The Impact of Substance Use or Compulsive Behaviors

Substance use or compulsive behaviors rarely begin as a problem. They often start as a source of enjoyment, stress relief, or simply something that feels normal because others around you are doing the same. Over time, though, what once felt like a choice can begin to feel like a cycle that’s hard to break. Behaviors that once provided comfort or pleasure may start to erode health, relationships, and self-confidence. Many people eventually find that what initially seemed helpful now leaves them feeling stuck, ashamed, or disconnected from the life they want to live.

Compulsive Behaviors may include:

• Alcohol or Drug Use

• Internet Use

• Video Games

• Shopping

• Pornography or Sex

• Gambling

Recognizing the Signs

You may notice:

• A behavior that feels increasingly difficult to control

• Interference with work, school, family, or social life

• Needing more of the substance or behavior to get the same effect

• Using more than you intended to - including scrolling through social media, or overspending online

• Turning to the behavior to cope with painful emotions or trauma

• Feelings of shame, secrecy, or fear of judgment that keep you from seeking support

How Therapy Helps

Therapy offers a nonjudgmental space to examine the role these behaviors play in your life and to decide what kind of change feels right for you. Some people work toward abstinence, others aim for moderation. My role is to support your autonomy while helping you:

• Clarify your values and how your behavior fits (or conflicts) with them

• Explore the emotional and environmental factors that fuel current patterns

• Develop coping strategies to reduce reliance on substances or compulsive behaviors and support long-term change

• Address co-occurring challenges such as trauma, anxiety, or depression that may underlie the behavior

The goal is not only to reduce the harm of these behaviors but also to build a more satisfying and values-driven life.

My Approach

I provide a nonjudgemental and collaborative environment where we set goals together and work at a pace that fits you. You’ll never hear me call you an “addict” - unless you find that label helpful and sustaining. Together we’ll explore both the costs and benefits of the behaviors you are struggling with, so we can understand how they make sense, and also why you might want to change them. We can be accepting of ambivalence and the pace of change, while also working to develop practical skills that gives you a sense of agency in this process.  

My work integrates Motivational Interviewing (MI) to strengthen your reasons for and commitment to change, along with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to build sustainable coping strategies and clear, values-aligned goals. For clients where trauma is part of the picture, I also draw on my training in evidence-based trauma therapies to address both issues together.

Learn more about who I am and how I work.

Taking the Next Step

Seeking support for substance use or compulsive behaviors can feel intimidating, especially if you fear judgment or losing control over the process. In therapy, you set the goals, and we work together to find a path that feels right for you. If you’re ready to explore what change might look like, I invite you to reach out for a free consultation.