Jackie's Counseling on Alcohol Issues

Sep 3, 2024

Counseling Session Transcript

Introduction

  • Discussion between counselor and Jackie regarding recent life difficulties.
  • Main concern: Increased alcohol consumption.

Alcohol Consumption Patterns

  • Jackie reports increased drinking; part of daily life but concerning increase.
  • Frequency: Drinking 3-4 nights a week.
  • Typically drinks more with friends on weekends.
  • Drinks with co-workers during the week.

Drinking Habits

  • Initially drank 2 beers/hour, now includes shots with beer.
  • Consumes about 3-4 drinks/hour.
  • Feels the need to drink more to achieve desired effects.

Attempts to Reduce Drinking

  • Attempts to limit going out to twice a week often fail.
  • Influence of social circle and FOMO (Fear of Missing Out).
  • Frustration with not sticking to plans.

Time and Alcohol Use

  • Acknowledges spending potentially excessive time drinking.
  • Not overly distressed but aware of alternative uses of time.

Craving for Alcohol

  • Anticipation of end of work for drinking.
  • Cravings occur during social events like barbecues.

Impact on Life

Work and Responsibilities

  • No issues with work performance.
  • Drinking has not caused absenteeism.

Social Life

  • Considers social life enhanced due to drinking.
  • No reported social problems.

Important Activities

  • No missed important activities; alcohol usually present during such events.

Safety and Health

  • No engagement in dangerous activities due to alcohol.
  • Previous ADHD diagnosis in childhood but not current issue.
  • No worsening of health problems due to alcohol.

Drug Use

  • No current drug use, only alcohol.
  • Past teenage marijuana use; not currently active.

Withdrawal Symptoms

  • Experiences no withdrawal symptoms when not drinking.

Counseling and Support

  • Open to counseling services.
  • No immediate belief in the need for counseling but willing to try.

Conclusion

  • Counselor appreciates Jackie’s openness.
  • Plans to schedule counseling sessions.

These notes provide a summary of the key points discussed during the session and outline Jackie's current situation regarding alcohol consumption and its impacts on her life.