Understanding Substance Use and Abuse
Understandably, substance use often begins as a way to cope with overwhelming life stressors, past trauma, or intense feelings. Many people find themselves in a cycle they didn’t intend, and it’s important to know that you’re not alone in this experience. Perhaps you’ve noticed that what started as occasional use has escalated into a recurring pattern that’s now negatively impacting your mental health, essential relationships, or even your career. Substance use disorders (SUDs) are not a matter of moral failing or weak willpower. They are complex conditions shaped by biological, physiological, and environmental factors. What matters most is that substance abuse is treatable, and recovery is possible.
When you are in an active phase of substance abuse, it can feel downright daunting, as if you’re caught in a vicious circle with no way out. Feeling trapped is real, and it’s okay to acknowledge how difficult it is. Facing substance use challenges takes immense courage. It’s a sign of strength to even be considering change, and this quest, while challenging, is also an opportunity for profound personal growth and building a life aligned with your deepest values.
As a licensed psychotherapist, certified drug and alcohol counselor, I’ve specialized in assisting people like you break free from substance abuse. Whether you’re considering change for the first time or have struggled with previous treatment attempts, as your partner in this process, I’m here to walk alongside you (no matter how arduous it may get), providing unconditional support and tools you need to break free from this course and begin rebuilding your life from a place of renewed strength and genuine hope. My background includes leading the intensive outpatient program for substance abuse at the Stone Institute of Psychiatry at Northwestern Memorial Hospital and advanced training in substance abuse treatment at Yale University Medical School. This foundation equips me to provide deeply personalized, evidence-based care to you.
Therapy for Substance Use and Abuse in Chicago
Integrative, evidence-based counseling tailored to your needs.
Personal Recovery Pathways for Individuals
I tailor counseling to clients’ needs by drawing upon modalities that foster lasting change. My approach integrates
01
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
We will work together to help you identify and reframe the thought patterns that drive substance use, while building practical coping strategies you can implement immediately into your daily life.
02
Motivational Interviewing (MI)
We will have open, supportive conversations to help you connect with your values and goals. This process empowers you to discover your reasons for change and build the confidence and assurance you need to take meaningful steps toward a life that reflects what matters most to you.
03
Trauma-Informed Care
This approach gently addresses the root causes of addiction, especially when substance abuse may have begun as a way to cope with unresolved trauma. I aim to help you heal past wounds and build a lasting recovery foundation.
04
Relapse Prevention:
We will equip you with practical, personalized tools and strategies to navigate potential triggers confidently, manage stress, and learn from setbacks while strengthening your progress.
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Harm Reduction Strategies
If abstinence feels overwhelming, I offer confidential guidance toward reducing risk as a step toward healthier choices, such as exploring safer use or reducing frequency.
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Contingency Management
Using positive reinforcement strategies, I will promote & reward your progress in therapy.
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Pharmacotherapy
There are many medications for substance abuse, often called first-line treatment. Substance abuse is like a chronic medical condition, like diabetes, which requires medication and lifestyle changes to be managed effectively. As a psychotherapist, I can not prescribe medication, but I will provide you with referrals.
Contact me today for a confidential consultation.
For Couples Navigating Addiction Together
Substance abuse often affects not only the individual but also his or her intimate relationships.
I offer therapy designed to
- Rebuild trust and improve communication.
- Address the relational patterns that may contribute to or sustain substance abuse.
- Develop shared goals for recovery and support.
- Create healthier boundaries and coping strategies, whether one or both partners struggle with substance abuse.
I integrate evidence-based approaches, including
01
The Couple Recovery Development Approach
Developed by Dr. Robert Navara, this approach combines systemic family approaches and the Gottman Method Couples Therapy. This relational model focuses on understanding how substance abuse impacts the couple or family system and shifting it from an “addicted system” to a “recovering couple system” by addressing communication patterns, roles, and boundaries.
02
Behavioral Couples Therapy
I facilitate conversation, teach skills, and guide you in implementing strategies that support recovery and emotional health. During sessions, you can expect: reflection, goal-setting, and tools to strengthen recovery and relational resilience. This approach addresses substance use and helps you rebuild trust, commitment, and connection. Working together as a couple, I help you create a stable, supportive environment that promotes long-term success.
FAQs
Common questions about substance use and abuse therapy
What can I expect in my first session?
Your first session will be a safe, supportive space to share experiences. We will discuss your concerns, challenges, and unique goals for therapy. Together, we will begin to develop a personalized plan that best suits your needs.
How long does therapy usually last?
The duration of therapy varies. We will work together to determine the best timeline for you to attain the outcome you desire.
Will my session be confidential?
I value your privacy, and all information shared in our sessions is confidential. We will discuss any limits upfront.
How do I know if therapy is right for me?
If you are concerned about your substance use and are seeking support, therapy can be a beneficial option. I am dedicated to going the extra mile to get you from where you are now to where you want to be; however, if you do not feel I am the correct fit after our initial meeting, there are countless extraordinary providers in the city.
Take the First Step
If you are ready to begin, please schedule a free consultation. I would love to hear from you. Together, we can create a path that leads to empowerment, lasting change, and becoming a better version of yourself.
YOU MATTER, and YOU DON’T HAVE TO DO IT ALONE!