Loving someone with a substance use problem can involve a rollercoaster of emotions, multiple attempts to help that person reduce or quit substances, and a diminished quality of life. As addiction affects approximately 20 million people per year in the United States, most people have had or know someone who has a substance use disorder. 

I help family members and friends learn new strategies and skills to shift the relationship dynamic with the substance-using loved one, to increase the chances that their loved one will enter substance use treatment, as well as improve quality of life for family members. My treatment approach is to utilize a scientifically-backed treatment referred to as “CRAFT” (Community Reinforcement and Family Training). The CRAFT approach is a non-confrontational approach based on principles of positive reinforcement, and is designed for those family members and friends who would like to improve their relationship with a loved one who is abusing substances, and want to encourage them to reduce or end their substance abuse. CRAFT has 3 main goals: 1) to improve the quality of life and functioning of the concerned family/friend 2) to reduce their loved ones’ substance use and 3) to engage the loved one in treatment and support. For more information, please read What is CRAFT? 

Research has shown that 70% of people who participate in CRAFT are able to engage their loved one in treatment, as well as improve their own well-being/functioning. 

Find me here on the CRAFT Provider Directory!