I specialize in individual therapy for adults who overuse alcohol and drugs. Below you can find information about my philosophy for changing unhealthy habits. I explain the process I engage in to assess whether or not a behavior is getting out of hand. I also provide information about the treatment I offer to address alcohol and drug use that has become problematic.

Most people feel torn and ambivalent about changing—that'sassessBelow, normal! Despite the problems a specific behavior has brought on, there are many reasons that explain your choices. Even bad habits have benefits and rewards.

Alcohol, drugs, cigarettes, and gambling have the potential to become problematic and/or addictive. They may result in a loss of control and lead to negative consequences. They may interfere with your work and your daily responsibilities. They may cause health problems. They may also interfere with your relationships and contribute to conflicts with your family and friends.

Many substances and activities have the potential to become problematic. Internet use, video games, pain medication, pornography, food, and shopping can become excessive and lead to negative consequences.

My experience working with individuals who struggle with addiction has taught me the importance of understanding people’s motivation for change versus the status quo. I use a technique called motivational interviewing (MI) to help you make informed choices by exploring what is important to you. We look at your actions and make sure that they are aligned with your values and what you care about. I embrace the spirit of this approach, which is collaborative, non-judgmental, compassionate, accepting, evocative, empowering, authentic, and respectful.

To help you make a decision about whether you should make a change or not, we discuss three main questions:

• Why is this change important to you?
  
  
• What makes you feel confident that you can make the change?
  
  
• Is this the right time for a change?

Motivational interviewing uses different strategies and techniques to enhance motivation to change. A simple yet effective and enlightening technique is a “pros and cons” exercise. It is important to recognize not only the negative consequences of a particular behavior but also what it brings. It’s important to validate what you might lose if you change. As an objective observer, I might see and point out factors that you have overlooked. In addition, I will provide you with objective feedback and share relevant scientific information.

If you decide that a change is in your best interest, we will then work on building your confidence and how you will be successful at changing. We elaborate a plan; we identify specific, measurable, attainable, and realistic steps to change. I will draw on your past successes and your strengths to solidify your action plan. If you want suggestions and resources, I will share with you what has helped others in similar situations.

Motivational Interviewing (MI) was designed as a short-term intervention. 1–4 sessions can be helpful in boosting motivation and commitment to change. There are many research studies that support the effectiveness of MI.

Once you start taking steps towards change, you need to maintain the change, and that may be the hardest part! You may need to adjust other areas of your life to support your change. Your family and friends need to encourage your efforts. Your lifestyle needs to fit with your new choices. You may need to learn new coping strategies to deal with difficult emotions. Otherwise, your changes won’t be sustainable in the long run.

Relapse for addictions is the norm; 75% of people relapse in the first 3 months of quitting alcohol or drugs. These statistics are not meant to discourage you. Instead, we need to prepare you for an uphill battle and the obstacles you will face. We need to monitor your urges. We need to fight off the thoughts that are tempting you and creating doubt about your commitment. And if you slip up or fall down, we need to learn from your experience to find the loopholes and solidify your stance.

In terms of length of treatment, some people may benefit from 1–4 sessions to get motivated and start the change process. Others may want 12–15 sessions to consolidate the change and adjust other areas of their lives. In some cases, long-term therapy for addictions may be necessary, especially if you have a history of trauma and violence or if you struggle with other mental health issues. Lastly, some individuals may require detox services to withdraw safely from alcohol and drugs.

 

“If we can share our story with someone who responds with empathy and understanding, shame can’t survive." – Brené Brown