ASAM Level I Classes and Substance Abuse Counseling

ASAM Level I Classes and Substance Abuse Counseling

ASAM Level I classes are designed according to the ASAM (American Society of Addiction Medicine) criteria for addiction Counseling. Specifically, ASAM Level I classes and Substance Abuse Counseling provide individuals with a supportive and instructive environment where they are encouraged to develop deeper insights into the causes and conditions, as well as the effects, of their addictive and abusive behaviors.

ASAM Group Location and Hours

ASAM Level I Classes

 

It is well understood in the medical and scientific communities that substance abuse is associated with more fundamental or rudimentary cognitive deficits. Some of these deeper issues may be deficits in emotional regulation, diagnosable affective disorders, or a consequence of a myriad of other sociocultural, environmental and/or genetic factors. Regardless of their specificity, instructors of the ASAM Level classes and substance abuse Counseling are trained to assist clients in beginning to illuminate these underlying psychological issues in order to alleviate the drive to pursue addictive avenues to cope with life stressors. Often, additional resources such as one-on-one counseling or pharmacological therapy from licensed and certified clinicians may be necessary to support the Counseling process.

Substance Abuse Treatment

Clients are highly recommended to fully participate in this collaborative recovery process in order to gain the greatest benefits. The multi-dimensional approach advocated by the ASAM has led to the development of Counseling resources intended to meet clients at different levels of self-awareness and overall readiness. Regardless of the individual’s level of self-understanding, open-mindedness and willingness to fully engage are critical for long-term abstinence and inner contentment. Our instructors of the ASAM Level I classes and substance abuse Counseling are equipped to facilitate a supportive dialogue and provide the necessary resources to evoke sustainable transformation, which has been shown to reduce recidivism and lead to overall well-being. To register for an ASAM Level I Substance Abuse Counseling class, call 800-683-7745.

 

Behavior Modification for Recovery

The importance of change and what it takes to modify our behavior.

Behavior Modification for Recovery

Behavior Modification for Recovery from Alcoholism and drug addiction are primarily brain- and behavior-based psychological disorders that have foundations in neural and biological substrates along with persistent conditioning brought about by repeated behavioral patterns. There exists a strong reciprocal relationship between the mind and body of the addict and alcoholic. Science has revealed a variety of genetic and environmental factors that contribute to our current understanding of addiction and subsequent prevention and Counseling  approaches. Furthermore, these developments have helped to shape the current societal views of addiction from a moral failing to a health problem. This shift has consequently altered our focus on solutions from punitive measures to therapeutic Counseling and preventative education.

Although medications can alleviate many of the unpleasant withdrawal symptoms and side effects associated with substance abuse (along with assisting with some of the deeper, often undiagnosed, psychological phenomena that were being ineffectively self-medicated with the substance of abuse, such as depression, bipolar, and anxiety-related disorders), the need for behavioral modification and self-regulation is essential to long-term recovery and overall well-being.

There are numerous theoretical models which thoroughly outline the development and progression of addiction—virtually all of which posit the necessity for cognitive and behavioral modification. Essentially, it is well-understood, from a variety of perspectives and disciplines which deal with addiction in some capacity, that removing the substance of abuse alone is not effective in ensuring long-term sobriety, in that the underlying causes and conditions that led to the abuse (even in the wake of devastating consequences) must also be addressed and corrected.

 

Behavior Modification for Recovery

The second element necessary of behavior modification for recovery is one of unwavering persistence and dedication to the task. Because the modification of thought and behavioral patterns that have invariably developed over an entire lifetime can take a considerable amount time and energy, a certain level of tenacity and inner determinism to persevere is often required. Along with such a drive comes the need for an attitude of compassion and patience with oneself. Deep and enduring change is neither easy nor quick, and the probability of the recurrence of old behaviors and thoughts in certain familiar contexts is highly likely, if not inevitable. For example, no matter how much one commits to avoiding anger and frustration, given the appropriate circumstances (e.g. traffic, arguing with a loved one, etc.), the feelings are bound to be elicited because of their conditioned nature. The key is to constantly remind oneself of the desire to change the ruminative thinking and habitual responses which have always accompanied such emotional reactions. Compassion is necessary when undergoing this painstaking task. Cultivating this kind and loving relationship with oneself is what is often meant by “parenting oneself,”  or behavior modification for recovery, which is what the process of recovery demands. Moreover, it is important to avoid labels such as “success” and “failure,” and instead respect the evolution of change as you embark upon it. The specific practices and resources one incorporates to assist in this process depend on the nature of Counseling and therapeutic services provided. Regardless of the specificities, in light of the difficulty, this inner transformation presents to the addict or alcoholic, some form of Counseling and support is highly recommended.

