, decreased use and harm/risk reduction are worthy goals.

We also realize that true and lasting change occurs in stages. Your readiness to change and internal motivation are critical.

We will work with you regardless of whether your current motivation is high, feels almost non-existent, or it varies greatly from day to day. Change is possible.

Drug and Alcohol Assessment

Unsure if drinking is problematic?  The AUDIT questionnaire is designed to help in the self-assessment of alcohol consumption and to identify any implications for your health and well being.  Click here to begin this self-assessment.  For more information and to begin the journey of healing, call our client relationship coordinator to find out what steps you can take now.

Also see:

Drug and Alcohol Assessments
DOT/SAP Evaluations
Teenage Substance Abuse

Substance Use Disorder

Substance use disorder is a disease that can take hold of anyone, regardless of their age, gender, or background. It’s a disease that can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Genetic predisposition
• Trauma
• Mental illness
• Social environment

Those who struggle with substance abuse face a never-ending cycle of cravings, withdrawal symptoms, and the overwhelming urge to use, all of which can have devastating effects on their physical, emotional, and social well-being.

Substance abuse is not a choice or a moral failing, it’s a disease that requires medical intervention, therapy, and ongoing support. The reality is that substance abuse can be incredibly isolating, and those who are affected by it often feel ashamed and misunderstood.

It’s important to remember that there is hope and that recovery is possible. With the right help and support, those who are struggling with substance abuse can reclaim their lives and build a brighter future. It’s time we start treating substance abuse like the disease that it is, and provide those who are affected by it with the care, empathy, and understanding they deserve.

Substance Abuse Counseling Can Help

If you or someone you love is struggling with substance abuse, know that you are not alone. Seeking help through counseling can be a powerful tool in treating addiction and reclaiming your life.

Counseling provides a safe and confidential space for individuals to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors related to substance use, and to develop coping strategies and tools to help them manage triggers and cravings.

Through counseling, individuals can also address any additional mental health concerns, such as depression or anxiety, that may be contributing to their substance use. With the support and guidance of a trained counselor, individuals can develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses their unique needs and goals, and work towards a life free from addiction.

It’s never too late to seek help, and taking that first step toward recovery can be incredibly empowering. You are worth the effort it takes to get help, and with counseling, you can build a brighter future for yourself and your loved ones.

We Protect your Privacy

If you are considering seeking help for substance abuse, it’s natural to feel hesitant or nervous about sharing your struggles with others.

It’s important to remember that substance abuse counselors are trained professionals who understand the sensitive and personal nature of substance abuse disorder. They value your privacy and confidentiality and will work with you to create a safe and trusting space where you can explore your feelings, thoughts, and behaviors related to substance use.

Substance abuse counselors are bound by ethical and legal standards to keep your information confidential, and will only share information with others when required by law or when necessary to protect your safety or the safety of others.

Your privacy and confidentiality are of the utmost importance to your counselor, and you can rest assured that your personal information will be kept secure and confidential.

Don’t let fear or shame keep you from seeking the help you deserve. A substance abuse counselor is a valuable ally on the journey toward recovery and will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that addresses your unique needs and goals. You are worth the effort it takes to get help, and with the right support and guidance, you can overcome addiction and build a brighter future.

Substance Abuse can Impact Your Health

Substance and alcohol abuse can tear apart a person’s life in every way possible. It’s not just about feeling “out of it” or “having a good time.”

It’s much more severe than that.

Physically, addiction can take a toll on the body, leading to liver disease, heart disease, cancer, and a weakened immune system. It can also cause accidents and injuries that can be life-threatening. Mentally, addiction can cause intense emotional pain and cognitive issues such as:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Memory loss
• Impaired judgment

It can lead to severe mental health issues and, in some cases, even lead to psychosis.

Socially, addiction can destroy relationships, both personal and professional, and leave individuals feeling isolated and alone. It can cause financial difficulties, legal problems, and a loss of productivity at work.

The grip of substance and alcohol abuse can be overwhelming, but seeking help can be the first step toward healing. It takes immense strength and determination to confront addiction, but the rewards of a sober and healthy life are immeasurable.

Evidence-based Counseling Models

The counseling and therapy world is full of talk about “evidence-based” treatment models, but what does that really mean?

