Addiction rarely affects only one person. It is often tied to stress, pain or trauma, and it changes the lives of everyone around it.
I am a Master's Certified Addiction Professional (MCAP) as well as a licensed mental health counselor and marriage and family therapist. That means I can work with the substance use itself and with the anxiety, depression, grief and family problems that so often come with it.
Counseling can help if you
- Are worried about your drinking or drug use and want to understand it
- Want to cut down or stop, and need a plan and support
- Are in recovery and want help staying there, especially through stress or after a slip
- Have other habits that feel out of control
- Love someone who drinks or uses, and feel worn out, angry or afraid
What we do
We start with an honest, non-judgmental look at what is happening: how much, how often, what it does for you and what it costs you. From there we set goals together. For some people the goal is to stop completely; for others it is to cut down first. Then we build the skills and support to get there:
- Understanding your triggers and cravings, and what to do when they come
- Coping with the feelings that drinking or using used to cover
- Repairing trust and relationships
- Planning for setbacks, so a slip doesn't become a fall
- Connecting with recovery support outside therapy, if you want it
For families
Living with someone's addiction is exhausting. Family members often swing between hope, anger and fear, and lose sight of their own needs. Counseling can help you understand addiction, set healthy boundaries, stop carrying what isn't yours to carry, and support your loved one without losing yourself. Family sessions can bring everyone together when the time is right.
When more help is needed
If you drink heavily every day, or take substances such as opioids or sedatives like benzodiazepines, stopping suddenly can be dangerous. Please talk to a doctor before you stop. If you need detox or a residential program, I can help you think through the options and continue working with you afterward.
For free, confidential help finding treatment, any time: SAMHSA's National Helpline, 1-800-662-4357.
About the MCAP credential
The Master's Certified Addiction Professional (MCAP) is an advanced credential from the Florida Certification Board for professionals who treat substance use. It covers clinical evaluation, treatment planning, counseling, case management and referral, client and family education, documentation, clinical supervision and professional responsibility. In Florida, MCAP holders are qualified professionals under Chapter 397 of the Florida Statutes.