Addiction & substance use

Substance use

Living with addiction or substance use challenges often means relying on substances as a way to cope with emotional pain, stress, trauma, or overwhelm. Substance use can begin as a form of relief or regulation and gradually become something that feels difficult to control. These patterns exist on a spectrum and do not define a person’s worth or character.

Indicators

Substance use concerns may show up as increasing reliance on alcohol or drugs, difficulty cutting back, secrecy, or using substances to manage emotions or get through daily life. You may notice impacts on relationships, work, physical health, or emotional well-being, alongside feelings of shame, guilt, or frustration about these patterns.

How therapy can help

Therapy provides a non-judgmental space to explore the role substances play in your life and the needs they may be meeting. The goal is to reduce harm, strengthen emotional regulation, and support healthier coping strategies that feel sustainable over time.