For help with Counseling classes

For help with DUI arrest and classes

Marijuana can’t help PTSD and anxiety

Marijuana can’t help PTSD and anxiety

Marijuana can’t help PTSD and anxiety

At AACS Atlanta, we deal with many veterans who have been using marijuana to deal with their PTSD and anxiety issues.  The article below discusses that marijuana can’t help PTSD and anxiety.  For a long time, people have used marijuana as an alternative temporary and a quick fix to get relief from PTSD and anxiety. Although we don’t advocate for medication dependence to deal with PTSD, we encourage our clients to seek help from mental health professionals to begin working on cognitive restructuring immediately.

New Counseling modalities and best practices have shown learning how to cope with stress, traumatic experiences and PTSD are the healthiest methods to gain a life long skill to deal with these uncomfortable thoughts and feelings.

There are several studies that indicate marijuana can’t help PTSD or anxiety.  Most people experience a brief period of relief only to return to a higher state of anxiety. PTSD can be addressed in several therapeutic models. The editorial published on July 10, 2015, by The Gazette identifies the adverse effects of THC dependence on PTSD.

Marijuana can’t help PTSD and anxiety

If you or a loved one is depending on marijuana to deal with PTSD or anxiety, please visit our site for immediate help or to schedule a free consultation. 

Please click on the link below for the full editorial.Save

Shoplifting and Theft Prevention classes

Get off probation-Complete your SHOPLIFTING and THEFT Prevention Classes. 

Shoplifting and theft prevention classes are designed to address several issues. Courts require habitual offenders to complete a 3 or 8-hour shoplifting and theft prevention class.  The individual’s mental health and behavior are addressed to get to the root issue for the repeated offense.  Kleptomania is not the only disorder associated with chronic shoplifting. Depression, organized crime and socio-economic circumstances are contributing factors for shoplifting.

Shoplifting and Theft Prevention classes are designed to meet the needs of those who have been accused of shoplifting, theft by receiving, forgery, passing a bad check, and all theft-related charges. Participants are supportively led to identify and understand the issues (e.g., thoughts, beliefs, and attitudes) that caused them to shoplift. Shoplifting and Theft Prevention classes follow a curriculum that assists the clients in developing a better understanding of the social, financial, and personal ramifications of their behavior

To register for a Shoplifting and Theft Prevention class, call 800-683-7745.

Shoplifting and Theft Prevention classes

Among the topics explored in this class include impulse control, enhanced decision making, cognitive restructuring, personal development, behavior modification, and a serious assessment of lifestyle. Participants in the Shoplifting and Theft Prevention class will work collaboratively to develop an action plan to ensure the prevention of any future impulse to shoplift. Instructors foster an atmosphere of change in group discussions by instilling a sense of personal responsibility.

Shoplifting and Theft Prevention classes
Shoplifting and Theft Prevention Class

We assist clients to develop insight into their reasoning abilities by reinforcing better decision making and illuminating the consequences of illegal behavior.

To register for a Shoplifting and Theft Prevention class, call 800-683-7745.

Anger Management Classes

Anger Management Classes are the newest trend in the US and around the world.

Couples, family members,  and even victims play an equal part in unhealthy relationships.  Untreated anger may lead to self-destructive behavior, loss of trust, respect, and even uncontrollable rage, which can result in violence.

Juvenile judicial officers, behaviorists, schools, and families enroll their loved ones in anger management classes to improve their quality of life and establish healthy relationships.

History of Anger Management

Participating in anger management classes is an excellent way to treat individuals who suffer from these symptoms.

Anger Management ClassesMindfulness, relaxation, and breathing techniques are some of the most simple ways to avoid anger.

Welcome to AACS Atlanta

American Alternative Court Services (AACS Atlanta) is a certified and licensed agency that provides comprehensive services to individuals involved in the criminal justice system.

Professional Counselors provide the client with intensive supervision, Substance Abuse Groups, Anger Management Groups, Shoplifting Groups, and a supportive network, which enables the client to meet the expectations of the court and decrease the likelihood of re-offending.
We provide affordable and reasonable alcohol and drug assessments for all violations.

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