Find Substance Use Counseling

Medically reviewed by Gabriela Asturias, MD on May 23, 2025
Written by the MiResource team

Struggling with drugs or alcohol can feel overwhelming—but you're not alone, and help is available. Whether you're questioning your relationship with substances, coping with relapse, or trying to support someone you care about, substance abuse counseling offers judgment-free support and proven tools for change. Healing is possible, and it often begins with a single, courageous step: reaching out.

  • Carla Weismantel, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner

    Carla Weismantel

    Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner

    342 N Water St, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202

    Carla Weismantel is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. They treat Addiction, Abuse, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

    The best of mental healthcare in one place. At Geode, we combine full-spectrum psychiatry and talk therapy to better meet changing patient needs.

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  • Sarah Marty, Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

    Sarah Marty

    Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

    3230 University Avenue, Madison, Wisconsin 53705

    Sarah Marty is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Madison, Wisconsin and has been in practice for 6 years. They treat Addiction, Body Image, Physical Stress.

    I offer a free phone consult prior to the first session to see if we are a good match. I love what I do and that shows in my approach.

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  • Ada Wang, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner

    Ada Wang

    Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner

    486 W Boughton Rd, Bolingbrook, Illinois 60440

    Ada Wang is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Bolingbrook, Illinois. They treat Addiction, Drug Use, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD).

    The best of mental healthcare in one place. At Geode, we combine full-spectrum psychiatry and talk therapy to better meet changing patient needs.

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  • Michelle Litwer, Psychologist

    Michelle Litwer

    Psychologist

    Remote only

    Michelle Litwer is a Psychologist in undefined, undefined and has been in practice for 8 years. They treat Addiction, Conflict Resolution, Trauma.

    My main objective is to help clients manage their emotions, make decisions that are line with their values, and to live fulfilling and meaningful lives.

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  • Benitho Louissaint, Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN)

    Benitho Louissaint

    Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN), Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner

    6197 South Rural Road, Tempe, Arizona 85283

    Benitho Louissaint is a Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) in Tempe, Arizona. They treat Addiction, Medication Concerns, Depression.

    We see clients of all genders, ethnicities, and cultures.

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  • Shayda Ewalt, Psychotherapist

    Shayda Ewalt

    Psychotherapist, Certified Trauma Professional, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT)

    Remote only

    Shayda Ewalt is a Psychotherapist in undefined, undefined and has been in practice for 10 years. They treat Addiction, Relationship(s) with Parents/Children/Family, Work/Life Balance.

    Trauma-informed therapist specializing in EMDR, Brainspotting, and Somatic Experiencing for complex trauma, PTSD, anxiety, panic, or depression.

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What is substance use disorder?

Substance Use Disorder (SUD) is a medical and psychological condition that involves the problematic use of alcohol or drugs despite negative consequences. It affects brain function, behavior, relationships, and physical health. SUD is more than occasional use or bad habits—it's a chronic, often relapsing condition that changes how the brain perceives pleasure, stress, and decision-making.

Key signs include:

  • Inability to control use
  • Continued use despite negative consequences
  • Cravings or strong urges to use
  • Building a tolerance (needing more to feel the effect)
  • Withdrawal symptoms when stopping
  • Neglecting responsibilities or activities due to substance use

SUD can range from mild to severe, and early intervention through substance abuse counseling increases the chances of long-term recovery.


How is it different from casual use?

Not everyone who uses substances has a problem. Many people drink socially or use prescription medications responsibly. The key difference lies in how much the substance use interferes with your life.

Casual use typically:

  • Is infrequent and within safe limits
  • Doesn't cause significant harm or consequences
  • Isn't used to cope with stress, anxiety, or trauma
  • Can be easily stopped or moderated

Problematic use or addiction, on the other hand:

  • Escalates over time
  • Is used to self-medicate emotional pain
  • Interferes with relationships, work, health, or legal standing
  • Feels out of control

A substance use therapist can help you or your loved one assess where you fall on this spectrum and explore next steps without pressure or shame.


How do I know if I or someone I love has a problem with drugs or alcohol?

It can be hard to recognize when use has become a problem, especially because denial and secrecy are common. Some questions to ask include:

  • Do you or your loved one use substances to cope with stress, anxiety, trauma, or boredom?
  • Has use led to conflicts, job loss, health problems, or legal trouble?
  • Are there efforts to cut back that haven't been successful?
  • Are friends or family worried, even if you aren't?
  • Is more of the substance needed over time to feel the same effect?
  • Are you hiding how much or how often you use?

