Issues
Substance Abuse
When Substance Use Becomes a Way to Cope
Substance use often begins as an attempt to manage pain, stress, or emotional overwhelm. Over time, it can start to interfere with relationships, work, and a sense of self. For many people, substance abuse is closely connected to unresolved emotional wounds, attachment patterns, or long-standing feelings of shame or disconnection. The “I” in illness stands for “isolation.” Indeed the opposite of “addiction” is “connection.”
I approach this work with deep respect for how difficult and complex recovery can be. I also bring personal understanding to this process, as I have been clean and sober for 22 years and know firsthand how meaningful and challenging recovery can be.
Common Signs Substance Use May Be a Concern
Substance abuse can affect individuals and families in different ways, and it often shows up gradually rather than all at once.
Common experiences include:
- Using substances to manage stress, emotions, or conflict
- Difficulty stopping or cutting back despite negative consequences
- Increased secrecy, isolation, or withdrawal from loved ones
- Strained relationships and loss of trust
- Feelings of shame, guilt, or hopelessness
- Emotional numbness or increased reactivity
- Fear of change or uncertainty about life without substances
How I Support Healing and Recovery
My work with substance abuse focuses on both recovery and the emotional patterns underneath it. I support individuals and families in understanding what substance use has been doing for them emotionally, while helping them build healthier ways to cope and connect.
In therapy, we work to:
- Explore emotional and relational triggers
- Reduce shame and increase self-understanding
- Strengthen emotional regulation and coping skills
- Support recovery within the context of relationships
- Rebuild trust and communication with loved ones
- Create stability that supports long-term recovery
My approach is compassionate, structured, and grounded in real-life experience, meeting you where you are without judgment.
Supporting Recovery Outside of Therapy
Recovery is supported not only in therapy, but through everyday choices and practices that promote stability and connection.
Helpful supports may include:
- Building consistent routines that support recovery
- Staying connected to supportive people and communities
- Learning to pause and respond rather than react
- Practicing self-compassion during setbacks or urges
- Paying attention to emotional and relational triggers
Recovery is not about perfection. It is about progress, support, and learning how to live with greater honesty and connection.
