Individuals with substance related disorders are treated using a biopsychosocial approach with the primary goal of maintaining abstinence from alcohol and/or recreational drug use.
TREATMENT
As in psychotherapy treatment, generally, ABS focuses on resolution of symptoms and on the teaching, development, and implementation of accommodation and coping strategies. Therapy is provided within both individual and group settings. Education, as stated above, is also a critical and continuous component of treatment. Treatment begins with an awareness of substance abuse issues and factors that influence the occurrence of relapse. In treatment, individuals not only learn to recognize and identify cravings and urges, but also factors that intensify those urges. Psychoeducation is an important component of ABS, where individuals learn about the physiological, psychological and social consequences of drug/alcohol use. Skills related to resisting temptations, tolerating distress in an adaptive manner and challenging cognitions which support drug /alcohol use are discussed and practiced in sessions. In addition to assisting clients in developing coping skills to better manage urges and negative affect, ABS also helps individuals develop a repertoire and routine of healthy and rewarding experiences.
BENEFITS
The benefits of ABS treatment include: