“Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall.”
— Confucius

Addiction

What Is Addiction?

Addiction is a pattern of continued use of a substance (like alcohol or drugs) or engagement in a behavior (like gambling) despite negative consequences.

It often includes:

• Cravings or strong urges

• Loss of control over use

• Needing more over time (tolerance)

• Withdrawal symptoms when stopping

• Continuing use despite harm to health, relationships, or responsibilities

At its core, addiction is often an attempt to cope—whether with stress, emotional pain, trauma, or disconnection.

How Is Addiction Treated?

Addiction is treatable, and recovery is possible. Effective treatment often involves a combination of approaches:

1. Therapy

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

  • Motivational Interviewing (MI)

  • Trauma-informed therapy

  • Relapse prevention planning

2. Support Groups & Community

  • 12-step programs (like AA/NA)

  • Non-12-step options (SMART Recovery, etc.)

  • Peer support and accountability

3. Medical Support

  • Detoxification (when needed and supervised)

  • Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for certain substances

  • Ongoing medical monitoring

4. Lifestyle & Coping Skills

  • Building healthy routines

  • Learning emotional regulation skills

  • Identifying triggers and high-risk situations

5. Addressing Underlying Issues

  • Treating co-occurring mental health conditions

  • Processing trauma or unresolved emotional pain

Recovery is not always a straight line, and setbacks can happen. With the right support, individuals can build meaningful, lasting change.

Learn more about Addiction

Below you will find several links from which you can learn more about addiction.  

There are many types of support available to persons who are struggling with addiction.  There are support groups, podcasts, websites, and blogs. Below are links to a few support resources.

Therapists Who Specialize In Addiction

  • Fawn Loonsfoot, LLMSW

    SHE/HER

    The decision to begin therapy is a difficult step to make. My goal is to make that step worthwhile and to meet the individual needs of each client I serve. I will provide a comfortable, safe, and judgment-free environment where we can explore life’s issues and work to restore a sense of balance in your everyday life.

    Learn More

  • Jennifer Helsel-Battle, LPC, CCTP

    SHE/HER

    Do you long to have a more fulfilling life? Is something getting in your way, keeping you stuck from truly living life and experiencing joy? Is pain from your past or worries about the future making it hard to enjoy the present? If any of these statements sound like you, I want you to know there is hope! Hello, I am Jen, a Licensed Professional Counselor in Michigan. I have worked with children, individuals, couples, and families for over 25 years.

    Learn More

  • Matt Bradley, LLMSW

    HE/HIM

    I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LLMSW) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapist with 3 years of professional experience helping individuals navigate life's most complex emotional struggles. My focus includes stress, anxiety, adjustment, depression, trauma, PTSD, combat stress and other veteran issues, college adjustment issues, child abuse, sexual abuse, emotional regulation, identity issues, relationship dynamics, and family challenges. Additionally, I have extensive experience working with combat veterans, survivors of child and sexual abuse, and those managing college adjustment issues or navigating difficult transitions like the death of a loved one.

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  • Caroline Velasquez, DSW, CAADC

    SHE/HER

    Do you ever feel stuck? Does it seem like no matter what you do, you can't move beyond your past? Do you find yourself worrying about your ability to succeed in life? If this sounds familiar, you're not alone--and I may be able to help.

    I work with individuals who are navigating trauma, anxiety, and other life challenges. I understand how overwhelming things can feel, and I believe that change is possible. My role is to support you in finding a path forward that fits you and your life.

    Learn More