Substance abuse is more than just a physical dependence on drugs or alcohol—it’s a complex and deeply rooted issue that affects every aspect of a person’s life. For those battling addiction, the journey to recovery can feel overwhelming. That’s where therapy plays a crucial role.
At The Way Recovery Centre in Pretoria, Dr. Jolandi Meyer and the team specialize in treating substance abuse through comprehensive therapeutic methods. Let’s dive into why therapy is so essential in the process of overcoming addiction.
Why Is Therapy Important for Treating Substance Abuse?
Addiction isn’t just about the substance itself. It’s a tangled web of physical, emotional, and psychological factors. Therapy helps individuals untangle this web, one strand at a time. Without addressing the underlying causes of addiction—such as trauma, stress, or mental health issues—long-term recovery becomes incredibly difficult.
Think of addiction like a weed: cutting off the top doesn’t get rid of the root. Therapy helps pull the problem out at its core.
Physical vs. Psychological Dependence
It’s easy to assume that once someone stops using a substance, they’re “cured.” However, that’s just the beginning of the healing process. Addiction often creates both physical and psychological dependencies, and these two aspects need different approaches.
- Physical dependence: This occurs when the body gets used to the substance and craves it to function normally. While medical detox can help manage withdrawal symptoms, it doesn’t address the mental and emotional aspects of addiction.
- Psychological dependence: This is the emotional and mental attachment to the substance. It’s often tied to habits, coping mechanisms, and environmental triggers.
Therapy plays a vital role in treating the psychological side of addiction, teaching individuals healthier ways to cope, manage emotions, and respond to stress.
Different Types of Therapy in Substance Abuse Treatment
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to therapy for addiction. Everyone’s journey is unique, and so are their treatment needs. That’s why Dr. Meyer and the team at The Way Recovery Centre offer a variety of therapeutic methods to suit each individual.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
One of the most popular and effective forms of therapy for treating addiction is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. CBT helps individuals recognize and change harmful thinking patterns and behaviours associated with substance abuse.
How does CBT work?
- Identifying triggers: The therapist works with the individual to pinpoint the thoughts and situations that lead to substance use.
- Challenging negative thoughts: Once triggers are identified, the therapist helps the individual question and challenge these thoughts.
- Replacing harmful behaviors: Finally, the individual learns healthier ways to respond to triggers without resorting to drugs or alcohol.
CBT is highly effective because it empowers individuals with practical tools they can use every day. It’s not just about talking—it’s about action.
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
Another powerful therapy used in treating addiction is Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). Originally developed to treat borderline personality disorder, DBT has shown great success in helping those with substance abuse issues, particularly when addiction is accompanied by intense emotions or self-destructive behaviors.
DBT focuses on four key areas:
- Mindfulness: Teaching individuals to be present in the moment and aware of their thoughts and feelings without judgment.
- Distress tolerance: Building resilience to handle stressful situations without turning to substances.
- Emotional regulation: Learning how to manage and respond to intense emotions in a healthier way.
- Interpersonal effectiveness: Improving communication and relationship-building skills to avoid conflicts that may trigger substance use.
Group Therapy: Healing in Community
Addiction can be incredibly isolating. People struggling with substance abuse often feel like no one else understands what they’re going through. This is where group therapy can be a game changer.
Group therapy allows individuals to share their experiences with others who are on the same journey. It fosters a sense of belonging and reduces feelings of shame or isolation.
At The Way Recovery Centre, Dr. Meyer encourages group therapy as part of the treatment process. The benefits of group therapy include:
- Peer support: Knowing you’re not alone can be incredibly powerful in recovery.
- Accountability: Group members can motivate each other to stay on track with their recovery goals.
- Learning from others: Hearing others’ stories can offer new perspectives and coping strategies.
Family Therapy: Strengthening Bonds
Addiction doesn’t just affect the individual—it impacts the entire family. Family therapy plays a critical role in repairing relationships that may have been strained by substance abuse.
