Counselors, like all people, have different credentials, educational backgrounds, and personalities. Not every single counselor will be a good fit for a substance abuse client. At the beginning of the search for a counselor, it’s beneficial to form an image in your mind of what you would expect from your counselor. Picking a top counselor is a matter of picking the top counselor for you very unique situation. For example, if you have a co-existing disorder along with substance abuse, you’ll need a counselor who can treat a dual diagnosis situation. Another counselor wouldn’t be able to help you as much of that one.
Before signing on for a counseling service, ask yourself a few questions about what you want out of therapy. What kind of therapeutic relationship do you envision having with the counselor and how will they help you transform your life and stay sober? What issues do you need to discuss in counseling? Asking yourself these questions is a good start, but the best way to get answers is to call a counseling service and ask all of the questions that might inspire you get into counseling as soon as possible.
Priority Considerations
Before hiring a counselor, it’s wise to consider a few very basic things that are at the top of the list of what’s important. The fact that you’re getting help is already a step in the right direction, but good counseling is important and not every single counselor will be a good fit for your needs. If you need a substance abuse counselor, many different factors will determine if they’re right for you. Before hiring a counselor, consider:
- Whether the counselor takes your insurance or has a fee rate that you can afford
- If the counselor has any special qualifications in the area of substance abuse
- If the counselor’s educational background is up to your standards
- Whether or not the counselor provides counseling for any mental health issues you may have as well
- If the counselor is conveniently located enough for you to get to your appointments on time
What a Top Counselor Looks Like
Counseling is a field where quality really counts. Little mistakes or oversights on the part of a counselor can negatively impact a client’s life, so you want to look for a counselor that seems conscientious and compassionate to your situation. Not only will they have an educational background and certifications and/or licenses that meet your expectations, but they will give you a feeling of assurance when you’re in their presence.
The way you feel when you talk to a counselor is your chief way to tell if you can work with them on your problems. Even if they have the best credentials in the world, it doesn’t do you any good if they don’t have a good manner with their clients. You should at the very least look at your counselor and feel confident talking to them about your issues and listening to them when they give you feedback and guidance.
Other Factors
The basics aren’t the only thing that will determine your choice of counselor. Price, credentials, and their work record will definitely play a part in whether or not they’re the right professional to help you, but there are other more personal factors to consider. For example, some things that might determine the counselor you select include the gender of the therapist, the way they interact with you, their setting (whether it’s a hospital setting or a small, private office). All of these things may contribute to choosing one counselor over another as the best one for you.
Whatever decision you make, getting into counseling for a substance abuse problem is a crucial step to getting well. It’s something you should not take lightly. By researching counselors and speaking with their staff personally to determine whether or not they might be able to help you, you are paving the way for a brighter future. No true change can come about until you make that first phone call, ask those first questions, and start debating on who is the professional who will help you get well.
When you’re ready to get started on a brighter tomorrow, you can call us today at 844-639-8371. Our counselors are compassionate, highly qualified, and committed to helping clients recover from substance abuse and mental health disorders. Just call us to see if we’re a good fit for your needs.