Essentially, it means that the therapy being used has been thoroughly tested in clinical trials and research, and has been proven to be the most effective. However, it’s important to note that this term doesn’t refer to just one type of therapy – there are various evidence-based approaches out there. Some of the ones that tend to show quick results include CBT, ERP, and Brief Solution Focused treatments.

CBT (Cognitive Behavior Therapy)

CBT can be a helpful approach in substance abuse treatment by helping patients identify and change the negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to substance use. CBT for substance abuse typically involves several key components.

First, patients work with a therapist to identify the triggers that lead to their substance use and develop coping strategies to manage those triggers. These coping strategies might include things like avoiding certain people or situations that trigger substance use, or developing new, healthier habits to replace old ones.

Second, patients learn how to recognize and challenge the negative thoughts and beliefs that may be fueling their substance use. For example, a person struggling with addiction might believe that they are “weak” or “worthless” and turn to substances to cope with those feelings. Through CBT, they can learn to challenge those negative beliefs and develop more positive self-talk and coping strategies.

Finally, patients in CBT for substance abuse may also work on developing healthy communication and relationship skills. Substance abuse often takes a toll on personal relationships, and learning to communicate effectively and build healthy relationships can be an important part of the recovery process.

Overall, CBT can be an effective tool in substance abuse treatment by helping patients develop the skills and strategies they need to maintain sobriety and improve their overall well-being.

ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention)

ERP therapy involves gradually exposing the patient to anxiety-provoking situations or triggers while preventing them from engaging in their usual compulsive behaviors or substance use.

In substance abuse treatment, ERP may be used to help patients confront and overcome their fears and triggers related to substance use. For example, a patient with a fear of relapse might work with a therapist to gradually expose themselves to situations that could trigger substance use, such as being around friends who are using drugs or alcohol.

During these exposures, the therapist would work with the patient to resist the urge to use substances and develop new coping strategies.

ERP can be a challenging therapy, as it involves confronting fears and anxieties head-on. However, it can also be highly effective in helping patients develop the skills and strategies they need to manage their substance use triggers and maintain sobriety over the long term.

As with all forms of therapy, the exact approach used in ERP will depend on the individual’s specific needs and goals, and therapy sessions may be tailored accordingly.

Tailor-made Counseling Models

We also believe that effective counseling is not just about following a specific model or technique. It’s an art form that requires diverse training and extensive clinical experience. That’s why we encourage counselors and patients to work together to regularly assess and reassess the patient’s progress throughout the counseling process.

Just because evidence-based therapy works for some people in a short amount of time doesn’t mean it’s the best fit for everyone.

Ultimately, the success of any therapy should be measured by whether it’s helping the patient achieve positive emotional, behavioral, and mental health – not just for the population at large.

Motivational Interviewing

This counseling approach is often associated with substance abuse therapy, but its principles can be applied in any context. The key to its effectiveness lies in its motivational aspect, which recognizes that lasting change must come from within.

Self-motivation is the driving force behind any successful transformation, and it supersedes external pressure, wishes, or opinions of others. In this therapy, the interviewing process involves skillful questioning by the therapist to help the client discover their own need, desire, and resources to change.

Unfortunately, mandated alcohol and drug treatment programs, such as those ordered by courts or employers, rely on external motivation. These programs impose the idea that the client or offender needs to “cut back,” quit, or modify certain behaviors. However, if change were that easy, there would be no need for counseling.

External motivation may work for a short period, but often, the change is temporary and lasts only as long as the individual is being monitored (probation, drug testing, etc.). When the external motivation for change is removed, the true test of commitment begins.

Motivational Interviewing seeks to tackle problem behavior by addressing the person’s internal motivation, promoting sustainable change that can withstand the test of time.

Faith-based Counseling

Faith-based counseling and therapy involve integrating one’s spiritual beliefs and faith into the process of personal growth and healing.

The term “faith-based” is commonly associated with the Christian faith in American culture. Christians from various denominations seek out faith-based counseling to have a common foundation with their counselor when it comes to life, relationships, and mental health.

We believe that counseling, psychology, psychiatry, and social work align with the principles of a Christian worldview.

For those seeking faith-based counseling, we offer an integrated approach that combines the client’s faith convictions and practices, current psychological research, and professional ethical standards. While many clients from the Christian community come to us for faith-based counseling, we welcome people of all faiths and respect each person’s decision on how much they want to integrate their personal faith and beliefs into the therapy process.