Substance Use Disoder

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Substance use disorders are treatable medical conditions, not failures of character. They involve changes in brain circuits that regulate reward, motivation, and self-control — which is why willpower alone often proves insufficient. Recognizing substance use disorders is essential for effective treatment for substance use disorder.

Common signs include:

- Using more, or for longer, than you intended

- Wanting to cut down but finding you can't

- Experiencing cravings

- Needing more to achieve the same effect

- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when you stop

- Continuing to use despite harm to health, relationships, work, or legal standing

Mental health and substance use frequently intersect. Many individuals turn to alcohol or drugs to cope with anxiety, depression, trauma symptoms, or untreated ADHD — a temporary solution that often exacerbates these issues over time.

Effectively addressing mental health and substance use together is crucial. Treating one condition while ignoring the other seldom leads to long-term success. Therefore, we will inquire about your substance use directly — not for judgment, but to ensure we have the accurate understanding necessary for your treatment.

We provide medication treatment for alcohol use disorder and also focus on treatment for substance use disorders and co-occurring psychiatric conditions, as part of a comprehensive approach to mental health and substance use. Our ongoing management is integral to your recovery journey. Additionally, we can coordinate referrals for intensive outpatient programs, residential treatment, detox, and recovery support tailored for those dealing with substance use disorders. 

You do not need to be abstinent to be seen here, and you will not be discharged for a relapse. We understand that relapse is often a part of the course of the illness for many individuals, and it serves as crucial information that informs the treatment plan — not grounds for dismissal.

We do not currently offer buprenorphine (Suboxone) as a treatment for substance use disorders, specifically for opioid use disorder. If you need medication treatment for substance use disorders, we are here to help you find a suitable provider or program that offers it. We may consider adding this service in the future as part of our commitment to mental health and substance use.