Substance abuse can take many forms, though generally, it is separated into alcohol addiction and drug addiction. Though alcohol is an individual substance, the term “drug” is broad and may be in reference to any number of substances. These drugs may be legal or illicit. The most common addiction to a legal drug is seen with nicotine. Some prescription drugs can be highly addictive as well.

Most notably, opioid abuse has been labeled an epidemic across North America and this includes pain relievers such as codeine, fentanyl, oxycodone, hydrocodone, methadone, morphine, and more. In addition, an illegal opioid, heroin, has been causing an increasing number of deaths over the recent years in North America. Other frequently used illicit drugs not classified as an opioid include psilocybin (magic mushrooms), LSD, MDMA, cocaine, methamphetamine, and many more. Substance abuse is not a one-size-fits-all, as addiction affects everyone differently.

A substance abuse counselor may offer services in one-on-one meetings or group sessions with others experiencing substance abuse. Counselors address the emotional and behavioral factors of your life and, through discussion, provide client education tool development that can be used in your daily life when met with difficult circumstances. Substance abuse counselors are specialized in that their clientele focus is on those struggling with substance abuse issues. These counselors may have special certifications relative to substance abuse and can provide more knowledge-based treatment that a general counselor may not be able to. Substance abuse counselors are well versed in behaviors specific to those dealing with substance abuse and are trained to provide the help that is effective for this group of people.

While all counselors can provide referrals to organizations and social services that provide essential needs, these places may not be optimal for substance users. For example, specific shelters may require sobriety and would not be suitable for a client actively using substances. Further, substance abuse counselors can recommend you to rehabilitation services and supervised injection sites to reduce the chance of overdose and or death.

There are numerous treatment approaches to substance abuse, and one treatment that works for you may not work for someone else. The symptoms, presentation, and root cause behind substance abuse and psychiatric illnesses vary significantly amongst individuals; therefore, treatment will be highly tailored. The primary goal of substance abuse treatment is to reach sobriety and maintain sobriety, though many contributing factors need to be addressed to treat the addiction fully.

It is important to remember that treatment for substance addiction is not short-term and will most likely need to be continued for years. Many clients find NA (narcotics anonymous) and AA (alcoholics anonymous) meetings helpful in maintaining forward progress and preventing relapse. Recovery is not a linear process, and drawbacks are both expected and accepted; what is vital is perseverance and willingness to keep trying. With the combined effects of counseling, medically assisted detoxification, alternative medication supervision, rehabilitation center services, and more, treatment for substance abuse is entirely possible.

At Best Fit Counselling and Psychiatry, our top healthcare providers work to create a comfortable and caring experience to optimize our services. We are dedicated to providing numerous counseling services, including drug and alcohol addiction counseling, to meet all of your needs. In addition, we strive to improve your quality of life and mental health, so please, do not hesitate to reach out to our office. Appointments can be booked online or by phone; sessions can take place in the office or remotely via telehealth services. We look forward to meeting you and to help you through this challenging time. We serve patients anywhere in Michigan. Licensed in Ann Arbor MI, Pittsfield Charter TWP MI, Ypsilanti MI, Saline MI, Dexter MI, Scio TWP MI and surrounding areas.