Susan Drysdale, PhD

Substance Abuse

Many of us misuse various substances to avoid feeling unpleasant emotions, or to experience a different physiological state, and eventually to avoid feelings of withdrawal. If we are lucky, we realize that what we are using is making us sicker than we already were. The substances we use are only temporary fixes. We continually need more and still we are suffering. Are you searching for a different way to live, a way without the substances previously abused? Let's work together to find solutions.

If you come into my office, first of all I will get to know you and hear your story. I want to know why and when the substance use started. I will want to know the feelings you are trying to avoid or those you are seeking. Is your addictive behavior reinforced because it helps with stress reduction? Or does it lead to withdrawal relief? Or does it lead to altered pleasurable physiological states?

Together we will find reasons to stop the misuse. You will learn the skills needed to stop using and avoid relapsing. I will teach you how to deal with cravings, how to avoid situations associated with substance use, how to deal with feelings that might lead to relapse, and how to make sure a slip does not become a major relapse.

It is difficult to find replacements for the substance we have craved. We need to find positive incentives to motivate us to change, to encourage and reward progress. It is hard to recover, but one day at a time it can be done. And you will discover a world without drugs is awesome. You are able to see and think with a new clarity and a brighter vision. It will feel like a fog has lifted.