This type of therapy helps:
- Educate family members about addiction, so they can better understand what their loved one is going through.
- Improve communication skills within the family unit.
- Address any co-dependency or enabling behaviours that may be hindering recovery.
Dr. Meyer and her team at The Way Recovery Centre offer family therapy sessions to rebuild trust and create a strong support system, which is essential for long-term recovery.
Holistic Therapies: Addressing the Mind, Body, and Spirit
Treating addiction goes beyond traditional talk therapy. Holistic therapies that nurture the mind, body, and spirit are integrated into treatment plans.
Art and Music Therapy
Sometimes, words aren’t enough to express the deep-rooted pain that comes with addiction. That’s where art and music therapy come in. These creative therapies allow individuals to express themselves in non-verbal ways, helping to process emotions and trauma in a safe environment.
- Art therapy: Helps individuals explore their thoughts and feelings through drawing, painting, or sculpting.
- Music therapy: Uses instruments, songwriting, and listening to music to foster emotional expression and healing.
Mindfulness and Meditation
For many battling addiction, their minds are in constant overdrive. Mindfulness and meditation can help individuals slow down, focus on the present moment, and regain control over their thoughts. These practices are particularly effective in reducing stress, anxiety, and cravings.
Dr. Meyer and her team incorporate mindfulness-based techniques into their treatment plans, encouraging individuals to practice mindfulness both in and out of therapy.
The Importance of Aftercare and Ongoing Therapy
Addiction recovery doesn’t stop when someone leaves rehab. In fact, staying sober often requires ongoing therapy and support long after the initial treatment phase. At The Way Recovery Centre, aftercare is a key component of the recovery process.
Why is aftercare so important?
- Prevents relapse: Ongoing therapy helps individuals stay focused on their recovery goals and manage triggers as they arise.
- Offers support: Aftercare programs provide continued access to counsellors, support groups, and resources that reinforce sobriety.
- Encourages accountability: Regular therapy sessions help individuals stay accountable to themselves and their recovery journey.
For information on our 28-day in-patient programme with professional qualified medical detox from addiction and a platform of different approaches to addicts suffering from long-term gambling, alcohol and/or drug addiction, get in touch with Dr. Jolandi Meyer at The Way Recovery – Gambling, Drug & Alcohol Abuse Treatment Facility in Pretoria. A six-week outpatient programme with individual counselling, group therapy, and family support is also available from The Way Recovery.
The Way Recovery Halfway House in Pretoria offers a reintegration, aftercare programme to aid the addict who has finished a detox programme in adjusting to society for the recovering addict who still struggles.
Promoting Long-Term Recovery
Therapy is just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to overcoming addiction, but it’s a crucial one. Dr. Jolandi Meyer and the team At The Way Recovery Centre, offer a well-rounded approach that combines medical care, therapy, and holistic treatments to give individuals the best chance at long-term recovery.
Whether it’s through individual counselling, group therapy, or family support, they are committed to helping people reclaim their lives from addiction.
Therapy is an essential part of treating substance abuse, addressing not only the physical aspects of addiction but the mental and emotional ones as well. Through a range of therapeutic methods—like CBT, DBT, group therapy, and holistic approaches—Dr. Meyer and the team at The Way Recovery Centre guide individuals toward healing and long-term sobriety.
If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Recovery is possible, and it starts with the right support.
Common Ailments Treated by Dr. Jolandi Meyer
Dr. Jolandi Meyer’s expertise and comprehensive treatment options make her an exceptional General Practitioner for addressing all ailments. She provides personalised care, empowering patients to achieve optimal health. Her compassionate approach ensures patients receive the highest quality treatment. Her practice is located in Garsfontein, Pretoria on the same premises as The Way Recovery Centre.
With her support and guidance, patients can embark on a journey towards improved well-being and a healthier, happier life.