DRUG & ALCOHOL COUNSELING TECHNIQUES

ESTABLISHING THE RELATIONSHIP

Demonstrate unconditional respect to the patient
Express empathy
Listen actively (paraphrase and accurately reflect both cognitive and emotional
content expressed by the patient)

FACILITATING PATIENT INVESTMENT
Use techniques to elicit the patients investment in the process, such as
Motivational interviewing (a process which helps the patient identify their own
motivations for change),
Values clarification and
Self-assessment of long-term and short-term consequences of alcohol

ESTABLISHING GOALS
Employ techniques to support the patient in setting these goals, such as
Assist the patient in identifying short-term objectives,
Explore personal strengths,
Identify available resources and personal capabilities and
Find support within the patient's environment
End result of this work is the development of a plan for change that includes
A relapse prevention plan (which is used to address both the external and
internal triggers to substance use)

ADVANCING PATIENT KNOWLEDGE
Use techniques that advance the patients knowledge about substance abuse in general,
and how this information applies to the patients personal experience of addiction. These
techniques include
Educating on the damaging effects of alcoholism,
Objective observations of the patient's thinking and behavioral patterns, and
Confrontation of inconsistencies between the patient's goals and behavior
Depending upon the individual's circumstances
Encourage the patient to join a support group such as AA or NA to help the
patient in gaining more information

ASSISTING IN THE PATIENT'S DEVELOPMENT
Address the issues that result in alcoholism with techniques such as:
Training in anger management,
Assertiveness development,
Stress management training,
Building communication skills,
Practicing emotional coping and
Building decision making skills