Addiction

I offer compassionate, nonjudgmental help with clients who are struggling with addiction, whether to alcohol, other drugs, or sex. I have worked as an outpatient substance treatment counselor and as an HIV educator and risk reduction counselor. I am comfortable discussing and addressing behaviors that are often accompanied by feelings of guilt and shame. My goal is to help each client make healthier choices and acquire skills to replace addictive coping mechanisms.

I employ a combination of Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Behavioral (MBCB) and Harm Reduction theories. Each client and I join together in a collaborative partnership to discuss the readiness for change, strengths, limitations, resources, and factors that will support or hinder motivation. Goals are set based on these discussions, tailoring each plan to the individual. Most addictive behaviors are attempts to manage unpleasant or even distressing emotional states. MBCB provides relaxation and thinking techniques to manage these states, and Harm Reduction allows for the individual to acknowledge any movement toward reduction in harmful behaviors as success. Together, these approaches build self-confidence through acceptance and practical results.

Addiction can be one of the most challenging problems to address. Congratulations on taking the first step by reading this information. I invite you to take the next step by seeking help.