If you answered "yes" to several of these, substance abuse counseling may be beneficial. Early support can prevent deeper harm and offer pathways toward healing.


What mental health issues often occur alongside substance abuse?

Substance use and mental health are deeply connected. Many people with addiction also live with co-occurring disorders, such as:

  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • PTSD or complex trauma
  • Bipolar disorder
  • Personality disorders
  • Eating disorders

Substances are often used as a way to numb emotional pain, regulate mood, or cope with past trauma. But over time, they tend to worsen these conditions. A skilled substance abuse therapist will treat the whole person—not just the substance use.


Can therapy help with both addiction and mental illness at the same time?

Yes, and this is essential. Integrated treatment is key to long-term recovery for people with co-occurring disorders. When you only treat one issue—say, the addiction but not the depression—both tend to come back.

Effective addiction therapists use approaches that address both substance use and mental health, including:

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Reframes harmful thought patterns and behaviors
  • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): Builds emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal skills
  • Motivational Interviewing (MI): Strengthens your internal motivation for change
  • Trauma-informed care: Helps heal the root causes of addiction, not just the symptoms

This kind of comprehensive approach is often called dual diagnosis treatment.


What types of therapy are used to treat substance use disorders (e.g., CBT, DBT, motivational interviewing)?

There's no one-size-fits-all approach to addiction therapy. Effective treatment may include a combination of the following:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Helps you recognize and change thoughts, behaviors, and triggers related to substance use. Proven to reduce relapse risk and build coping skills.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

Originally developed for emotion regulation disorders, DBT for addiction is especially helpful for those with co-occurring mental health conditions. It emphasizes mindfulness, tolerance of distress, and building a life worth living.

Motivational Interviewing (MI)

A gentle, collaborative style of therapy that helps you explore ambivalence and strengthen your own desire to change—without pressure or judgment.

Contingency Management

Uses tangible rewards (like vouchers or incentives) to reinforce positive behaviors like abstinence or attending therapy.

Family Therapy

Addresses how addiction affects the entire family system, and supports rebuilding trust, communication, and accountability.

A good therapist specializing in addiction will customize your treatment based on your goals, needs, and background.


What is dual diagnosis treatment and why is it important?

Dual diagnosis treatment refers to integrated care for people who have both a substance use disorder and a mental health condition. It's essential because:

  • One condition often fuels the other (e.g., drinking to manage anxiety, or depression triggered by addiction)
  • Untreated mental illness can sabotage recovery
  • Substance use can interfere with psychiatric medications or therapy progress

Substance abuse counseling within a dual diagnosis framework treats both conditions as interconnected—so healing one supports healing the other. This approach improves outcomes, reduces relapse risk, and supports long-term wellness.


Is relapse a normal part of the recovery process?

Yes. Relapse is common—but not a failure. Recovery from addiction is a journey, not a straight line. Many people experience setbacks before finding stable recovery.

Therapy helps by:

  • Teaching how to respond to relapse with self-compassion and insight
  • Identifying triggers and developing stronger coping strategies
  • Redefining success beyond "perfect" sobriety
  • Encouraging ongoing growth and support

An experienced addiction therapist will work with you to make relapse a learning opportunity—not a reason to give up.


How do I find a therapist or rehab program that fits my needs?

Finding the right support can feel daunting, but you don't have to do it alone. Start by asking:

  • Do they have experience with substance abuse therapy?
  • Do they treat co-occurring mental health conditions?
  • Do they use evidence-based approaches like CBT or DBT?
  • Do they take your insurance or offer a sliding scale?
  • Do they offer in-person, online, or group options?

Resources include:

  • Psychology Today's directory (search "substance use therapist")
  • SAMHSA.gov treatment locator
  • Referrals from doctors or support groups
  • Recommendations from trusted friends, family, or peers in recovery

If you're open to programs, you can also explore inpatient, outpatient, or intensive outpatient (IOP) settings based on the severity of your needs.

Find care for you

Recovery is possible. With early intervention, a supportive community, and the right professional care, you can overcome challenges and build a fulfilling life. We’re here to help you find the support you need.

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