Substance Use Treatment
Has Your Relationship With Substances Become More Complicated Than You Expected?
Understanding Substance Use: Beyond Labels and Judgment
Traditional approaches to substance use often rely on black-and-white categories—either you're "addicted" or you're not. This binary thinking fails to capture the complex reality that most people experience. Modern research reveals that substance use disorders exist on a spectrum of severity, with many factors influencing a person's relationship with substances.
These factors include genetic predisposition, early life experiences, trauma history, co-occurring mental health conditions, social environment, and the pharmacological properties of specific substances. Understanding these influences helps shift the narrative from moral failing or lack of willpower to a more comprehensive, compassionate view of substance use challenges.
Perhaps what began as a way to relax, socialize, or cope with difficult emotions has gradually shifted into something that feels less under your control. You might find yourself using substances more frequently, in larger amounts, or in situations you hadn't intended. Maybe you've noticed worrying changes in your health, relationships, or ability to meet your responsibilities.
Many people discover that their substance use exists in a gray area—not fitting stereotypical images of addiction, yet causing enough concern to question whether their relationship with substances remains healthy. You might find yourself making rules about your use, only to break them repeatedly. Perhaps you've tried to cut back or quit on your own but found it more challenging than expected.
At Holistic Counseling, we understand that substance use exists on a spectrum, from occasional use without consequences to severe dependency. Our non-judgmental approach meets you wherever you are on this continuum, offering compassionate support as you explore your relationship with substances and determine what changes might enhance your wellbeing.
Signs Your Relationship With Substances May Need Attention
According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), approximately 40.3 million Americans aged 12 or older had a substance use disorder in 2020. Yet studies suggest that only about 10% of those who could benefit from treatment receive it, often due to stigma, lack of resources, or uncertainty about whether their use qualifies as "serious enough" for help.
You might benefit from exploring your substance use if you've noticed:
Using larger amounts or for longer periods than intended
Persistent desire or unsuccessful efforts to cut down or control use
Spending significant time obtaining, using, or recovering from substances
Experiencing cravings or strong urges to use
Continuing use despite problems in relationships, work, or other responsibilities
Reducing important activities because of substance use
Using despite physical or psychological problems that substances worsen
Developing tolerance (needing more for the same effect) or withdrawal symptoms
Using substances to cope with difficult emotions or situations
Not everyone experiences all these signs, and you don't need to identify with many of them to benefit from professional support. Even mild or moderate concerns about your substance use warrant attention before more serious consequences develop.
Our Holistic Approach to Substance Use Treatment
At Holistic Counseling, we recognize that effective substance use treatment must address the whole person—not just the substance use itself. Our approach integrates evidence-based therapeutic methods with attention to your physical, emotional, relational, and spiritual wellbeing.
The Holistic Difference in Substance Use Recovery
Our substance use specialists combine clinical expertise with a person-centered philosophy that honors your autonomy and unique circumstances. We believe in collaborative care that respects your goals, whether that means moderation, complete abstinence, or harm reduction. Depending on your specific needs, your treatment may incorporate:
Motivational Interviewing: Exploring your personal motivations for change while respecting your autonomy
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Identifying and changing thought patterns and behaviors related to substance use
Trauma-Focused Approaches: Addressing underlying trauma that may drive substance use
Mindfulness-Based Relapse Prevention: Developing awareness of triggers and cultivating healthier responses
Internal Family Systems (IFS): Understanding the protective functions behind substance use and healing underlying emotional wounds
Somatic (Body-Based) Practices: Rebuilding connection with your body and learning to regulate emotions without substances
Lifestyle Modification: Supporting changes in sleep, nutrition, exercise, and stress management
Throughout treatment, we emphasize building concrete skills for managing cravings, regulating emotions, communicating effectively, and creating a lifestyle that supports your recovery goals. We also help you identify and address co-occurring concerns like anxiety, depression, or trauma that may influence your substance use patterns.
Our clients often report benefits that extend far beyond changes in their substance use, including improved relationships, enhanced self-awareness, better emotional regulation, and a deeper sense of meaning and purpose in their lives.
Common Questions About Substance Use Treatment
Do I need to be "hitting bottom" or completely abstinent to benefit from treatment?
Absolutely not. The idea that someone must "hit rock bottom" before getting help is an outdated and dangerous myth. Research consistently shows that earlier intervention leads to better outcomes, preventing years of suffering and accumulated consequences.
Whether you're noticing early warning signs, experiencing moderate difficulties, or facing severe problems related to your substance use, professional support can help. Many clients come to us during periods of active use, ambivalence about change, or after partial success with moderation or abstinence.
We meet you where you are, without judgment or predetermined expectations about what your recovery should look like. Your treatment plan will be tailored to your current situation, goals, and readiness for change.
What if I'm not sure I want to stop completely?
Many people enter treatment with ambivalence about changing their substance use—feeling both drawn to change and resistant to it. This ambivalence is a normal part of the change process, not an obstacle to it.
We practice harm reduction and motivational approaches that honor your autonomy while exploring the full spectrum of options, from safer use strategies to moderation management to abstinence. Your therapist will help you clarify your values and goals, examine the benefits and costs of your current use pattern, and support you in whatever changes align with your vision for your life.
For some substances and some individuals, abstinence may ultimately provide the clearest path to wellbeing. For others, moderate use may be sustainable and compatible with their goals. We'll help you assess your unique situation and make informed decisions about your relationship with substances.
Will I need detox or inpatient treatment?
While some individuals benefit from medical detoxification or residential treatment, many people with substance use concerns can be effectively treated in an outpatient setting. During your initial assessment, we'll evaluate factors like:
The type and amount of substances you use
Whether you experience significant withdrawal symptoms
Your physical health status
Your support system and living environment
Previous treatment experiences and outcomes
Co-occurring mental health conditions
If we determine that you would benefit from a higher level of care than we provide, we'll connect you with appropriate resources and can continue working with you after completion of more intensive treatment.
For many clients, outpatient therapy provides sufficient support, especially when combined with community resources, lifestyle modifications, and possibly medication-assisted treatment when appropriate.
How long does substance use treatment take?
Recovery is a highly individualized process that unfolds at different rates for different people. Research suggests that meaningful change typically requires at least 90 days of treatment engagement, with longer durations associated with better outcomes for more severe substance use disorders.
A typical course of treatment might include:
Weekly sessions for 3-6 months during the active phase of treatment
Biweekly or monthly sessions during a stabilization phase
Periodic check-ins for relapse prevention and continued growth
Throughout this process, we'll regularly assess your progress and adjust the frequency and focus of sessions based on your evolving needs. Many clients find that the skills and insights gained during treatment continue to develop and strengthen long after formal therapy has concluded.
Begin Your Journey Toward a Healthier Relationship With Substances
At Holistic Counseling, we believe that recovery from problematic substance use isn't just about stopping or reducing substances—it's about creating a life where substances become less necessary or appealing. Our compassionate, evidence-based approach helps you address not only the substance use itself but also the underlying factors that may drive it.
Contact us today to schedule a confidential consultation with one of our substance use specialists. We offer both in-person and secure online sessions to clients throughout Utah, Nevada, and Wyoming.
If you're experiencing a crisis or need immediate support, please contact:
SAMHSA's National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988
Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741