Addiction Counseling

In elementary school when the teacher asked us “What do you want to be when you grow up?” No one ever said, “an addict.” No one would choose to be addicted to substances, but millions of people are addicted to drugs, alcohol, or other behavioral addictions. There is a high correlation between trauma and addiction. Meaning that many people who abuse substances often are living with unresolved trauma, anxiety, and/or depression. Many people find out quickly that when they are using substances or engaging in other addictions, the trauma, anxiety, and/or depression lessens or even goes away. Thus, the brain learns “if you want to feel better, then use.” However, after engaging in the addictive behavior the individual often feels shame and guilt for using and notices that the depression, anxiety, or trauma reminders come back. Thus in in an effort to “feel better” the individual may engage in the addictive behavior again, creating the vicious cycle of addiction.  An addiction therapist knows that in addition to treating the triggers for wanting to use, equal attention has to be placed on treating the underlying mental health issues that started the addiction in the first place. Addiction alters the chemical structure of the brain. For this reason, there are many safe non-habit forming medications that can help with urges and cravings to use as well as to help decrease anxiety and depressive symptoms, increasing the chance of sustained sobriety. Your therapist will discuss these options with you to see if a referral to our licensed medical doctor and/or nurse practitioner is something you are interested in.