Over the decades, there have been many approaches to the treatment of addiction. One of the most important advances in counseling, person-centered therapy, has formed a basis for many other types of addiction therapy programs. Based on the work of Carl Rogers, person-centered therapy is based on the idea that each person understands their own life best and, given the proper positive encouragement, can discover effective solutions to their own conflicts. In the modern era, clinicians and counselors are more focused than ever before on their clients as individuals rather than simply treating symptoms or resolving problems.
What Is Person-Centered Therapy?
In person-centered therapy, the client directs the discussion while the therapist’s role is to listen and acknowledge the client’s experiences. During person-centered therapy in an addiction therapy program, clients are encouraged to talk about their experiences and feelings in hopes that, as they do, they will discover insights that will help them understand how addiction has been operating in their life. This is not to say that the therapist is a passive bystander in the process. The therapist is engaged in active listening, as well as showing positive regard for the client. The therapist allows the client to build a positive and trusting relationship, which provides the correct environment for the client to express themselves fully and feel comfortable relating insights.
How Does Person-Centered Therapy Help in Addiction Treatment?
Some of the commonly-used therapeutic techniques in addiction therapy are built on the same concepts as person-centered therapy, such as motivational interviewing. Also, the client and the care team must work together in an addiction therapy program in order to set treatment goals and decide when a new level of care is appropriate. In person-centered therapy, the client is considered the authority when it comes to their own needs and is also the one who directs the process. This is very much in line with principles of addiction treatment, which encourage clients to self-direct the recovery process with the support and encouragement of their therapists and members of their sober community.
Is Person-Centered Therapy Right for You?
Person-centered therapy is a very common therapeutic method, and it works well for many people. For people who have experienced trauma, person-centered therapy can help them feel comfortable rebuilding a trusting relationship and talking about the experiences that have harmed them at their own speed. People who are dealing with conditions such as anxiety or depression can also be helped by person-centered therapy. However, individuals who are living with severe symptoms of mental illness may require more direction during the therapeutic process and, therefore, may not benefit as much from person-centered therapy until symptoms are reduced by other means.
Other Types of Therapy Used in Addiction Therapy Programs
Even though person-centered therapy is very common, it is by no means the only kind of therapeutic treatment likely to be found in an addiction treatment program. Some of the other types of therapy are:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
- Motivational interviewing
- Group therapy
- Therapeutic activities such as art, music, or nature therapy
- Wellness therapies such as yoga, meditation, or massage
Serenity Grove Offers Addiction Therapy Programs in Athens, Georgia
At Serenity Grove, we utilize a holistic, individualized approach to treating addiction and mental health conditions. Our clinicians have the training and experience to help clients discover the root causes of addiction in their lives and start resolving them. We are committed to helping each client maintain a lasting recovery. If you or someone you care about has been struggling with addiction or mental health issues, don’t wait. Reach out to us today at 844.904.3485.
