Addiction & Substance Abuse

Understanding, Treatment & Support

Addiction and substance abuse can have devastating effects on an individual’s life, relationships, and overall well-being. At Carley Counseling Services, compassionate and comprehensive therapy is available to help individuals struggling with addiction or substance use. Whether you’re dealing with alcohol, drugs, or other addictive behaviors, there is help and hope for recovery. Therapy provides a safe space to explore the underlying causes of addiction and develop healthier coping strategies for long-term healing.

What is Addiction and Substance Abuse?

Addiction is a complex and chronic brain disease that involves compulsive substance use despite harmful consequences. It affects a person’s ability to control their behavior around substances or addictive activities, leading to both physical and psychological dependence. Substance abuse refers to the harmful or hazardous use of substances, such as alcohol, drugs, or prescription medications, leading to significant distress or impairment in daily life.

Types of Addiction & Substance Abuse

Illustration of a bottle next to a glass, hinting at themes of addiction. The tall bottle bears a purple label and orange body, while the short glass matches its color, suggesting they share a similar liquid. The image's simple, cartoonish style adds an intriguing layer to the narrative.

Alcohol Addiction

Consistent, uncontrollable drinking that affects physical health, relationships, and functioning.

Illustration of three pills: a red and white capsule and two round tablets, one orange and one yellow, representing tools in therapy for overcoming substance abuse.

Drug Addiction

This includes both illegal drugs (e.g., heroin, cocaine) and prescription drug misuse (e.g., opioids, benzodiazepines).

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Behavioral Addictions

Behaviors such as gambling, shopping, or internet use can also become addictive and destructive, though they don’t involve substances.

Alcohol Addiction

Consistent, uncontrollable drinking that affects physical health, relationships, and functioning.

Drug Addiction

This includes both illegal drugs (heroin, cocaine) and prescription drug misuse (opioids, benzodiazepines).

Behavioral Addictions

Behaviors such as gambling, shopping, or internet use can also become addictive and destructive, though they don’t involve substances.

Addiction is more than just a physical reliance on a substance. It’s also about the emotional and psychological struggles that often accompany substance use, including denial, isolation, and shame. Recovery is possible with the right treatment and support.

Symptoms of Addiction & Substance Abuse

Recognizing the signs of addiction and substance abuse is critical to seeking help. Some common symptoms include:

Increased Tolerance

Needing more of the substance to achieve the same effect.

Withdrawal Symptoms

Experiencing physical or emotional withdrawal when not using the substance.

Loss of Control

Unable to stop or reduce substance use, even when wanting to quit.

Neglecting Responsibilities

Substance use interferes with work, school, or family obligations.

Preoccupation with Substance

Constant thoughts about using or obtaining the substance.

Risky Behaviors

Engaging in dangerous or risky actions while under the influence, such as driving or unprotected sex.

Isolation

Withdrawing from family, friends, or previously enjoyed activities to focus on substance use.

Emotional Instability

Mood swings, irritability, depression, or anxiety related to substance use.

If these symptoms sound familiar, it may be time to seek professional help. Addiction is not a moral failing; it is a medical condition that can be treated through therapy and support.

The Impact of Addiction & Substance Abuse

The impact of addiction goes far beyond the individual who is using. It affects relationships, physical and mental health, work performance, and overall quality of life. Without treatment, addiction can lead to severe consequences, such as:

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Health Problems

Addiction can lead to liver damage, heart disease, respiratory issues, or overdose.

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Broken Relationships

Addiction often leads to conflict, mistrust, and disconnection from loved ones.

Emotional & Mental Health Issues

Many individuals with substance abuse issues also struggle with depression, anxiety, or trauma, exacerbating the cycle of addiction.

Health Problems

Addiction can lead to liver damage, heart disease, respiratory issues, or overdose.

Broken Relationships

Addiction often leads to conflict, mistrust, and disconnection from loved ones.

