5 Common Therapies Used in Rehab

The idea of entering an addiction treatment program can seem intimidating. Even if your loved one is ready to seek help, you may not know exactly what types of services are offered at a rehab facility.

There are a variety of therapies and treatments that facilities use to help individuals reach their treatment goals, but certain services are more common than others.

Individual, or One-on-one Counseling

Traditional, one-on-one counseling is an important part of treating substance abuse because it can help your loved one identify the causes of their substance abuse. By making that identification, other treatment options become more effective, as your loved one will better understand the underlying cause of their substance abuse.

Talking to a psychotherapist or a counselor gives your loved one the opportunity to look back at their old habits and feelings and determine what exactly contributed to their addiction.

Medication

The withdrawal symptoms from certain substances, such as alcohol or opiates, can be severe. Even if the symptoms are not dangerous to one’s health, they may be very uncomfortable and painful. That is why a medically supervised detox program can help.

In some cases, medication is part of the treatment process. It may help reduce withdrawal symptoms or be an important part of treating other health concerns contributing to substance abuse. Your loved one may be using drugs or alcohol to help chronic pain, which would be much better managed with a combination of medicine and therapy.

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy

Cognitive-behavioral therapy, also known as CBT, focuses on changing the thought processes so that substance abuse is less tempting.

By identifying the factors that led to drug or alcohol use, it is then possible to trace the thought patterns that follow the substance abuse. CBT strives to change the way your loved one thinks so that it is possible to replace substance abuse behaviors with healthy alternatives. For example, if substance abuse is related to stress, then the goal may be to better cope with stress through exercise or meditation.

Support Groups

Supportive programs such as group therapy, family therapy, and aftercare services can help to develop a support system that encourages long-term sobriety. Support groups are useful because they help your loved one cope with their own feelings through the experience of others who are experiencing or have experienced substance abuse.

Depending on the treatment facility, the support groups can vary. Some programs may offer a 12-step program, while others also offer a more holistic approach.

Holistic Treatments

Holistic treatments are therapies that focus on incorporating more than just the physical elements of substance abuse recovery. The treatments may include:

• Exercise programs
• Nutritional therapy
• Massage therapy
• Meditation
• Similar alternative solutions to pain, stress and other risk factors

Along with the alternative treatment approach, a holistic program incorporates traditional treatments, spiritual belief systems, and appropriate medical care.

Therapy is an important part of treating substance abuse and addiction because it helps identify the causes, behaviors, and situations that contribute to continued substance abuse. It also helps your loved one develop coping mechanisms for staying sober when they are no longer in rehab. Depending on the substance and the health concerns, the appropriate therapy for any individual may vary.

Sources:

1. http://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/drugfacts/treatment-approaches-drug-addiction, http://www.helpguide.org/mental/drug_abuse_addiction_rehab_treatment.htm
2. http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/info/addiction/treatment-for-addiction.php