Using of Alcohol/Substances for Coping
What this specialty means
Using of Alcohol/Substances for Coping refers to supportive services for people who rely on alcohol, cannabis, prescription medications, or other substances to manage stress, numb difficult feelings, boost confidence, or get through the day. This specialty focuses on understanding what the behavior is doing for you, its effects on health and relationships, and options for change at a respectful pace. Depending on needs, support may involve psychotherapy for underlying emotions, coaching for skills and accountability, and coordination with medical care when safety, withdrawal, or other health concerns could be present.
Why people seek support
People often seek support when substance use starts crowding out the activities and connections that matter, when “just to take the edge off” becomes most days, or when hangovers, comedowns, or cravings interfere with sleep, mood, or work. Others reach out after scares, conflicts, or legal or financial strain, or because cutting back alone hasn’t stuck. Some want safer-use strategies for social settings; others want a plan for life changes, grief, trauma reminders, caregiving stress, or burnout. Loved ones may also seek guidance on boundaries and support.
Typical goals
Collaborative goals may include clarifying what you want your relationship with substances to look like, identifying triggers and high-risk situations, and building practical alternatives for stress relief, sleep, and emotional regulation. You and a qualified professional might set gradual change targets, practice craving-management strategies, and develop safer-use or reduction plans, relapse-prevention and repair steps, and crisis and safety plans. When appropriate, goals can include coordinating with medical providers for detox or health monitoring, strengthening social supports, and restoring routines, roles, and personal values that matter to you.
Trifecta Health educational information. For educational purposes only—not a diagnosis or a substitute for professional medical advice.
Find a specialty provider
Catherine Geyer
LAPC
Hello! I'm Catherine, and I'm so glad you are here...
Stephanie Sheets
LPC
Hello! Thank you for considering me for your therapy needs...
Dusty Shandy
LPC
I am a licensed professional counselor in Georgia with 10+ years of experience working with a variety of clients. I have additional experience in school-based/family counseling, case management for foster children, parental education, resource allocation for vocational rehabilitation, and education and career counseling...
Lindsey Martin
LCSW, Clinical Director
Thank you for considering me as you take the next step in your counseling journey. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing therapy to clients in Georgia and Alabama, as well as telehealth services in Florida...
Jon Hester
LCSW, CCTP-II and Certified Maxwell Leadership Coach
Jon Hester, LCSW, is a licensed clinical social worker serving adults in Georgia and Florida. With more than 25 years of clinical and executive leadership experience, Jon helps clients navigate anxiety, OCD, trauma, PTSD, stress, major life transitions, and the unique pressures that can come with work, relationships, and leadership responsibilities...