If you’re considering checking yourself into a treatment center, you might be apprehensive about what you’ll encounter. That’s perfectly normal. You’re dealing with big challenges, and entering a completely foreign environment may seem like too much to handle.
Everyone at the addiction recovery center was hired to help you make gains in your rehabilitation. Their job is to make the rehab process as safe, comfortable, and workable as possible so that you gain the strength, commitment, and knowledge necessary to make it last.
So, to take some of the mystery out of the drug treatment experience, here is a snapshot of who you may meet in an alcohol and opioid recovery center and what they can do for you.
Admissions
The admissions team’s job is to know their center’s programs inside and out so they can help you narrow down which program is right for you after their intake assessment. They will likely ask you questions about your situation and your goals.
The admissions team can also help you understand the process so you can plan the logistics appropriately, such as making travel plans or arranging child or pet care while focusing on your health.
Medical Professionals
Quality rehab centers will employ medical personnel who can see to your comfort and safety while going through withdrawals. Detoxing without medical intervention can be dangerous, even deadly. Medical professionals can also prescribe and administer medications as needed.
Physicians
The first step in any drug treatment program is to get you over the withdrawal hurdle. Detoxification can put significant strain on the heart and nervous system, however. People who detox on their own often struggle to stick with their goals because it becomes too uncomfortable. Some even have heart attacks or strokes because the withdrawals are so severe.
In a detox facility, a doctor can monitor your vital signs, administer medications to keep your body functioning properly, and limit discomfort so you complete the process. They’re there to keep you safe.
They are also beneficial if there are multiple diagnoses. If your drug addiction is in response to chronic pain, the doctor can help you find ways to manage the pain without narcotics or alcohol.
They can help address nutrient deficiencies caused by your addiction and give you the best possible start on your new life.
Psychiatrists
A psychiatrist is a medical doctor specializing in mental health. They can assess, diagnose, and medicate patients in their care. Since many people who have a substance use disorder are using drugs to deal with mental health issues, some undiagnosed, it is important to have a full evaluation to discover any underlying conditions that could complicate your recovery.
A psychiatrist usually handles the medical side while working with a psychologist who will help you with talk therapy. The psychiatrist will meet with you periodically to check that the medicine is performing as expected, that you aren’t experiencing avoidable adverse reactions, and that you’re at the dosage that is most beneficial for your condition.
Nurses
Nurses are the backbone of any medical facility. They monitor you for signs of discomfort, keep the doctor apprised of any changes in your condition, administer prescribed medications, and help you see to your physical needs when you’re feeling weak or overwhelmed.
There are several different types of nurses with different levels of education and expertise. Their duties range from basic vitals checks to diagnosing conditions and prescribing medication.
Mental Health Experts
In addition to the physical health specialists, your center will have mental health experts, those who can help you gain the skills and understanding necessary to overcome your addiction. These professionals may include:
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists
Addiction can strain family and romantic relationships. These therapists can help you piece together broken relationships, rebuild trust, and help you find common ground. The skills you learn will help you create rewarding, enriching relationships moving forward.
Counselors
Counselors help patients overcome specific hurdles, usually through talk therapy and skills development. They could help you discover coping techniques and strategies to deal with your addiction so you can stay sober when you go home.
Psychologists
Whereas counselors usually have master’s degrees, psychologists have doctoral degrees. They focus on diagnostics/evaluation and treat patients who have significant mental health conditions that may underlie addiction.
Certified Addiction Specialists
Addiction specialists are clinical specialists trained to help people overcome addictions to drugs, alcohol, food, gambling, or sex.
Conclusion
The staff listed above is designed to work as a team to help you move closer to your goal of lasting sobriety. Each has a role to play, and together, they offer you the best opportunity to get and stay clean. Don’t let the newness of the situation deter you from reaching out for help.
As you consider potential treatment centers, ask about the credentials and background of the staff. Here at our substance abuse facilities in Utah and Idaho, many of our staff members are in recovery themselves. Because they have walked your same path, they know how to help you through the tough times and support you in your recovery. Contact us for more information.