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What Is the Most Effective Treatment Options for Cocaine Abusers?

Cocaine abuse is a complicated physical, mental and emotional problem, according to researchers Drew W. Edwards and Mark S. Gold. Effective treatment options for cocaine abusers need to take into account the multifaceted nature of cocaine addiction. There are a number of widely used approaches to dealing with and treating cocaine abuse and addiction.

  1. Behavioral

    • Modification of behaviors is a commonly used course of treatment for cocaine abusers and addicts. One of the most effective treatment options for cocaine abusers involves what are known as behavioral interventions. The behavioral treatment and recovery process involves group therapy and one-on-one counseling. Behavioral treatment occurs in both inpatient and outpatient settings.

      At the heart of the behavioral treatment and recovery process is teaching the abuser or addict new behaviors, replacement conduct for addictive activities.

    Counseling

    • Counseling is also an effective treatment course for a person battling an addiction to cocaine. The ultimate goal of counseling as a treatment for cocaine abuse is identifying and then addressing the underlying problem or issue that gave rise to the addictive behavior.

      Counseling is undertaken in both inpatient and outpatient settings. There are both counselors and therapists who specialize in treating patients struggling with drug abuse and addiction issues.

    Self-Help

    • Undertaking a course of self-help is also helpful for many people dealing with cocaine abuse or addiction. Although self-help is not appropriate for all cocaine abusers, it does provide at least a starting point on the road to recovery in many cases.

      There are a number of different self-help programs available to cocaine abusers and addicts, most based upon the same 12-step principles developed through Alcoholics Anonymous. The three most frequently utilized self-help programs accessed by cocaine abusers are Cocaine Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous and Alcoholics Anonymous.

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