© Lauren Puglisi
In substance use disorder counseling, if you deal with the behavior without confronting the underlying issues, you’re just switching chairs on a sinking ship. What does the behavior mean?
Do you know why you’re misusing substances?
Are you looking for good feelings about yourself?
Trying to drown your pain?
Trying to avoid dealing with certain people or situations in your life?
Did you grow up with a parent who misused substances and, though you swore you’d never be like your parent, here you are following in those footsteps?
Discover the Underlying Reasons for Substance Use Disorder
People use substances for all kinds of reasons. Together we can explore what your reasons are, and look at productive ways to deal with the issues underlying the behavior. It’s important to do so as substance misuse potentially leads to a host of further problems both physical and psychological; and these difficulties, when unattended, become compounded over time.
Substances that are often misused include:
- Alcohol
- Marijuana
- Tobacco
- Opioids
- Cocaine
- Amphetamines
Treatment for each requires a compassionate and understanding approach that takes the entirety of the individual into account.
Treatment for Substance Use Disorder is Available
What about treatment? Do you have to go to an inpatient or outpatient rehab? Do you have to go to 12-step meetings? Different people respond to different types of treatment.
Don’t be led astray by popular belief: treatment for substance use disorder not only exists but is very effective. The largest detriment to treatment is the individual. Shame or embarrassment may prevent them from seeking help.
It’s not a one-size-fits-all treatment. Because you are not just your mind, but the person who you are in your relationships and your physical being. We understand that the focus given to you in stand-alone treatment is necessary for an effective recovery, and we’ll work on a plan to help you achieve your goals.
Oftentimes substance misuse is a consequence of other underlying issues, such as depression or anxiety. We know that effective treatment must uncover the foundation of the misuse. It’s not enough to tackle the symptom; the underlying reasons must be addressed as well. Otherwise, the triggers that lead one to misuse substances will persist.
Or maybe you’ve completed an inpatient or outpatient treatment program and you want support to build on the changes you’ve made. This is a tender time and it can be tough to deal with temptations, the guilt you feel over your past behavior, and family members and friends who don’t understand the new you. Continued care through counseling will give you the support needed to develop healthy routines after your treatment.
Or a family member is struggling with substance misuse and you want help to deal with the challenges in your everyday life. How do you keep from getting caught up in their struggles? How can you feel good about your life, if your loved one is using?
© Lauren Puglisi
Through counseling, you will learn the underlying nature of substance misuse and ways in which you can effectively communicate with loved ones to help establish a healthy relationship.
Experienced Substance Use Disorder Counseling NYC
I’ve counseled a wide range of people with substance misuse issues—and their family members—at employee assistance programs, a treatment facility, and in my private practice. Maybe you want to begin an exploration into what the behavior means and the idea of change. Or maybe you’ve thought about this for a while and know you’re ready to change. Either way, you can give me a call at 212-353-0295 or send an email, and we’ll set up an appointment to meet. Effective substance use disorder counseling is here!