Addiction is not a weakness- it’s a chronic disease that can leave many feeling trapped in a never-ending spiral. That’s why Clarity Family Therapy is here to help. We can pair you with a substance abuse counselor in Los Angeles that meets your needs.
Substances can hijack the brain, altering its normal function and reward processes. Understanding why quitting can be so challenging is crucial when considering working with a counselor or therapist.
Why Quitting is Hard
When we find things we enjoy, like coffee, a delicious meal, or spending quality time with loved ones, our brains release dopamine, a chemical that allows us to feel pleasure or a “reward” sensation. Everyone seeks rewards differently, but for some, substances can become their primary source of this sensation. This is where addiction begins.
The Three Stages of Addiction
Using
When a person consumes a substance, they may feel high or relaxed, using it to escape reality or ward off negative feelings.
Withdrawal
After stopping substance use, a person may experience negative physical or emotional symptoms, including:
- Shaking
- Excessive sweating
- Watery eyes or a runny nose
- Diarrhea and vomiting
- Achy muscles
Craving
A person desires the substance experience to be as pleasurable as the first use, which can become all-consuming.
Getting out of this cycle is difficult because addiction is a chronic disease. However, positive changes are possible with the help of a professional substance abuse counselor in Los Angeles.
The Importance of Therapy
Using substances is often stigmatized and treated as the problem when it is often a coping mechanism for underlying issues. It’s time to stop stigmatizing addiction and recognize it as a chronic disease. At Clarity Family Therapy Services, we view addiction through a medical model, understanding that it is not an inherent flaw but a treatable condition.
Research shows that those battling addiction often suffer from other mental health issues like anxiety or depression. When you work with a substance abuse counselor in Los Angeles at Clarity, you will experience a holistic approach. Our therapists and counselors are dedicated to teaching healthier coping skills while addressing the underlying issues driving unwanted behaviors.
Finding Clarity in Your Life With a Substance Abuse Counselor in Los Angeles
Managing mental health can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. At Clarity Family Therapy, we provide the tools you need to overcome challenges and live a healthier, happier life. Your substance abuse counselor in Los Angeles from Clarity Family Therapy will be equipped with evidence-based treatments to help you develop coping mechanisms, gain insights into your thoughts and emotions, and improve communication strategies.
If you’re in Los Angeles and seeking a substance abuse counselor, contact Clarity Family Therapy Services today. Find the clarity you need for a happier and healthier life with our specialized therapy services.