Drugs / Substance Misuse

• The counsellor is experienced in a harm reduction/minimisation approach to substance misuse. Each client will have their own particular set of goals, which can be reviewed, if necessary, as work progresses.
  
  
• There is no 'magic wand.' The importance of addressing underlying issues is acknowledged. This may be painful work. By supporting clients in working through these issues, the risks of relapse can be reduced.
  
  
• A psychodynamic approach is used, guided by individual needs rather than a set programme. Unconscious patterns of thinking, feeling and behaving may be discovered that can help break the pattern of substance misuse.
  
  
• Having a confidential and safe space in which to work on personal issues is considered fundamental.
  
  
• The counselling relationship itself is seen as central to this work. A trusting working alliance can help in many ways, including reducing feelings of isolation and alienation.
  
  
  
  Useful Links for drug and alcohol services in Brighton area
  
  
  CRI and Equinox provide community based services for those with drug and alcohol problems
  
  PATCHED provides services for family and close ones of substance misusers
  
  
  For more extensive list of both local and national services, see further drug and alcohol services