Medically reviewed by Gabriela Asturias, MD on June 24, 2024Struggling 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.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
342 N Water St, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202
Carla Weismantel is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. They treat Addiction, Abuse, Self-Harm.
The best of mental healthcare in one place. At Geode, we combine full-spectrum psychiatry and talk therapy to better meet changing patient needs.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
486 W Boughton Rd, Bolingbrook, Illinois 60440
Ada Wang is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Bolingbrook, Illinois. They treat Addiction, Trauma, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
The best of mental healthcare in one place. At Geode, we combine full-spectrum psychiatry and talk therapy to better meet changing patient needs.
Psychologist
Remote only
Michelle Litwer is a Psychologist in undefined, undefined and has been in practice for 8 years. They treat Addiction, Grief and Loss, Career.
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.
Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)
2409 South Rural Road, STE C, Tempe, Arizona 85282
Sandra Tursini is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Tempe, Arizona and has been in practice for 30 years. They treat Addiction, Psychosis, Peer Difficulties.
Caring LPC with 30+ years’ expertise in diverse counseling areas, committed to recognizing individual worth and guiding clients through life's challenges
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, Eating Concerns, Grief and Loss.
We see clients of all genders, ethnicities, and cultures.
Psychiatrist
1600 Olive Chapel Road, Apex, North Carolina 27502
Vinay Saranga is a Psychiatrist in Apex, North Carolina. They treat Addiction, Schizophrenia, Schizophreniform and Brief Psychosis, Medication Concerns.
Mental health disorders are unique. In addition to medication management, we offer TMS Therapy and IV Ketamine that can help when nothing else does.
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:
SUD can range from mild to severe, and early intervention through substance abuse counseling increases the chances of long-term recovery.
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:
Problematic use or addiction, on the other hand:
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.
It can be hard to recognize when use has become a problem, especially because denial and secrecy are common. Some questions to ask include:
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.
Substance use and mental health are deeply connected. Many people with addiction also live with co-occurring disorders, such as:
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.
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:
This kind of comprehensive approach is often called dual diagnosis treatment.
Remember, recovery is possible. With early intervention, a supportive network, and the right professional care, you can overcome the challenges of Addiction and build a fulfilling life. We are here to help you find care.
