We commonly support clients in understanding whether they have substance use, substance dependence, heavy use, and/or addiction. One can not tell the difference by just looking at the behaviors. Our therapists can support you in exploring the causes and reasons that you return to drinking/using and which group you fall into.

Substance Use Disorder

Substance use disorder (SUD) is when someone continues to misuse a substance even though it negatively effects their life. Symptoms can range from moderate to severe and typically includes dependence to the physical drug. Repeated substance use can cause changes in how the brain functions. These changes can last long after the immediate effects of the substance wears off, or in other words, after the period of intoxication

When receiving therapy and treatment, it is important that the entire family unit receives help. There is always someone struggling with co-dependency supporting a severe substance abuser. It is important that all those involved learn the symptoms and behaviors of the disorder.

Substance use disorder is the only true mental health disorder acknowledged by the Diagnostic Statistical Manual (DSM-V)

Addiction

Substance use becomes abuse when you consistently use the substance to cope with painful experiences.  Substance abuse becomes an addiction when a physiological and psychological dependence on the substance or behavior occurs and begins disrupting other areas of your life.  We can work with you to address the underlying pain, help you overcome dependencies, and develop healthy coping skills so you don’t have to continue the painful cycle of addiction. Substance dependence is different than addiction. Dependence is when you’re having a physiological craving for the substance; addiction is when you are psychologically craving.

You should always consult a physician or doctor before you decide to withdraw or abstain from a substance you have been using long term. It is possible to severely harming yourself of killing yourself.

We focus on recovery from a holistic and 12-step perspective. Addiction is a complex but treatable disease that affects both brain function and behaviors. Through therapy, clients can recognize, avoid, and cope with the situations in which they are most likely to use drugs/alcohol.