substance

Substance Use

If you choose to work with me on substance use issues the most important
thing you should know is that I use the Harm Reduction Model. The primary
difference between this model and what most people are familiar with (AA) is
that people may continue to use while they are working with me. This can be
very challenging for those who believe in abstinence however it is my belief
that many people are not ready to quit "cold turkey" and the harm reduction
model provides us with an alternative. Some may think that this model
condones use however it does not. A common saying in harm reduction is that
reduction is good with the ultimate goal being abstinence.

The next thing we discuss is why substances is a problem for you. If it wasn't I
don't think you would be coming to see me. From there we would discuss your
history of substance use and what role it plays in your life. Does it help you
socially? Do you use when you are bored? Do you just enjoy the feeling?
These are common reasons why people use however over time it tends to
create problems in other areas. We would then look at those problem and the
influence of substance on them. From there we would create a plan or action
that may or may not include reducing or eliminating your use. Other
interventions we may use may be changing the dynamics in the problem. for
example if you use because you are bored maybe joining an athletic club
would help the boredom, and if you are not bored you don't need to use? The
only way you will know is to give it a try.

Dual Diagnosis

Dual diagnosis treatment involves all the aspects discussed earlier. The only
difference is that Dual Diagnosis indicates that the substance using person
maybe experiencing another health concern like including depression or
anxiety. The influence in dual diagnosis refers to how the substance used
"helps" the symptoms of the other health concern. For example, people with
anxiety concerns may use alcohol because it makes them feel less anxious
however they now depend too much on the alcohol to relieve the anxiety and if
we could develop a healthier way to reduce the anxiety the alcohol would not
be needed or could be used in a more socially acceptable manner.