Duties of a Substance Abuse Counselor
People who abuse substances such as drugs or alcohol often need professional assistance to overcome their addiction. Substance abuse counselors are specifically trained to help individuals attain sobriety and lead more productive lives. Counselors may work in private practice, clinics or substance abuse treatment centers. Most counselors have a master's degree in a counseling-related field. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual income of substance abuse counselors was $37,030 as of 2008.
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Identifying Behaviors
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Substance abuse counselors work to identify patterns of behavior by asking the patients questions or having them fill out a survey. The purpose is to determine how frequently a substance is used and if there are specific thoughts or events that trigger the use. This helps the counselor to determine the proper course of treatment.
Providing Therapy
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Once counselors determine the proper course of treatment, they conduct therapy sessions with the patient. This involves talking with the patient to try to solve underlying life problems that may have led to the substance abuse. Counselors also help patients to create a new lifestyle that does not include substance abuse.
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Group Therapy
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Substance abuse counselors may also lead group therapy sessions. In group therapy, several patients who are dealing with substance abuse gather to candidly discuss their problems. The purpose is to encourage patients to feel more comfortable in speaking out by encouraging camaraderie and the realization that they are not alone in their battle.
Drug Testing
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It is not uncommon for a substance abuser to revert to old behaviors during the course of treatment, especially if a serious addiction is involved. Substance abuse counselors conduct periodic or random drug testing to determine if the patient has started to use again. If so, the counselor may need to alter the course of treatment.
Monitoring Progress
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Counselors monitor the progress of the patient as therapy continues. Each patient is different, so there is no set time period in which recovery occurs. If a therapy approach isn't working, the counselor will need to determine another course of action. Once the patient is able to resume a normal lifestyle without the substance, counselors provide follow-up treatment to prevent relapse.
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References
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