What is Substance Abuse Therapy?

The term substance abuse usually refers to the excessive use of drugs or alcohol, although it may sometimes contain other substances as well. Often, substance abuse is seen as a condition or disease that requires treatment, and substance abuse therapy is just one type of treatment that can be effective. A person who is being treated for substance abuse may engage in group or individual therapy. Addicts can learn how to identify destructive behaviour and how to avoid it; practicing positive behaviour in role-play sessions, and learn how to use support systems.

Often, substance abuse treatment is aimed at helping addicts work through denial. In many cases, people who are addicts deny there is any problem with their behaviour and claim that they can stop using the substance at any time. Unfortunately, however, they are usually able to end substance abuse on their own. In fact, they can't even try because they don't believe they have a problem. Therapy Substance abuse can help a person recognize their problem and begin taking steps towards change.

Sometimes substance abuse therapy involves knowing about destructive behaviors and their consequences. This type of therapy can help an abuser recognize and confess to his unacceptable behaviour. It can also help an abuser see how his behaviour can prove harmful not only to himself but to others as well. Therapy Substance abuse may aim to help abusers end destructive behaviour patterns and replace them with positive role models.

Role-playing can be a part of substance abuse therapy in some cases. For example, the abuser may engage in exercises in which someone tries to persuade him to use drugs, alcohol, or other substances. If so, the abuser can practice rejection in an attempt to build his rejection skills.

Support is usually an important part of substance abuse therapy as well. Fighting substance abuse problems can be challenging and require a lasting commitment. Therapy Substance abuse can provide the support a person needs to keep looking.

In many cases, a person who is struggling to end their substance abuse can engage in one-on-one therapy. This means that his sessions involve meeting with his therapist alone, although the entry of another party may be sought on occasion. An individual may also engage in group therapy, which can take place with family members or other loved ones present. It can also involve sharing therapy sessions with other addicts. Sometimes a person can engage in both individual and group sessions.