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Cocaine primarily exerts its reinforcing and addictive properties by blocking dopamine reuptake at presynaptic terminals, particularly in the mesolimbic reward pathway (ventral tegmental area → nucleus accumbens). This blockade leads to increased synaptic dopamine, producing euphoria, heightened energy, and reinforcement of drug-seeking behavior. Serotonin modulation (Option A) contributes to mood changes but is not the core mechanism of reinforcement. GABAergic activity (Option C) is more associated with depressants like benzodiazepines and alcohol. Glutamate suppression in the cerebellum (Option D) is not the key driver of cocaine’s reinforcing properties. By understanding dopamine’s central role, counselors can better explain craving, compulsive use, and why psychosocial and pharmacologic interventions targeting dopamine regulation are under investigation. This neurobiological knowledge informs psychoeducation and relapse prevention by highlighting how powerful neuroadaptations can override rational decision-making.