One of the most important aspects of alcohol recovery is individualized therapy offered by inpatient alcohol counseling programs. In therapy, you can gain perspective to promote healthy self views, find the courage to heal, and address any buried emotional trauma that may fuel your alcohol addiction. However, those of us who have never seen a therapist—or who have had negative therapy experiences—might find ourselves afraid of inpatient alcohol counseling programs. By addressing common fears about inpatient alcohol counseling programs, you can find the comfort and confidence you need to heal any psychological or emotional root causes of alcohol addiction.
Five Common Fears About Inpatient Alcohol Counseling Programs
If you find yourself feeling fear over counseling sessions in inpatient alcohol rehab programs, you’re not alone. Here are five of the most common fears many people have about therapy, and the truths behind the myths.
- “What if I find out I’m crazy?”
One of the most common fears about inpatient alcohol counseling programs is that patients will find out they are mentally ill. Remember, alcoholism is not a mental illness—but rather a symptom of negative self beliefs or emotional pain that has not yet been dealt with. Remember that inpatient alcohol counseling programs should be conducted in a nonjudgmental, trusting atmosphere that nurtures your sense of self confidence. Reputable talk therapists will help heal your self view, and empower you to resolve problems and achieve your utmost potential in life. - “What if I don’t want to open up?”
In inpatient alcohol counseling programs, therapists should never push you, berate you, or force you to disclose anything you do not want to. Therapeutic relationships are built on a foundation of trust, allowing you to open up your history and your feelings on your own timetable. - “What if I feel worse?”
Dealing with trauma and low self esteem can be an intimidating—and sometimes draining experience. However, a professional therapist will gauge your inpatient alcohol counseling to ensure that you do not feel overwhelmed or depressed as a result of session work. Your therapist should also give you positive coping mechanisms that will help you deal with any trauma that comes up during counseling sessions. - “What if I’m in therapy for the rest of my life?”
One common fear about beginning therapy is the belief that the process will never end. In inpatient alcohol counseling programs, however, you and your therapist are partnering for a specific goal—to heal negative self beliefs or lingering trauma that may contribute to your addiction. Once you have found freedom from alcoholism, your therapy is considered successful and completed. - “Will a therapist be able to know what I’m thinking?”
Some people become afraid that therapists will be able to “see right through them,” eliminating their ability to keep their innermost thoughts private. In actuality, therapists can’t read your mind and need your cooperation in order to create a positive and productive therapy experience.
