When you make the decision to seek self improvement program, you might hear that a center uses the Minnesota model of rehabilitation. This is a specialized group of services designed to treat all aspects of addiction as a disease rather than a crime. When you are considering the Minnesota model, you should know about it a few things.
The Basics of the Minnesota Model of Drug Treatment
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, the Minnesota Model is a system of drug treatment that is characterized by a thorough assessment of all of the client’s needs. Once the client is assessed, several treatment methods are put into use to match the client’s goals.
Treatment Methods Used in the Minnesota Model
Like many treatment models, the Minnesota model uses several treatment types to accomplish goals. These treatment methods are:
- Individual and group counseling types
- Cognitive behavioral therapy
- Family education
- Behavioral support
- Individualized treatment plans
This model utilizes most methods available with several types of treatment specialists including:
- Medical doctors
- Psychologists
- Psychiatrists
- Psychiatric Nurses
- Counselors
- Aids
By having both trained professional and non-profession staff, they cover all of the specialties and disciplines. Many of centers employ all of these types of staff as well as a variety of support staff.
Counseling Approach in the Minnesota Model of Drug Addiction Treatment
The counseling approach in the Minnesota model of drug addiction treatment is a bit different from many others. Counselors and doctors try to be agents of change rather than just supportive.
The desire is to motivate individuals in treatment to change on their own rather than as a result of tangible rewards or other medications such as methadone or Disulfiram. The motivation has to come from the person rather than the therapist or doctor.
It also encourages life style change rather than just stopping the drug use. The Minnesota model when practiced correctly is a holistic approach to drug addiction treatment.