by Amber Lesovoy

Created on: May 23, 2009   Last Updated: January 12, 2010

Taking the plunge into addiction counseling

An individual's initial leap into addiction counseling can be treacherous, and truly daunting. However, those first steps can also signal a new start for one's future path into, and maintaining sobriety. Whether you came to the decision to attend addiction counseling of your own accord, or at the encouragement of loved ones, perseverance will take you far.

Trust is key

Trust is a huge aspect in any type of therapeutic setting, but even more so in addiction counseling. Recovering addicts have serious trust issues stemming from abuse or other traumatic events in their youth or while under the influence. Counseling is about honesty; if the client finds himself unable to openly discuss feelings with his counselor due to a lack of trust, little is likely to be accomplished. Trust in one's self and in the professionals working with each client is key to a client's coming to terms with his alcoholism, ultimately overcoming it.

Honesty vs. Shame

We all have some aspect of our lives that we feel a degree of shame about, but recovering addicts often have serious, deep rooted shame as a result of their addictions. It's extremely painful to admit when one has done something terribly wrong while under the influence of alcohol, but it is a necessary step in addiction counseling. It will be difficult for a client to go into detail about the various events they feel shame about, however with time and a therapist or counselor who inspires their client's trust, it will happen. You should never feel that you are being pushed into revealing a particularly difficult event, or that you are being judged. A good therapist will keep their client feeling at ease. They may offer advice on aspects of the event, but it should never be harsh or judgmental. If a client feels that the counselor is pushing too hard or sending a message of disapproval, the client can and should seek referral to a different provider.

You're not "stuck"

Both clients entering addiction counseling, and their therapists, are human, and as such may not always "click" with one another. A therapist should ideally be professional, courteous, and never express disapproval or disdain for their clients, but this is not always the case. If you don't feel comfortable with a provider, do not let feelings of guilt or self doubt keep you from seeking a different therapist. You're absolutely not "stuck" with a particular provider. There are many options for addiction counseling,

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