Addictions Counselling or Therapy / Psychoeducation
Addictions Counselling or Therapy
This is aimed at educating, guiding, and instructing the person with alcohol, drug, or other addiction problems, so they know what is necessary to do to recover. Some NEST professionals are trained to offer assessments and counselling or therapy to support the client in implementing skills and strategies that aid in the long-term management of their new lifestyle.
The most commonly used models include:
Counselling following the 12-step philosophy. The “Minnesota Model” emerged from the work of Bradley and Dr. Dan Anderson (Hazelden) when they began to form a “team” that included both alcoholics and non-alcoholics. This model implements elements of recovery based on abstinence and integrates the wisdom of Alcoholics Anonymous, one of the most effective popular movements of the 20th century, with educational and technical advances from a multidisciplinary group of professionals. It transcends one-dimensional models and focuses on the care of the mind, body, and spirit.
Education and Counselling for harm and risk reduction. Some clients use harm reduction as a pathway to achieve a goal of abstinence or moderation. This model starts where the client is and employs elements of mindfulness, advanced coping skills, and positive psychology. This model supports each individual in achieving change and their own goals.
Dual diagnosis treatment. This integrates interventions from the fields of mental health and addictions for people with a dual diagnosis. This approach can involve one or more professionals.