Struggling with the disease of addiction is known to cause stress and difficulty in every area of a person’s life. Trying to find a good substance abuse counselor to help you recover can be just as difficult. However, choosing to attend a rehab facility and receive substance abuse counseling may be one of the best decisions of your life.

Drug and alcohol counselors become your companion throughout your addiction recovery process. In addition, they will work with you to develop an individualized and effective treatment plan, monitor your progress, and set recovery goals. Oftentimes, substance abuse counseling is vital for an individual to maintain life-long sobriety.

If you or a loved one are struggling with the disease of addiction, continue reading to learn how to choose the right substance abuse counselor for you.

How Do I Find a Substance Abuse Counselor?

Before deciding on a specific substance abuse counselor, you must first be aware of all of your options. To begin, if you are using insurance to pay for counseling, you should find out which counseling centers accept your insurance in your area. Oftentimes, people with major insurance plans have an array of drug and alcohol counselors to choose from. In this case, you could ask friends, family, or doctor for recommendations. Addiction counselors may be associated with a private practice, mental health clinic, rehabilitation center, or even a hospital.

Information on specific counselors can be found online, typically on the counselor’s website. However, there are organizations such as Rehab Recovery Centers that work with you and your family to find the best addiction counselor that fits your unique needs.

If you believe you have found the right substance abuse counselor for you, speak with them or set up an initial meeting to make sure you are comfortable. Also, you should ask questions about how they will engage with you and what approach to therapy they have. Professional addiction counselors will be able to answer any questions you may have.

Things to Consider When Looking for a Substance Abuse Counselor

Once you meet your counselor and begin treatment, it should be easy to assess whether or not they are the right fit. While it is normal for counseling to be uncomfortable, you should be comfortable enough to confide in your therapist. If you are unable to be open with your counselor, treatment will not be effective. Consider the following questions when deciding whether a specific addiction counselor is right for you.

Do I Trust This Counselor?

Most importantly, the therapeutic relationship between counselor and patient must be based upon trust. For progress to be made, you have to feel comfortable being open and honest about your addiction and any other underlying issues. With that being said, you should look for a counselor that makes you feel safe, respected, and doesn’t make you feel judged.

Am I Comfortable with Them?

Relationships between therapists and patients are very personal. As a result, some people feel more comfortable with counselors of the same gender, opinions, and beliefs. In fact, gender-matching is a very common practice among addiction counseling, as it optimizes a patient’s comfort level. When patients are paired with substance abuse counselors of the same core beliefs (morals, religion, etc.), therapists are better able to create an individualized treatment plan for the patient.

What is Their Approach to Addiction Counseling?

Every substance abuse counselor has a different method of treating addiction. For example, some may follow the 12-step module, while others take a more holistic approach. Also, many counselors specialize in a specific type of therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). Some counselors may include your family by helping them learn about addiction and how to be supportive in your recovery journey.

You may already know what type of substance abuse counseling you want. However, many people are unsure. In this case, it’s best to find a counselor that you trust and rely on them to formulate your treatment plan based upon your specific needs.

What Are Their Credentials?

In many states, a degree is not necessary to become a certified alcohol and drug counselor (CDAC). However, certification requires three years of work experience and 300 hours of relevant secondary education. After someone becomes a CDAC, they can apply to become a nationally certified addiction counselor (NDAC). The NDAC certification offers higher levels of accreditation for individuals who have bachelor’s or master’s degrees.

Many addiction counselors have an associate or bachelor’s degree. On the other hand, some may have a PH.D. while others only have a high school diploma. The required education level varies state by state. Some people prefer a counselor with high levels of education and experience. However, it is important not to sacrifice comfort for credentials. Make sure you find a qualified counselor who you also feel comfortable enough to confide in.

Find a Substance Abuse Counselor Near You

Beginning substance abuse treatment opens up many doors of resources, support, and opportunity. Reputable drug and alcohol counseling centers employ licensed and experienced substance abuse therapists to support you through your recovery process. At Rehab Recovery Centers, we can help you get your addicted loved one the treatment they need.

Finding addiction counseling can be a difficult process, but our addiction experts can make it easier. Contact us today and speak with an addiction expert about how to find the perfect substance abuse counselor for you.