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Instead of focusing on your weaknesses, strengths-based therapy emphasizes developing your strengths and resilience.Relationship problems, substance use disorders, and mental health issues can all benefit from this kind of therapy.
Positive psychology is the practice of strengths-based therapy.Rather than focusing on your weaknesses, this therapeutic approach emphasizes your strengths and is frequently used in conjunction with other addiction therapies.
Mental health conditions like depression and schizophrenia, as well as issues with relationships and self-esteem, are the most frequently treated populations for this kind of addiction therapy.
Strengths-based therapy may be offered alongside other treatments in an addiction treatment program to aid in the recovery process by encouraging resiliency and self-assurance.
Although the terms “addiction” and “physical dependence” are sometimes used interchangeably, they have distinct meanings.The term “addiction” refers to a substance use disorder, whereas “dependence” can simply be the result of long-term use of a substance, including taking a medication that has been prescribed by a medical professional.
How does an addiction treatment program based on strengths work?
A type of talk therapy is strengths-based therapy.By honing your skills and identifying yourself as a survivor, the objective is to process your history, such as past trauma and challenges.
You will work on confronting the challenges you have faced in a way that can build resilience, self-confidence, and foster internal growth with a qualified counselor or psychologist.
However, there is not a “problem focus” in this therapy.Additionally, you will work on determining your previous accomplishments.
What, for instance, worked? What went wrong? You and your treatment supplier will zero in on distinguishing and leveling up those abilities you have that made past sure accomplishments conceivable.
What are the fundamentals of strengths-based addiction treatment?
A person-centered therapy approach is strengths-based therapy.
Experts who were well-known for their work in the development of other therapeutic modalities, such as solution-focused therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), gave rise to it.
The following are fundamental principles of a strengths perspective:
- a firm belief that every person has potential;
- that a client’s “evolving story” and identity are defined by their own strengths, not their limitations
- that the language they use creates their reality
- that it is important to focus on challenges as opportunities to build capacity and resilience
- that positive change occurs within the context of authentic relationships
- that a person has more confidence to travel into the future when they begin by identifying the personal strengths they already possess to enact positive change; that the process of change needs to be guided by
- capacity-building is a journey that lasts a lifetime.
- Effective change is a process that is inclusive and collaborative.
What Are The Techniques Of Strengths-Based Therapy For Addiction?
A strengths-based addiction treatment plan might use a variety of methods that are tailored to each client’s individual and treatment needs.
The client is treated as the storyteller in this modality, their lived experience is valued, and they are encouraged to actively participate in their own healing journey.
In strengths-based therapy, a counsellor or social worker might employ the following methods:
- beginning with a strengths-based assessment that identifies the client’s strengths
- reframes their weaknesses
- draws attention to past accomplishments
- Strengths journaling
- identifies social support sources (friends, family, etc.).
Benefits of Strengths-Based Therapy for the Treatment of Substance
Use Disorder Personal empowerment and the development of confidence in one’s own potential are the primary goals of strength-based therapy.
Although it is typically used to treat mental illness or relationship issues, this therapy can also be beneficial for substance abuse.
One study found that adolescents with substance use disorders who received this treatment reduced their drug use more and had fewer or fewer depression symptoms.
Additionally, strengths-based therapy can help:
- promote the use of supportive coping skills reframe vulnerabilities rather than ignoring them
- boost interpersonal skills improve personal well-beingquality of life foster
- identity development in adolescents and young adults
- strengthen communication skills improve mindfulness
- address low self-esteem
A healthcare provider can provide strengths-based therapy on their own or as part of an inpatient drug rehab program.
Case management, family therapy, group therapy, and other treatment options like cognitive behavioral therapy are frequently offered alongside this therapy.
Find Strengths-Based Treatment for Addiction and Substance Abuse
If you or a loved one is looking for treatment for substance abuse, one of our specialists can help you find a provider who offers this kind of treatment for substance abuse.
