Monday, October 15, 2012

Avoid Simple Mistakes when Selcting Relapse Prevention Program

Avoiding Simple Mistakes when Selecting an Online Alcohol/Drug Relapse Prevention Class © 2012

Thomas Wilson

Internationally Board Certified Substance Abuse Prevention Specialist
Many persons who experience legal problems as a result of alcohol or drug abuse make the decision to quit using drugs or alcohol. Although self help groups can be part of the recovery process, courts frequently require them to complete a relapse prevention class.  Relapse Prevention is a process of maintaining sobriety or abstinence from alcohol or drugs through a variety of techniques. The courts require you to complete these classes before releasing you from supervision.
However, a simple mistake such as choosing the wrong class or choosing the wrong online program provider could get you into even more trouble with the court.  If you want to resolve your case quickly, avoid these common mistakes.
Mistake # 1: Enrolling in a class from a provider that does not have the proper credentials or is not accredited or approved to provide substance abuse education. 
Drug education or substance abuse prevention classes are taught by professionals who are certified or licensed in alcohol or drug education or counseling.  If you are unsure, ask for a copy of their license or credentials to provide to the court.   
Mistake #2: Enrolling in the wrong class.  Be sure to enroll in the right class that is required by the court. 
A relapse prevention class is is different than a DUI class, drug awareness class or minor in possession classes.   If you are unsure or don’t know the exact name of the class, you should call the office of the program provider and ask for assistance. Licensed and credentialed course providers are happy to help you find the right class. 
Mistake #3: Enrolling in an online class without getting approval from your court or agency. 
A credentialed course provider will not encourage you to sign up unless you have gotten permission from the court or agency that requires the class.  Be sure you have permission from the court, agency or your attorney take the online class.  It’s always a good idea to call and get an OK. 
Mistake #4: Enrolling in the cheapest class. 
Just because the class is the cheapest, does not necessarily mean it will meet court requirements, or provide technical support. Some providers charge extra for certificates or other paper work required by the court. Inquire about all the cost involved in getting proof of enrollment, completion of certificates and mailing costs. Some providers make their money by charging inflated fees for services that are normally included at no cost by licensed or credentialed programs.  

Tom Wilson Counseling Center Relapse Prevention Classes

ALL classes developed and monitored by Tom Wilson, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who is also a Certified Alcohol and Substance Prevention Specialist. Tom is the author of "Taming Anger and Aggression", an anger management program which has been taught to hundreds of people at the counseling center over the last twelve years. He specializes in adapting evidence-based substance abuse prevention programs for delivery through the web and other electronic media.