The Philosophy Of Drug Addiction Treatment Centers

Although the overall philosophy of drug abuse treatment centers is to help a person overcome their addiction, there are a number of other philosophies or treatment approaches at work. These philosophies can vary depending on the type of treatment and the individual counselors treatment approach.

A Therapeutic Alliance

The philosophy of a therapeutic alliance is one that many counselors and treatment centers share. According to the National Library of Medicine, the therapeutic alliance is a predictor in patient retention and treatment success.

The earlier the partnership between therapist and addict forms the more likely the treatment will be successful. A therapeutic alliance is a necessary part of drug addiction treatment. The bond of trust between patient and counselor helps to establish a trusting relationship.

It is the philosophy of most drug treatment centers to form a lasting therapeutic alliance. This increases a counselor’s ability to help the addict.

Agents of Change

Most counselors and rehab facilities also need to be agents of change. Addiction treatment requires you to change the behaviors that lead to the addiction. As part of the agent of change philosophy counselors give treatment assignments to connect with other addicts in a supportive environment, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse.

The belief is that this supportive connection is essential to the treatment of addiction. Without support and a supportive environment, the treatment is likely to fail.

Holistic Philosophy

Drug addiction treatment is no longer just treating the symptoms of drug addiction. Many drug addiction treatment centers now approach the whole person rather than just the symptom of addiction. This philosophy views the addiction as a symptom of a greater problem.

Finding that greater problem and treating it is at the core of this approach. It treats the addict and the addicts life circumstances as a whole.

Drug addiction treatment centers each have their individual philosophies. Some have combined philosophies for maximum patient benefit. It is important to find the treatment center that has a philosophy that works for you and your situation.