Substance use disorder (SUD) is a complex condition in which there is uncontrolled use of a substance (drugs or alcohol) despite harmful consequences. If you or someone you care about is struggling with addiction or is using substances too often, it’s time for professional help. Most commonly, a person with a substance use disorder is addicted or overuses alcohol, cannabis, painkillers (opioids), heroin, stimulants, prescribed medications (like anxiety medications), and even tobacco/nicotine. Substances don’t discriminate. Anyone, including you, can become addicted. No matter your experience and struggles, if you’re ready to recover, Ally Psych is here to help.
Substance Abuse or Dependency can happen to anyone, and you may not even feel like it’s a problem for you. The signs and symptoms of addiction can be subtle and difficult to recognize. Here’s a short list of some of the most common signs and symptoms of substance abuse and addiction. If these sound familiar, reach out to work with our trained addiction therapist.
You experience a strong urge or desire to use the substance (alcohol, drug(s), or both).
You continue to use substances despite knowing that it is dangerous for you or is putting you in greater danger.
You gradually use more and more of the substance. For drugs, you use more than prescribed and/or for longer periods of time.
You ignore or put off other parts of your life in order to be able to use the substance.
Your use interferes with your relationships. This may be from physiological, psychological, or behavioral side effects of the substance.or others.
You have to use more and more of the substance in order to achieve the same result or feeling.
At Ally Psychological Services, we understand the complexity of addiction and substance use disorders. We understand that this wasn’t your plan and that you’re not a bad person. We know you’re probably tired of feeling judged and shamed by your friends and family. At Ally Psych, your specialized addiction therapist is here to help guide you through the critical steps of recovery. Whether you’re just starting your journey, have been in and out of rehab, or are just stepping out of rehab for the first time, we are here to help.
If you are unsure if your drinking is crossing the line into addiction, it is best to speak with a local addiction therapist, like the one at Ally Psych. Together you can discuss the specific details of your drinking so together, you can determine whether you have a substance abuse issue.
If you have concerns about your child’s behavior or substance use, it may be helpful to talk with a specialized drug and alcohol counselor to learn how you can support and confront them appropriately. It would also be best to set your child up with their own therapist who is trained in addiction treatment so they can help your child stop or reduce their negative behaviors.
Yes. Even though you were prescribed to take the medication, it doesn’t mean that it isn’t addictive. For instance, many people become dependent and addicted to their medication for anxiety or pain.
When you work with a trained and specialized therapist, like Brittany at Ally Psych, you will explore and process your emotional attachment to your drug(s) of choice and how to break away from them. You’ll also learn new ways to cope with the emotions that have been leading you to use.
No. While we may recommend sobriety from substances, we do not force that on anyone (including you). In situations where a person is not ready to commit to sobriety, we take a “Harm Reduction Model” approach to ensure that you’re being as safe as possible while using and also to limit the amount you use.
Yes. Individuals who want to stop or reduce their substance use have options other than talk therapy. One popular option is medication-assisted treatment. Another option offered at Ally Psych is Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP), which may be beneficial for some individuals struggling with addiction.
When you’re ready to talk, we’re ready to listen. Fill out the form below to get in touch with Ally Psych and schedule your appointment.
