In a scenario where a mother is in denial about her substance use, what should the counselor primarily do?

In cases where a person is in denial about their substance use, the primary goal for a counselor is often to create a supportive environment that facilitates awareness rather than confrontation. Referring to the individual’s support system, such as a spouse, to discuss planning an intervention allows for a collaborative approach that might effectively present the concerns about substance use when they feel safe and supported. This method helps engage the family in a structured and caring way that encourages the individual to consider their behavior without triggering defensive reactions that often accompany direct confrontations.

While engaging the spouse in planning an intervention can be an effective strategy, it's also common for counselors to utilize motivational interviewing techniques that gently encourage self-reflection and acknowledgment of the problem within the individual. This approach helps to minimize the resistance that often arises from denial, making it more likely that the individual will be open to discussing their substance use and considering changes in behavior.

Other options, while beneficial under different circumstances, may not address the denial directly. Confrontation could lead to defensiveness, education alone may not penetrate deep denial, and referring someone to rehabilitation without acknowledgment of the problem may also be premature and ineffective. The emphasis on involving the support system caters to the relational dynamics that can impact the individual's journey toward acknowledgment and recovery.