Therapy options for alcoholism are services specifically geared toward alcoholics. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, over 14 million adults 18 and older suffer from alcohol use disorder. This disorder comes with distinct characteristics, requiring specific therapies to reduce the risk of relapse. Here are some reasons why different alcoholic therapy options are important.

Identification of Underlying Issues

Most people with AUD suffer from underlying issues or co-occurring disorders, like depression. Alcohol therapy options dive deep into these issues, helping address the root cause of alcoholism and offering dual treatment options. Therapists are specially trained to help alcoholics work through these complex circumstances.

Emotional Support

Recovery comes with a wide range of emotions. Alcohol no longer numbs feelings of guilt or shame. Regret boils to the surface bringing about anger and frustration. During this time, alcoholics must receive the emotional support they need to make it through the recovery journey. Therapists may also make referrals to other places that can offer support.

Education

Alcoholic therapy can help educate individuals on the various aspects of alcoholism. They can help patients learn about the consequences of alcoholism, such as cirrhosis. Most people think this will never happen to them, but therapists can help alcoholics realize it’s possible. This can help them find the motivation necessary to continue on a path of sobriety.

Coping Skills

While everyone drinks for a different reason, it’s common for people to address problems with a drink. Alcohol can melt the stress, and the sadness fades into the moonlight. However, when the alcohol is gone, it’s essential to discover new ways to cope with those same emotions. A therapist can help you learn to identify and address feelings to ensure you don’t pick up a drink to deal with them.

Individualized Treatment

No two people are the same. While one person may grab a beer to cope with depression or anxiety, another may head to the bar to escape an abusive home life. Others may enjoy drinking. There are various co-occurring disorders that therapists see. This calls for every patient to have an individualized treatment plan. Alcoholic therapy can provide that.

These are a few things that make therapy for alcoholism so important. Alcoholic therapists work with patients to develop the coping skills, accountability, and everything else they need to help reduce the risk of relapse. They can help you or a loved one learn how to love life without alcohol. Contact Clearview Counseling Center to learn more about how we can help today.