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Substance Abuse Specialism

I have completed the RCGP National Drug Misuse Training Programme and gained Certification in the Management of Drug Misuse Parts One and Two. Through both my formal training and extensive professional experience, I have developed substantial knowledge and practical expertise in the management of Drug and Alcohol Treatment Services.

 

I have worked across a variety of professional settings, including Specialist Community Drug and Alcohol Services, where I was involved in the management and monitoring of alternative substitute prescribing programmes. This included working with medications such as Methadone, Subutex/Buprenorphine, and Naltrexone as part of structured treatment and recovery plans.
 

Furthermore, I have worked alongside Local GPs with Specialist Interests in substance misuse, supporting the assessment, treatment, and ongoing management of patients experiencing difficulties with illicit Class A and Class B drug use. My experience has enabled me to develop a strong understanding of harm reduction approaches, recovery-focused interventions, multidisciplinary working, safeguarding responsibilities, and the complex needs associated with Substance Misuse and Dependency Management.

Additionally, I have worked in partnership with a range of Local Authorities, supporting the management of Specialist Drug Services within Health And Social Care sector, facilitating placements for individuals experiencing substance misuse problems into Residential Rehabilitation Treatment Programmes. This role included coordinating referrals, supporting care planning, liaising with multidisciplinary professionals, and overseeing the placement process through to completion.

What Is Residential Treatment
 

 Residential Treatment for drug dependency provides structured, therapeutic support for individuals struggling with addiction and the underlying emotional, psychological, social, and physical challenges connected to substance use. The process is designed to help clients achieve stability, develop healthier coping strategies, build resilience, and prepare for long-term recovery through a combination of assessment, detox support, therapy, and ongoing aftercare planning.
 

MLC-Will Support Clients Through The Residential Treatment Process:
 

  • Initial Assessment
    A full assessment is completed to explore substance use history, mental and physical health, risks, personal circumstances, and treatment needs.

  • Referral & Care Planning
    Clients seen in private practice can be supported to access residential treatment either through self-funding or by being encouraged to approach specialist community drug and alcohol services for referral and care planning. Professionals may coordinate funding applications, referrals, and care plans with healthcare providers and support agencies where appropriate.

  • Preparation for Treatment
    Clients are supported to understand the rehabilitation process, set goals, and prepare emotionally and practically for admission.

  • Detox & Stabilisation
    Where needed, medically supervised detoxification helps clients withdraw safely from substances and begin stabilisation.

  • Residential Rehabilitation
    Clients engage in structured support including counselling, group therapy, relapse prevention, life skills, and emotional wellbeing work.

  • Ongoing Support & Monitoring
    Staff provide therapeutic support, risk management, mental health monitoring, and motivation throughout treatment.

  • Discharge & Aftercare Planning
    Recovery plans are developed to support reintegration into daily life, including housing, employment, ongoing therapy, and relapse prevention support.

  • Continued Recovery Support
    Aftercare and community support help clients maintain progress, strengthen coping skills, and sustain long-term recovery.

BACP Logo - Registered Member number 386872

MBACP Register  386872

Member No.  00919208

Located in Essex, Available worldwide

© ML Counselling Est  2000

Website designed and created  by Johnella Francis

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