Substance Use Counseling
Substance use counseling at Carnation Psychology supports teens and adults who are contemplating their substance use - questioning it, weighing it, or ready to change specific behaviors and habits to build clarity and momentum toward that change.
This work is best suited for clients in the contemplation or early action stages: you're noticing your use isn't serving you the way it used to, you're curious about cutting back or stopping, or you want support building healthier habits around alcohol or drug use. Using Motivational Interviewing, we work through that ambivalence at your pace. I won't tell you what to do, but I will help you get honest with yourself about what you want and what's getting in the way.
This practice is not equipped to treat severe or high-acuity substance use disorders on its own (i.e. daily heavy drinking). Significant addiction is best treated by a coordinated team, typically including an addiction medicine psychiatrist, regular medical monitoring, and structured social or family support. I'll help connect you to that level of care if it's what you need. For clients already receiving higher-level treatment, I'm also glad to provide complementary individual counseling alongside that team.
FAQ:
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That’s right where this work starts, motivational interviewing is built for that I’m not so sure yet phase, not just for people who’ve already decided.
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No. I refer out to higher levels of care (addiction medicine, IOP/PHP, or inpatient treatment) for severe substance use, and can help you find the right referral.
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Yes! I regularly coordinate with other providers when a client is receiving a higher level of care elsewhere.
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No, the goal is defined by you. Whether that’s moderation, abstinence, or simply understanding your relationship with substances better.
Still have questions or want to discuss more?
Contact me.