Individual Therapy in Orange County, CA
Laguna Shores in Orange County, California offers addiction therapy services to help people effectively cope with their conditions, and live a heathier lifestyle.
While there may be various goals in individual therapy, the main goal is increasing the understanding of one’s thoughts and behavior patterns to increase well-being. Individual therapy teaches clients to manage stress, make healthy decisions, set goals, and become more self-aware.
History of Psychotherapy
While the Greek’s understanding was limited, they did recognize the benefits of using positive and encouraging words with people with mental health issues. They also had many false beliefs, such as bathing treats depression and only women struggle with hysteria.
Mental health treatments were often inhumane until the 18th century. In 1773, North America saw its first asylum, and by the end of the 19th century, almost every town had an asylum. Unfortunately, some doctors used restraints and violent treatments, causing many people never to leave the asylum.
Although many informal types of therapy have been practiced throughout history, Wilheim Wundt and Sigmund Freud opened the first psychological research lab near the end of the 19th century. This laid the foundation for psychoanalysis or the talking cure.
In the 20th century, there were many therapeutic approaches. They were inspired by the schools of thought at the time, including psychoanalysis, behaviorism, cognitivism, and systems psychology. In the 21st century, treatments include mindfulness and building healthy coping skills.
Benefits of Individual Therapy
There are a number of groups that practice the 12-step program principles like Alcoholics Anonymous. Examples include:
- Cocaine Anonymous
- Co-Anon, a group for the friends and family of addicts
- Debtors Anonymous
- Gamblers Anonymous
- Heroin Anonymous
- Marijuana Anonymous
- Neurotics Anonymous
- Overeaters Anonymous
- Sexaholics Anonymous
- Survivors of Incest Anonymous
- Workaholics Anonymous
These are just a few examples of some of the many groups that utilize the 12 steps in recovery.
Be Brave. Get Help.
Principles of Individual Therapy for Addiction
Individual therapy for addiction takes a person-centered approach, recognizing that each person’s experience with addiction is unique. Therapists work together with clients to understand their specific needs, motivations, and goals for recovery.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is often a central component of addiction therapy. It helps clients identify and change unhealthy thought patterns and behaviors contributing to substance abuse. Clients learn strategies to manage cravings, avoid triggers, and develop healthier coping skills.
Therapists use motivational interviewing techniques to help clients explore their reasons for change, increase their motivation to quit or reduce substance use, and set achievable goals for recovery.
Addiction therapy places a strong emphasis on relapse prevention strategies. Clients learn to recognize early warning signs of relapse, develop coping strategies to avoid triggers and create a relapse prevention plan.
Therapists provide clients with education about addiction, its effects on the brain and body, and the consequences of substance abuse. Clients gain a better understanding of addiction’s physical, psychological, and social aspects.
Addiction therapy often explores underlying issues contributing to substance abuse, such as trauma, co-occurring mental health disorders (dual diagnosis), family dynamics, or past experiences. Addressing these issues is crucial for long-term recovery.
Clients are encouraged to actively participate in their recovery and make choices that support their well-being. Therapists empower clients to believe in their ability to change and maintain sobriety.
Clients learn and practice essential life skills, such as stress management, communication, problem-solving, and emotional regulation. These skills are vital for maintaining recovery and leading a fulfilling life.
Many individuals with addiction have experienced trauma. Therapists should be sensitive to trauma issues and provide trauma-informed care when necessary.
Therapists assess and monitor clients’ progress throughout the treatment process. Adjustments to the treatment plan may be made as needed to ensure effectiveness.
ongoing support and relapse prevention strategies to maintain their recovery over the long term.
What Does Individual Therapy Treat?
- Anxiety disorders
- Depression
- Stress management
- Trauma
- Eating disorders
- Relationship issues
- Personal growth
- Anger management
How Does Individual Therapy Work?
Cognitive behavioral therapy is the most common therapeutic approach. It helps clients understand the connection between thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Clients are then taught to replace negative thoughts with healthy ones.
Other common approaches include:
- Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
- Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT)
- Interpersonal psychotherapy
What to Expect During Individual Therapy?
During this first session, the person getting therapy can also decide if they feel comfortable with the therapist. Feeling at ease with the therapist is important for a successful treatment. They should also discuss things like what kind of therapy will be used, what they want to achieve, how long each session will be, and how many sessions they might need.
Therapists often encourage the person in therapy to do most of the talking. In the beginning, it can be tough to talk about past experiences or current problems, and it might bring up strong emotions. It’s okay to feel upset, angry, or sad during therapy. Therapists are there to help build confidence and make you more comfortable as you go along.
Therapists might give “homework” to help you work on what you talked about in therapy. You can also ask questions anytime during the process. Over time, therapy can help you feel better and think more positively.
Finding the Right Counselor Specializing in Individual Therapy for Addiction
- Assess your needs
- Ask for recommendations
- Contact your insurance provider
- Search online directories
- Seek referrals from support groups
- Check credentials
- Interview potential therapists
- Consider specializations
- Ask about support services
- Trust your instincts
Finding the right therapist may take time and effort, but it’s a crucial step in your recovery journey. Don’t hesitate to seek help and support from professionals who are dedicated to helping individuals overcome addiction and achieve lasting sobriety.
Is Individual Therapy Covered by Insurance?
Many insurance plans offer coverage for mental health services, including individual therapy, as mandated by mental health parity laws. These laws require insurance plans to provide coverage for mental health and substance use disorder treatment comparable to coverage for physical health conditions.
It is important to check your insurance plan for information on co-pays and deductibles. Some insurance companies require a referral from your primary care doctor before seeing a therapist. They may also have a limit on the amount of sessions they cover.
If you have any questions about your insurance coverage, it is important to contact your insurance company.
Matthew Beck B.A, M.A, LMFT 
