Specializing in Addiction Psychology

What is the difference between a psychologist and a psychiatrist? The psychiatrist has been through more rigorous schooling and is a licensed medical physician capable of prescribing medications for patients.

They are also required to learn about the various types of drugs and keep abreast of new drugs that enter the market. Today drugs can be prescribed by general practitioners as well. Of course drugs alone are not enough. The individaul who is addicted needs counseling.

Why Addiction Psychology?

With the epidemic of addictions of all sorts today, addiction psychology is a demand occupation at say the least. Addictions to alcohol, illegal (heroin, marijuana, opium, cocaine...) as well as prescription drugs,(Xanax, Valium, Prozac to name a few) abound. Drugs are readily available and there are countless persons who believe they are the answer to their pain and their way of escape into a better life.

Many therapists choose to pursue a career in addiction psychology solely because addictions are such a prevalent problem in modern society. Drugs are more accessible than ever before and many mistakenly believe they offer a pain-free way of escaping internal pain.

These drugs include alcohol, prescription drugs and illegal drugs like heroin or opium. But people also get addicted to sex, abusive relationships, work and food. Whenever something takes over a person’s life to the point where they would risk anything in order to fulfill that desire, then they are addicted. Sadly, you will never lack work if you choose to specialize in addiction psychology.

You usually need to already have some sort of therapists’ license before you can enroll in addiction psychology degree programs. Because of scheduling issues, online schooling is becoming more and more of an attractive option.

Some colleges and universities will offer you the choice of attending a class in person or taking an online course. Depending on the individual program, you may be eligible even if you don’t have a therapists’ license, but possess a degree in special education or human services.

Colleges and universities are run like a business, which means they will work with you to try and get you attend their classes. This means that if you ask for financial aid they are likely to even offer grants or loans. If you decide to get a loan from your bank, the college should be able to help you with the paperwork. Check with the individual financial aid department of each college or university that offers addiction psychology degree programs you are interested in.

A degree in addiction psychology can open many doors not only for your career, but it is a great doorway to help those in need.