Substance Abuse Treatment Professionals

Making the big step to enter rehab can be scary, in part, because you simply do not know what to expect. You know the process will help you get to the root of what has been troubling you but how will you be able to share your thoughts and feelings with strangers? Who are the people working in these facilities? What training do they have, and will they really understand what you are going through?

The truth is that when you are admitted to a  drug rehab facility, a team of dedicated professionals stands ready to help you reach your sobriety goals. This article will look at the kinds of professionals that you will encounter, and how they will contribute to your success in rehab and beyond.

Types of Addiction Specialists

The clinical and therapeutic teams you encounter in rehab will play a pivotal role in your experience and the quality of your care. That is why it is important to understand the training for the staff as well as the management of the facility to ensure that the program fits your needs.

The staffing roles in addiction treatment facilities vary widely, often requiring years of prior training and on-the-job experience in order to provide patients with effective treatment. Types of professionals encountered in rehab often include physicians, family counselors, certified recreation therapists, and other support teams.

The clinical staff works with patients to:

• Assess and document clinical histories and develop treatment plans
• Counsel patients in crisis and provide on-going therapies
• Conduct medical exams and provide medications
• Provide case management

Additional specialized staff can include:

• Psychiatrists or Psychologists
• Addiction Specialists
• Nurse Practitioners
• Physicians
• Psychiatric Nurses
• Social Workers
• Physician Assistants
• Nutritionists

In smaller facilities, these professionals may wear several hats. However, it is important to note that mental health and addiction specialists spend four to eight years receiving training at a cost of up to $100,000. Most of these roles require a minimum of a Bachelor’s Degree with an internship or field practicum of on-the-job training.

It is clear that addiction treatment facilities are staffed with some of the most highly-trained and experienced professionals in any healthcare field. To learn more about The Recovery Village Ridgefield, we invite you to meet our team or to call now to speak with one of our representatives.