Substance Related Concerns 

 Substance Use refers to the consumption of alcohol, prescription medications, or illicit drugs. It ranges from occasional use to regular use without necessarily leading to addiction.

Substance Abuse is a pattern of using substances in a way that causes harm to the user or others. This can include using drugs or alcohol excessively, in risky situations, or despite negative consequences in personal, social, or professional life. Chronic substance abuse can lead to addiction (substance use disorder or SUD), where a person becomes dependent and struggles to control their use.

Motivational Interviewing (MI) is a client-centered, evidence-based counseling approach designed to enhance an individual’s motivation to change. It is especially effective for treating substance use disorders by:

1. Building Motivation for Change – MI helps individuals explore their own reasons for change rather than being forced or pressured.

2. Addressing Ambivalence – Many people struggling with substance use feel conflicted about quitting. MI helps them resolve this uncertainty.

3. Empowering Personal Choice – Instead of imposing strict rules, MI encourages individuals to set their own goals for reducing or stopping substance use.

4. Strengthening Commitment – By guiding individuals through a structured conversation, MI helps them move from thinking about change to actively committing to it.

5. Reducing Resistance – Unlike confrontational approaches, MI respects the person’s autonomy and uses open-ended questions, affirmations, and reflections to encourage progress.

We provide outpatient counseling for assistance with substance use. If you are in need of inpatient treatment we can discuss options outside of Fearless Living Counseling, LLC.