Individual Therapy | Benefits and How it is Implemented

Individual therapy is a crucial element of rehab treatment which provides people with the opportunity to work through underlying issues, develop coping strategies and gain insight into their addiction.

By discussing feelings, emotions and life events with an expert therapist, you can begin to untangle the complexities of addiction and learn how to better manage them. At Primrose Lodge, individual therapy is a major part of our addiction treatment programmes where you will work with an experienced counsellor who has been through recovery themselves and knows first-hand the challenges of addiction.

What is individual therapy for addiction?

Individual therapy is a collaborative process between you and your individual counsellor who will use a number of effective and proven treatment modalities in order to facilitate positive change and improve the individual’s quality of life. Common forms of therapy delivered during the session include cognitive behavioural therapy, dialectical behavioural therapy, trauma therapy and psychotherapy. Many people find these sessions extremely beneficial and healing, as they are able to resolve past issues and increase their own self-awareness of the causes and consequences of their addiction with the assistance of their therapist.

What happens during an individual therapy addiction session?

We understand that some people may have suffered traumas or experiences that they find too difficult to speak about in a group therapy environment so upon admission to Primrose Lodge, you will be assigned a focal counsellor who is responsible for overseeing your treatment plan during your stay.

During your sessions, you will work with your counsellor to explore the challenges of living with an addiction and identify potential triggers for relapse. Your counsellor will utilise various therapeutic models to ensure the session is productive and healing. Individual therapy addiction treatment also provides the counsellor with the opportunity to review your treatment plan and make any necessary adjustments.

Individual therapy for addiction at Primrose Lodge

Individual therapy sessions at Primrose Lodge last for approximately 50 minutes and are held in small, comfortable, soundproof rooms, specifically prepared for the purpose. All of our Counsellors are BACP registered and qualified and have successfully overcome addiction themselves putting them in a unique position to earn the trust and respect of their clients. Combining their personal experience and understanding of addiction with their professional skills and knowledge, they utilise individual therapy sessions to reach you on a deeper level.

As our former client Carl explains:

“Individual therapy was mind-blowing. To be able to speak about my whole life and have someone to listen to me was very different.”

What issues are addressed during individual therapy for addiction?

Using a person-centred approach to treatment, your counsellor will address issues that you may not be comfortable discussing in front of your peers. By exploring and resolving these deeper issues, you have a far greater chance of successfully staying sober after you leave rehab.

Common issues and problems that are treated during these sessions include:

Issues of a sexual nature
Behaviours that cause feelings of shame and guilt
Past traumatic experiences
Thoughts, feelings and experiences that you feel too embarrassed or self-conscious about to disclose in a group setting

How does individual therapy help addiction recovery?

Individual therapy is a concentrated dose of talking therapy. The counsellor is able to cover a lot of ground as they are able to dedicate the session entirely to you. Many people suffering from addiction find dealing with their emotions difficult but expressing and experiencing emotions is necessary for the healing process. Individual therapy provides a safe and confidential space in which you can do just that with your counsellor ensuring your emotional safety at all times.

What are the benefits of individual therapy for addiction?

Individual therapy is a highly effective form of treatment for addiction and also co-occurring illnesses such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder. Some of the benefits include:

A safe and confidential space to discuss issues of a more sensitive nature
Assistance in processing difficult emotions
Assistance in raising self-awareness and increasing self-compassion, self-esteem and self-worth.
The removal of barriers that could otherwise hinder the recovery process
The opportunity for intensive therapy to be delivered without interruption or distraction
The chance for you to express your true emotions unreservedly, without the fear of being judged by others
The ability for you and your counsellor to cover more ground relating to your individual issues

How does individual therapy complement other addiction therapies?

At Primrose Lodge, our rehab programmes comprise a range of different therapies and treatments which provide a holistic approach to recovery. Individual therapy works in tandem with all of these treatments to ensure that every aspect of your addiction is thoroughly explored, understood and addressed.

For example, family therapy sessions provide a space in which family members can come together to discuss and resolve any issues. By telling your counsellor about the damage your addiction has caused to your relationship, they will then know which topics to focus on during family therapy.

Likewise, individual therapy can help to identify any triggers which may have led to your relapse. This can be invaluable knowledge during relapse prevention sessions when you will work with your therapists to create a plan for when you leave rehab. These triggers may include certain people, places or situations that could be difficult to handle. By discussing these with your counsellor, you will be far better prepared for the challenges that may lie ahead.

How can I start individual therapy for addiction?

At Primrose Lodge, we believe wholeheartedly in the importance of individual therapy for addiction. By providing a safe space where you can express and work through any issues, our team can help to ensure the best possible chance of successful recovery.

If you’re considering individual therapy for addiction, the first step is to get in touch with us and find out more about our treatment programmes. Whether you need help with your own addiction or wish to support a loved one who is struggling, we can provide comprehensive care and support that can make a huge difference.

Frequently asked questions

Is individual therapy for addiction confidential?

Yes. When it comes to your individual sessions, all information will be kept confidential unless otherwise agreed or if there is a risk of serious harm to yourself or other people. This confidentiality is crucial for building the trust and confidence needed to encourage people to open up.

Can I just do individual therapy or do I have to do group therapy too?

At Primrose Lodge, everyone participates in a mixture of both individual and group therapy sessions as part of our comprehensive rehab programme. We believe that both are necessary for a full recovery, and the combination of the two will help to ensure you have all the knowledge and skills needed to lead a healthy, sober life.

Disclaimer:

The availability of therapies may vary across UKAT centres. The specific therapies provided will be determined based on your treatment plan and the programme offered at your chosen facility. All treatments are subject to clinical assessment and programme availability at the time of admission. For further details on the therapies included in your treatment plan, please contact our admissions team.