{"id":111638,"date":"2020-11-03T09:44:23","date_gmt":"2020-11-03T15:44:23","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.thechicagoschool.edu\/insight\/?p=111638"},"modified":"2021-04-01T12:53:59","modified_gmt":"2021-04-01T17:53:59","slug":"what-is-substance-abuse-psychology","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.thechicagoschool.edu\/insight\/psychology\/what-is-substance-abuse-psychology\/","title":{"rendered":"What is substance abuse psychology?"},"content":{"rendered":"

A large number of people today suffer from addictions of various kinds. Understanding the cause of these addictions\u2014social, physical, or environmental\u2014places the psychologist or counselor in a better position to offer clients the support and treatment they need.<\/p>\n

With the widespread use of alcohol, drugs, and psychedelics, clinicians must research the addictions related to these substances and develop models for diagnosis and treatment.<\/p>\n

What do substance abuse psychologists do?<\/h3>\n

Substance abuse psychology and, by extension, addictions psychology are disciplines that encompass both abnormal and clinical psychology. Substance abuse psychologists use information gathered through research to identify, treat, and support those suffering from addiction and substance abuse issues.<\/p>\n

The substance abuse psychologist must implement effective treatment programs to help clients rebuild and rejoin all spheres of their life, including family, work, and community.<\/p>\n

Substance abuse counseling<\/h3>\n

A substance abuse counselor works directly with people suffering from addictions and their families. This is to provide the necessary support and create an atmosphere of care that supports the patient\u2019s mental and emotional well-being.<\/p>\n

Substance abuse counselors are apt at various treatment techniques and conflict management strategies. They must also communicate effectively with the patient and their family and friends\u2014providing information on ongoing support tactics and factors that could cause a relapse.<\/p>\n

Programs in substance abuse psychology<\/h3>\n

To work as a licensed professional in the field, you must earn an accredited degree in substance abuse psychology, substance abuse counseling, or another related field. Additionally, candidates must gain work experience, get a background check, and pass a state certification exam.<\/p>\n

Below are potential substance abuse counselor degrees you could pursue as an aspiring professional in the field:<\/p>\n

1. Associate degree<\/strong><\/p>\n

Studying to get an associate degree, you\u2019ll learn the basics of working with clients and their families. Some states only require an associate degree to practice substance abuse psychology. The duration to acquire this degree is two years. Before enrolling for this degree, however, it is crucial to consider the regulations in the state in which you wish to practice.<\/p>\n

2. Bachelor\u2019s degree<\/strong><\/p>\n

This program reviews the history of substance abuse psychology and provides context on overarching trends in human behavior. You\u2019ll explore topics such as neuropsychology, chemical dependence, crisis intervention, and how to spot symptoms of substance abuse.<\/p>\n

At The Chicago School<\/a>, we offer we offer two programs that equip students with all the knowledge and hands-on insights needed to excel as a substance abuse psychologist or counselor:<\/p>\n