Emotional & Mental Health Issues

Many individuals with substance abuse issues also struggle with depression, anxiety, or trauma, exacerbating the cycle of addiction.

However, with the right support and treatment, recovery is possible. Therapy offers a safe and structured environment where individuals can address the underlying causes of addiction and build new, healthier habits.

Treatment for Addiction & Substance Abuse

At Carley Counseling Services, therapy is tailored to each individual’s unique situation and needs. Addiction treatment involves more than just quitting substances; it’s about healing the mind, body, and spirit. The approach is rooted in evidence-based therapies designed to foster long-term recovery and emotional resilience.

Psychotherapy (Talk Therapy)

Several therapeutic modalities can be effective in treating addiction and substance abuse. The following therapies are used to help individuals gain insight into their behaviors, manage cravings, and develop healthier coping mechanisms:

IFS (Internal Family Systems)

IFS explores the different “parts” of yourself that may be contributing to addictive behaviors. By healing the wounded parts and promoting self-compassion, individuals can reduce the need for substance use as a way to cope with pain or trauma.

Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing

EMDR

EMDR is effective for individuals who use substances to cope with past trauma. By processing traumatic memories, EMDR can reduce emotional distress and the urge to self-medicate through substances.

DBT

DBT helps individuals manage intense emotions and reduce impulsive behaviors associated with addiction. Skills in emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and mindfulness are taught to prevent relapse and maintain sobriety.

CBT

CBT focuses on identifying and challenging the negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to addiction. It helps individuals build healthier habits and develop alternative ways to cope with triggers and cravings.

ACT

ACT encourages individuals to accept difficult emotions without judgment and commit to living in alignment with their values, despite the presence of urges or cravings.

IFS (Internal Family Systems)

EMDR

EMDR is effective for individuals who use substances to cope with past trauma. By processing traumatic memories, EMDR can reduce emotional distress and the urge to self-medicate through substances.

DBT

CBT

ACT

ACT encourages individuals to accept difficult emotions without judgment and commit to living in alignment with their values, despite the presence of urges or cravings.

Relapse Prevention Planning

An important aspect of addiction treatment is relapse prevention. While relapses can happen, having a comprehensive relapse prevention plan in place helps individuals manage triggers, develop coping strategies, and stay committed to long-term recovery. Therapy focuses on identifying high-risk situations and building a strong support network to help manage setbacks.

Dual Diagnosis Treatment

Many individuals struggling with addiction also have underlying mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, or trauma. At Carley Counseling Services, therapy addresses both the addiction and any co-occurring mental health conditions, ensuring comprehensive care for lasting recovery.

Medication Management

In some cases, medication may be necessary to help manage cravings or underlying mental health conditions that contribute to substance use. Collaboration with a psychiatrist or primary care provider ensures that medication is safely and effectively integrated into your treatment plan when needed.

Lifestyle Changes and Self-Care

Recovery from addiction requires more than just quitting substances—it involves adopting healthier habits that promote emotional and physical well-being. Some key lifestyle changes include:

Developing a regular sleep routine

Proper sleep helps restore balance and promotes mental clarity.

Engaging in physical activity

Exercise can help manage cravings, reduce stress, and improve mood.

Building a support system

Strengthen connections with friends, family, or recovery groups to stay accountable and supported.

Mindfulness and relaxation

Incorporating mindfulness practices like meditation can help reduce stress and improve emotional regulation.

Nutritional care

A healthy diet is essential for recovery, helping the body heal from the effects of substance use.

Take the First Step Toward Recovery

Addiction and substance abuse are powerful struggles, but recovery is possible with the right support. Therapy provides a compassionate and nonjudgmental space to address the emotional pain that drives substance use, develop healthier coping mechanisms, and build a future free from addiction.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction or substance abuse, reach out to Carley Counseling Services today. Take the first step toward healing, hope, and long-term recovery. Contact the office to schedule an appointment and begin your journey to a healthier, substance-free life.