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6
Counseling
• Counseling is an important part of treatment for many patients
and is usually recommended with medications.
• Counseling should be provided by a qualified clinician.
Patients may receive counseling in the same place where they
receive medication or in another location.
• Counseling helps patients address personal, social or
other problems that may contribute to their addiction.
Examples can be:
• Increasing motivation for treatment and recovery
• Difficult situations at work or home
• Building a support system of people who are supportive
of recovery
• All of the clinicians involved in patient treatment should work
together to coordinate care.
• In addition to counseling, patients are encouraged to join
support groups that include others who are also in recovery.
• Counseling and support groups are not limited to the patient.
There are also many counseling services and support groups
for family and friends of those dealing with addiction.
Remember, addiction affects friends and family as well.
Support from Family and Friends
• Families and friends can play a key role in supporting their
loved ones to achieve a long-lasting recovery.
• It is very important that patients avoid the people, places and
other things that trigger their desire to use alcohol or drugs.
They also need to learn how to respond to those triggers
without using alcohol or drugs. Friends and family can provide
support and encouragement throughout this process.
