assessing clients with addictive disorders

Assessment of clients suffering from addiction disorders

Levy Family Case: Assessment and treatment of addiction

Introduction Addictive disorder can cause significant problems for clients. They interfere in their everyday lives, and they manifest themselves as negative behaviors and even criminal acts. These challenges can be exacerbated by co-occurring issues with mental health. This study examines a family case to find out what Mr. Levy’s and Mrs. Levy think about addiction and its impact on family life, as well as the treatment approaches that are used.

Both Mr. Levy, and his wife Mrs. Levy have different perceptions about addiction. In the first episode of Season 1, Mr. Levy views his problem as something minor that he is in control of. He thinks that his spouse exaggerates about the alcohol problem. Mrs. Levy, on the other hand, believes that her husband’s addiction is a significant problem that affects his behavior, emotions, and ability to perform his duties at work. She feels isolated, helpless, and frustrated by her husband’s behavior and lack of cooperation in seeking help for his addiction.

Implications of the Problem on the Family Mr. Levy’s addiction problem affects the family in various ways. The unpredictable nature of his behavior creates anxiety and fear in the family. He may lose his job due to his addiction, which could cause serious financial hardships for the entire family. Mrs. Levy feels unsupported and overwhelmed as she struggles to balance work and family responsibilities while dealing with her husband’s addiction. The children are also affected, as they may feel neglected, ashamed, and embarrassed by their father’s behavior.

Therapeutic Approaches In episode 2, Mr. Levy’s social worker suggests cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing to address his addiction problem. CBT helps the client identify negative thinking patterns and behavior that lead to addiction. By exploring the client’s motivations, beliefs, and values, Motivational Interviewing can help clients to overcome their resistance towards change. Mr. Levy’s social worker also suggests joining a support group to help him maintain sobriety.

In episode 3, Mr. Levy’s therapist uses mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) and deep breathing exercises to help him manage his anxiety. MBSR, a therapy that combines yoga and mindfulness to relieve stress, is a combination of meditation and body awareness. Deep breathing causes oxygen to be released into the bloodstream and activates the relaxation response. The result is a reduction in blood pressure, heart rate and muscle tension.

He also helps Mr. Levy to confront the trauma he has experienced as a result of his service in the military. In exposure therapy, clients are exposed to fearful stimuli under controlled conditions to decrease anxiety. The therapist encourages Mr. Levy’s story-telling and helps him become less fearful of his traumatic memories by desensitizing his triggers.

Response to Mr. Levy’s Difficult Story In episode 4, Mr. Levy tells a story about his platoon officer, Kurt, who sexually abused him and other soldiers during the war. As a therapist I would actively listen, empathize, and create a supportive and safe environment for Mr. Levy to tell his story. I would reassure him that he is not responsible for Kurt’s behavior and that he deserves to heal from the trauma. I’d also let him know about resources that are available, like support groups, to help him deal with his trauma.

Supervision to Mr. Levy’s Therapist in Episode 5 In episode 5, Mr. Levy’s therapist struggles with her emotions as he shares his traumatic experience. If I were to supervise her, I would advise her to get her own therapy in order to work through her emotions without getting burned out. If I were to supervise her, I would encourage her to go for therapy herself in order process emotions and avoid getting burned out.