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Substance Use Treatment
I have specialized in treating people with substance abuse and addiction issues since 1997. I have treated both teens and adults, in group, individual, residential, and outpatient settings. My approach includes cognitive behavioral strategies, motivational interviewing, behavioral interventions, family systems approaches, and abstinence based approaches. I frequently incorporate IFS and EMDR practices in treating addictions for those who have a history of trauma. I am very familiar with 12-step programs, although I also work with people practicing abstinence who are not involved in 12-step programs. I believe that in substance abuse therapy, one size does not fit all.
I strongly believe that addictions affect every member of the family and each person closely related to the addicted individual needs support to cope with the devastating affects of addiction in the family.
For those who are already abstaining from drug or alcohol use I use an Abstinence Model which incorporates strategies to maintain sobriety, supporting spirituality and 12 step work (if desired), overall wellness practices and psycho-education.
Approaches to treating people who are still using substances:
For those who are not ready/able/willing to stop using alcohol and or drugs altogether, but are looking at ways to reduce the negative consequences associated with their substance use, I use an approach called Moderation Management, (MM). MM can give adults an option to explore moderate drinking if they are not sure about committing to an abstinence only lifestyle. I provide support in a safe, confidential and non-judgmental environment. For more information on Moderation Management visit https://moderation.org/
In working with people who are experimenting or regularly using drugs and alcohol, I use approaches called Motivational Interviewing and Harm Reduction. These evidence based practices allow individuals to focus on what is important to them, and make decisions about their substance use from a place of self-motivation as opposed to feeling pushed, judged, or controlled by others.