There is often confusion for people who are dealing with an addiction of whether or not they should participate in a 12-step support group, or if they should participate in therapy. Both have their potential benefits. 12-step support groups can give you a support system, is more likely to be
Overcoming an addiction is largely learning how to control the behavior itself. However further recovery consists of changing ineffective interpersonal patterns. This list addresses these commonly overlooked, yet important skills. 1. Listen to others. When dealing with an addictive behavior, it can be difficult to keep yourself from getting defensive
Running from shame is understandable. This avoidance can initially help you cope with the discomfort of the pain that underlies it. Facing it head-on is uncomfortable and intimidating. Thus, it seems like a “no-brainer” to choose the path that is initially less painful. However, with continued avoidance, the pain can
So you made a mistake, and your friend is angry at you. The first step is, obviously, to apologize. However, what if he doesn’t forgive you? Moving on is the next big step to tackle, but this is easier said than done. Assuming that you accept responsibility for what you
How to Overcome an Addiction This is an Infographic that displays How to Overcome an Addiction. This chart displays this using a model that is similar to the Stages of Change Model. Many times people are unaware that they have a problem. When they become aware, they often feel as
One of the biggest mistakes people make early on in their recovery is underestimating the power of the group. Our culture is one that values personal independence and free will. This often leads us to overestimate our ability to handle a change in our lives even when with a group
A more modern and controversial viewpoint on substance abuse and addiction is moderation management. As a therapist and counselor, I have been asked about my viewpoint on this very topic. I hope this article can help to provide a well-rounded perspective on a controversial topic, and provide a forum to
Knowing whether or not you are addicted to a particular behavior is not always easy to identify. Part of the problem with this lies in the vagueness of how addiction can be defined. This is one of the reasons why so many clients come into treatment being defensive. There can
In past two years we have lost two of our most iconic stars from the 80s. I will be honest and say that I was not a huge fan of most of Whitney Houston’s music. However I do recognize that her voice is one of the most memorable musical instruments
This is a link to a press release about compulsive gambling counseling in Dallas Texas. The article discusses how Vantage Point is offering group counseling to help clients overcome problem gambling. This group will help clients learn how to rebuild their relationships and regain trust. Clients learn how to create