What to Expect from Drug and Alcohol Counseling

Many people who are struggling with drug and alcohol abuse feel like they’re alone. 

They may not know what to expect from their first counseling session or how long it will take before treatment starts working. Read on to learn the benefits of getting help and tips on what you should be looking for in a counselor.

Why Consider Counseling?

Many people think that if they’re not addicted to drugs or alcohol, they don’t need counseling. This isn’t true; anyone who is using drugs or alcohol can benefit from it. In many cases, someone can have an alcohol or drug problem without it drastically taking over their lives or it is considered an addiction. Counseling helps those who use drugs and alcohol understand their substance use, how to limit it, and how to effectively manage their lives and responsibilities without letting it take over.

A drug or alcohol problem may also be a symptom of an underlying issue. Counseling can help to identify these issues and find ways to address them that will improve long-term health and wellness. In addition, counseling offers support for people who have been diagnosed with substance abuse disorders as well as their loved ones. It provides a safe place to talk about the difficulties of living with this disease and how to cope with symptoms such as cravings.

What Should I Expect from My First Counseling Session?

The counselor is going to ask you for a lot of information about your substance abuse, including why you think it started, how it has affected your life, and what potential consequences scare you the most. They also want to know about your personal life, such as your family and social support systems, how you handle stress, and how you manage problems in your life. The counselor will use this information to create a treatment plan that’s tailored specifically for you.

How Long Does Counseling Take to Work?

Counseling is not a one-time event; it’s something that you do on a regular basis to maintain your sobriety. How long it takes for counseling to work varies from person to person. Some people experience relief after just a few sessions, while others require more time. The important thing is that you stick with it and don’t give up when you don’t see results right away.

What Should I Look For in a Counselor?

There are several things that you should look for when searching for someone to help guide your path toward sobriety. You will want someone who is knowledgeable about the types of drugs and alcohol that you use so they can choose treatments like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or motivational enhancement therapies (MET). Other factors that are important include the counselor’s training, experience, and success rate with clients who have struggled with addiction.

Another important factor in picking a counselor is how well you get along with them. If you cannot see yourself trusting and opening up to this person, it will be difficult for them to help you. It’s also important that they are available when you need them and that their office hours fit with your schedule.

How Can I Find a Counseling Center?

The best way to get started is by talking about your options with someone you trust like a family member or friend. You may also be able to contact your primary care physician for a referral to someone that they recommend. If you have a mental health or substance abuse disorder already, your insurance company may be able to help with referrals as well. If you live in Kentucky, consider checking out Ensite at one of its three locations for some of the highest-quality drug and alcohol counseling in the state. The experienced counselors at Ensite offer a variety of treatment options, including outpatient therapy to help you maintain sobriety during daily life as well as group therapy, family counseling, and DUI programs.