Substance abuse is a disease that causes physical as well as psychological disorders. Alcohol and other drugs, which are usually used as sedatives or mood lifters, cause chemical dependency. Over time, the user begins to experience the adverse affects of the substance and may try to recover by themselves or through self-help groups or support from friends and family. However, due to their dependency, substance abuse counselors and therapists believe that it is important to provide a comprehensive approach to substance abuse, starting with drug detoxification and continuing through therapy, group activities, and self-help programs.

There are several Arizona Counseling and Treatment Services organizations in the state. Many of these organizations work closely with local law enforcement, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and other community and social service partners to prevent drug abuse and keep families, schools, and other communities safe. Substance abuse counselors provide education and referral to persons suffering from addiction. Substance abuse counselors help persons struggling with substance problems and develop effective coping mechanisms for battling this illness. They help the addict to realize the destructive nature of their problem and show them how to overcome it.

Inpatient substance abuse treatment is provided in a variety of programs. The detoxification process removes the patient’s physical dependency on alcohol or drugs. The outpatient substance abuse treatment centers help the person combat cravings and reduce their potential for relapsing into substance abuse again. Counselors provide the individual with an understanding of their problem and provide additional information and resources to assist them in their recovery. Substance abuse counselors can be found in hospitals, private counseling agencies, and other treatment facilities.