Assignment 2 – Counselor Interview Paper: Each student will be required to interview one (1) professional counselor (LPC, LCDC, LMFT, LCSW) who works in a substance abuse treatment setting and submit a one/two-page, type-written response. (APA format)
Assignment 2 – Counselor Interview Paper: Each student will be required to interview one (1) professional counselor (LPC, LCDC, LMFT, LCSW) who works in a substance abuse treatment setting and submit a one/two-page, type-written response. (APA format) (20 pts total)
The following questions should be asked:
- How do you define substance-related problems?
Everyone has problems, and everyone learns how to cope with them in different ways including with substance. So, substance related problems occur by those who’s only coping skills is using a substance that changes the way they feel.
- Who provides services to the clients?
Of course the main reason of services is provided by her personal counselor, however, the person who cares for the client is anyone who comes in contact with her starting with the receptionist. The client will be greeted by the admissions staff where she will be informed of the admission process. Once she is admitted into the program the client will be cared for counselors, technicians, kitchen staff, recovery support, med room staff, management, and even the maintenance staff. - What treatment modalities are used?
Cognitive Behavior therapy, motivation interviewing. I personally use a lot of reality therapy and solution focused brief therapy. The reason I chose these is because I believe strongly that recovery is about changing our thought process and belief system. Not to mention they must be able to recognize and cope with reality. Other counselors are great at offering mindfulness. I guess I do the same when I do Yoga weekly with my clients.d. What are the goals of treatment?
The goals of treatment are to individualize based on each client’s needs. Of course, our first defense is achieving sobriety. The treatment plays a part of maintain sobriety and changing their lifestyle, so it is different for each person. We address issues of family, social, employment, school, legal, medical, and mental health issues. A significant number of clients suffer from PTSD which require additional counselor and or referrals.
e. What does the discharge process entail?
Discharge Procedure: Creating a healthy discharge plan with the client that would support her recovery efforts. This plan will include a continuum of care such as outpatient services, support meetings, sponsorship. We will provide referrals for medical, mental health care, and any referrals needed that would support and promote her recovery.f. What are the credentials of the staff?
At this facility, we have on staff LCDC’s LPC’s, one psychologist, LMFT’s, Case Managers, Recovery Couches, psychiatrist, and LVN’s. These are the ones I know of pretty sure there is more. We do a have a child therapy counselor as well.
g. What ethical issue has been a challenge for you?
I think if I were to name something it would have to be my opinion of how vital it is to have a relationship with God to stay sober. Meaning, I would like to have the freedom to speak openly about the love of God. Because spirituality is important, I do support women in their beliefs that is working for them.
h. What is your greatest challenge when working with substance abuse clients?
My Greatest challenge is not taking home the traumatic stories I hear daily. It is sometimes difficult to believe in society and the family Unit. These women have the same story and the pattern is, to me, the break-down of the family unit.
I also like to add some info about yourself so here are a few more questions I thought I would like to add to the paper.
What is your Degree?
Associates of applied sciences- Substance Abuse Program
What school did you attend?
Eastfield College
Where did you do your practicum?
Homeward Bound & Nexus
What was the most beneficial thing you learned in School and while doing your practicum?
Honestly, I remember very little from college, but I learned most from my practicum on how to treat clients
Why did you choose this career path?
Grace by God led me
What are your plans for the future?
To own and operate multiple sober living homes
What do you do for self-care?
Ride motorcycles, yoga, beach vacation
How long have you been an LCDC?
since 2015
How long did it take you to get from LCDC-I to full LCDC?
4 years to get fully licensed
Where do you work?
Nexus Recovery Center Dallas Texas
What do you like best about the place you work?
It’s a family atmosphere, everyone is great loving and helpful not to mention fun
What do you like least?
Being so busy
If you could change one thing about this field what would it be?
Number of days funded by the state and private insurance.
Counselor Name Terri Banner
Nexus Recovery Center 8733 La Prada Drive Dallas Texas 75228
Website so you can look up info on facility