How Does Faith-Based Therapy for Alcoholism Help

There are various programs available to help with therapy for alcoholism. Most rehab centers focus on the medical aspect of detoxing, being diagnosed, and the use of cognitive behavioral therapies. Choosing faith-based therapy uses a different approach to help with alcohol recovery. Not only does a faith-based alcohol recovery program use clinical treatments, but it will also include a process of recovery based on well-being through connection with their faith.

Heal me, O Lord, and I shall be healed; save me, and I shall be saved, for you are my praise. – Jeremiah 17:14, ESV

Faith-based recovery programs focus on how to progress through recovery through God’s word, prayer, and worship. Some offer Christian counseling as part of the plan. As with traditional rehab, faith-based recovery expects the participants to commit to and maintain sobriety. Faith-based recovery programs do not replace evidence-based treatment, but they do enhance the overall plan to create a Christ-centered environment for healing.

Is there a difference between abuse and dependence?

The abuse of alcohol can happen without developing a true dependence. Some individuals can go weeks or months without alcohol, yet when they do drink, they are unable to find a cut-off. Abuse can have many consequences in multiple areas of life, both health and social. Anxiety and shakiness are two of the most common symptoms of alcohol abuse.

Dependence has a different effect on a person’s life. Individuals with an alcohol dependence typically have an intense craving. This can become problematic in everyday situations. There are times when alcohol dependence can cause psychological withdrawal symptoms.

Those who are alcohol-dependent drink at inappropriate times or even become what is called a functioning alcoholic. Individuals with this level of alcohol dependence have a high tolerance to alcohol which means it takes large amounts to feel drunk.

Whether the person is struggling with abuse or dependence, faith-based therapy for alcoholism is the best place to receive the help needed to begin a recovery program that is right for them.

Where to start

Starting any recovery program begins with a solid decision to make a permanent change. This can sometimes be a hard choice. It is dependent upon the individual’s desire to change their lifestyle. Following the decision to get help an individual will go through a tough process called detoxification. This is the body’s process of cleansing itself from alcohol and other drugs. Once this process is over, the body is ready for recovery.

Therapy typically begins once the detox has ended. Various types of therapies can be used to help individuals understand the cause of the addiction. Individual counseling, group therapy, family therapy, or cognitive behavioral therapy are therapy types that will also help with understanding and coping with triggers and cravings.

Benefits of faith-based therapy for alcoholism

The benefits of faith-based recovery are based on the individual’s choice to participate. When they choose to fully engage in treatment, the benefits are immeasurable.

• Support from others who share the same faith and have been where you are is powerful.
• Finding hope in something healthier than alcohol or the world.
• The support system goes beyond the rehab.
• Finding the power of forgiveness through sobriety.
• Gaining resilience through the challenges of recovery.

Therapy for alcoholism

Therapy for alcoholism begins with a choice to get better. In choosing a treatment plan you may find that a faith-based recovery program will meet your needs. Connecting with a group of people who have the same struggle and the same faith can provide a great source of encouragement.

If you or a loved one needs faith-based therapy for alcoholism, the counselors at Thousand Oaks Christian Counseling are ready to assist you. Through the application of prayer, the Bible, and worship, recovery is available. Contact us today.