What to expect from substance use counselling: 4 truths you should know

What is counselling?

Counselling is a collaborative process that supports people as they navigate issues like substance use, trauma, and relationship troubles. 

During talk therapy sessions, a qualified counsellor and client explore feelings and work together to identify and change unhelpful behaviours. The process helps improve self-awareness, encourages personal growth, and shapes healthy, effective coping habits. 

Common myths

There are many misconceptions about counselling, and believing them may prevent people from seeking support when they need it. 

The top myths about substance use counselling include:

• Counsellors tell clients to stop using substances
• You must be in crisis to attend counselling
• Relapse means failure
• Counsellors have all the answers

4 truths about substance use counselling

One-on-one talk therapy sessions can benefit anyone wanting to overcome challenges and improve their lives. If you’re considering support for substance use, but aren’t sure what to expect, here are the key things you should know.

Truth 1: You are the expert of your life

Nobody knows you better than you. Realizing this, a counsellor with a client-centred approach lets you direct the conversation and make your own goals; they show up for you without judgment, with guidance, and as a source of complete acceptance and support, according to the Canadian Mental Health Association, Simcoe County.

Truth 2: Counselling is confidential (with a few exceptions)

Before or during your first session, a counsellor must explain how confidentiality works. For the most part, what you say in session stays in session — counsellors are legally required to keep your information and what you share confidential. 

There are, however, a few exceptions. For example, a counsellor must report to the appropriate authority if they suspect a client will seriously hurt themselves or somebody else, according to the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH).

Truth 3: Building trust takes time

Talk therapy will be most successful when you and your counsellor have a trusting relationship. At first, you may not feel comfortable opening up to a stranger — trust isn’t automatic or instant. But it will grow when your counsellor provides consistent empathy, active listening, non-judgment, understanding, and unconditional acceptance.  

Truth 4: It’s OK to change counsellors

Sometimes, clients’ and counsellors’ personalities don’t mesh. If that happens, it’s fine to move on to a new counsellor who’s a better fit. Remember, it’s important to connect well and have a trusting relationship for the therapeutic process to be most effective.

Free substance use counselling in the GTA

Talk therapy can be expensive and out of reach for many people. But at the YMCA Youth Substance Awareness Program (YSAP), we offer free one-on-one counselling for youth in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) wanting support for drug use.  

YSAP services include:

• No waiting list and easy referral process 
• Individual counselling for 14- to 24-year-olds
• In-person, telephone, and virtual counselling sessions 
• A person-centred, strength-based, and harm reduction 

If you or someone you know needs support with substance use, reach out to YSAP counsellors via our website or call 416-473-7407.