How to Find an Addiction Counselor

Deciding that you need a counselor to help you with your addiction is the first step towards successfully healing yourself. There are counselors associated with hospitals and treatment centers, and also therapists who specialize in addiction in private practices. Once you find a counselor, talk to him or her about the type of treatment setting that will work best for you. Find an addiction counselor by getting a referral, and make sure the counselor you choose specializes in your type of addiction.

Steps

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    You will want to seek a counselor who specializes in the substance or activity you are addicted to.
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    Your insurance company can provide you names of counselors who are covered under your plan.
    • Call the toll-free customer service number listed on your insurance card. You can also visit your insurer's website, where they should list covered providers in each specialty.
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    If you need help dealing with an addiction, ask your doctor for help in finding someone to treat you.
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    [1] If you are addicted to alcohol, try going to Alcoholics Anonymous, or Over re-acters Anonymous if you are addicted to food. The people you meet can refer you to a qualified counselor.
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    If you belong to a church, your pastor or other spiritual counselor can help you find help for your addiction. [2]
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    Most hospitals and health centers have doctors and counselors on staff who help with addiction problems.
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    Many counselors and doctors have privileges at any treatment centers in your area. Even if you are not planning to get help through the center, they might be able to put you in touch with one of their counselors.
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    Counselors and private practices often advertise their services.
    • Check your local Yellow Pages or other community directory.
    • Look online. Perform an Internet search using your specific addiction and the city or town you live in.
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    The Academy for Addiction Professionals, for example, has a website that will help you find a counselor in your area.
    • Go to Addictionacademy.com. Click on your state, and you will be given a list of counselors in your area.
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    Once you have a selection of addiction counselors, make sure to choose one with the experience and education to help you.
    • Choose a counselor who is licensed or certified in mental health or behavioral health. Look for a degree such as a licensed counselor in social work (LCSW), or a licensed professional counselor (LPC).
    • A good counselor should be a patient, empathetic listener, but they shouldn't take your treatment personally—look for someone who has a healthy level of professional detachment while still making you feel comfortable and valued. [3]
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      Tips

      • Look for a treatment center through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. This website is sponsored by the government and will help you find a facility that treats addictions.
        Thanks
      • Many states and cities have community clinics and agencies that will serve low-income populations as well as those with special needs, such as veterans, children and people with disabilities. If you are unsure of the services provided in your community, check with your state's Department of Health and Human Services or a similar agency.
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      Warnings

      • Remember that addictions can be serious illnesses with life-threatening consequences. If you are in danger, or you fear you will harm yourself or others because of your addiction, get help immediately by calling 9-1-1 or going directly to a local emergency room.
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      References

      1. ↑ Lauren Urban, LCSW. Licensed Psychotherapist. Expert Interview. 3 September 2018.
      2. ↑ Lauren Urban, LCSW. Licensed Psychotherapist. Expert Interview. 3 September 2018.
      3. ↑ Tiffany Douglass, MA. Founder, Wellness Retreat Recovery Center. Expert Interview. 20 March 2020.
      4. http://findtreatment.samhsa.gov/

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