Still, in general, counselors help address specific issues, usually in the short-term, with advice and counseling. Therapists help clients identify the underlying psychological roots of behavior through psychotherapy methods, and therapy tends to be longer term. Examining the pros and cons of continuing to use substances, a technique known as motivational interviewing, is often used by addiction treatment professionals as part of the assessment process. Generally, when people talk about ‘substance abuse,’ they are referring to the use of illegal drugs. They can cloud judgment, distort perceptions, and alter reaction times, increasing the risk of accidents and injury. Growing up in families in which drinking or using drugs is common or normalized also places one at a greater risk for developing a substance use disorder.
How Do I Find the Right Substance Abuse Counselor near Me?
- However, it doesn’t take much alcohol to reach a harmful level of drinking, and that is when alcohol use can turn into alcohol abuse.
- The difference between counseling and therapy is not always distinct.
- A counselor or psychologist may refer patients with more complex or serious needs to a psychiatrist, especially if they consider the patient may be in danger.
- This may be the International Certification & Reciprocity Consortium’s (IC&RC) Alcohol and Drug Counselor Examination or Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor Examination.
It enabled me to teach, see patients and work in various types of institutions. Furthermore, I wanted to develop more of a specialized approach in the empirically supported treatment of adults, specifically in cognitive behavior therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy. Psychologists must earn a doctorate in psychology, either a Ph.D. or a Psy.D. Generally focuses more on applied psychology practice, while a Ph.D. program emphasizes research in psychology and pedagogy.
Certified Substance Abuse Counselor vs Therapist vs Psychologist: Which is Right for You?
And therapists who are inexperienced with substance use disorders can overlook warning signs of relapse and fail to provide essential interventions. Often, substance abuse counselors will focus on addressing complications in your life caused by substance use and on helping you develop relapse prevention skills. They’ll only delve into the issues underlying your substance use after they’ve helped you gain some stability in your recovery. An addiction counselor (substance abuse counselor) provides expert care and support to people who have substance use disorder (SUD), like alcohol use disorder or opioid use disorder.
- Licensed substance abuse counselors can offer individual substance abuse counseling in a private practice setting, and they are a great choice if that’s what you’re looking for.
- As you can see, there are a few important differences between a certified substance abuse counselor, therapist, and psychologist.
- If you or a loved one is suffering from addiction, New Man Interventions would love to help you get sober.
- Trusted sources can give you a personal touch, suggesting counselors they know and respect.
Career Outlook
Substance abuse counselors, also known as addiction counselors, are licensed professionals trained in psychology, human behavior, chemical dependency and therapeutic methods. These therapists help people with behavioral disorders (primarily substance use) by talking through the complexities and causes of their addiction. Substance abuse substance abuse counseling counselors will work one-on-one with clients to develop goals and strategies for pursuing sobriety — all in a compassionate and confidential environment. People who choose a career in addiction counseling can work in a variety of settings, from hospitals and rehabilitation centers to halfway houses, prisons and private practices.
How can I find help for PTSD?
- Currently, there are no hard rules about social media presence, other than to not engage with your patients on these platforms.
- You can also call a behavioral health crisis or information line for more help and guidance.
- These educational requirements can affect the psychologist vs. therapist vs. counselor decision.
- While you must have a master’s degree or higher to work in these roles, most master’s programs do not require a specific undergraduate degree.
- Outpatient programs can be in-person or using telehealth (meaning care online or over the phone).
Risks of Substance Misuse
