How to Find a Therapist for Alcohol Abuse
According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, in 2009 nearly one-quarter of the population over the age of 12 participated in binge drinking regularly (approximately 59.6 million people). In addition, 17.1 million people of that same population were estimated to be “heavy drinkers.” Binge drinking and heavy drinking are, for many people, some of the early stages of alcohol abuse and alcoholism, and these numbers have shown no improvement since 2008. With these startling statistics at hand, it is apparent that the need for available therapy options for those suffering from alcohol addiction is as prevalent as ever.
Where to Find Alcohol Abuse Therapists
Substance abuse counselors work with individuals suffering with alcohol addiction to understand the psychological basis for their addiction, and help them establish positive behaviors that will help them remain sober after they have completed treatment. The following are locations where someone would have access to a substance abuse counselor:
- Halfway houses
- Homeless shelters
- Hospitals
- Inpatient and outpatient therapy (individual or group)
- Jails and prisons
- Drug and alcohol treatment centers
- Social welfare agencies
- State and community departments
Alcohol Abuse Therapy Options
In addition to substance abuse counseling, there are a variety of different therapies, programs and specialists a patient can see or attend regarding their addiction.
- Community-Based Treatment Programs. Community-based groups can be used in conjunction with another type of alcohol treatment (inpatient or outpatient programs, for example), or on their own for those suffering from more moderate addictions. They allow patients to interact with others struggling with the same issues that they are and provide a strong support system for recovering alcoholics. These treatment programs are widely varied in term of methodologies and the types of people they are geared towards.
- Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET). MET is a patient-centered approach to therapy that encourages the individual to recognize the benefits of achieving sobriety. The objective is to use these possible positive outcomes to motivate the patient. The main job of the therapist is to keep communication open and support the patient. This technique can be practiced privately or in a treatment program.
- Private Interventions. This type of intervention is done with a counselor or medical doctor. Through the course of a few appointments, the individual discusses their addiction with this person and is encouraged to enter into a rehabilitation facility.
Need Help Finding a Therapist for Alcohol Abuse?
If you or someone you love is struggling with alcoholism, please call our toll-free number. We are available 24 hours a day to answer any questions you might have about alcohol addiction rehabilitation and help you organize a treatment program.
