Category: Therapy

Finding Joy Again: How Therapy Helps You Rebuild Life After Addiction

Recovery from addiction isn’t just about stopping the use of drugs or alcohol. It’s about rebuilding your life, rediscovering joy, and learning how to live in a way that feels fulfilling and true to who you are.

As a licensed mental health counselor (LMHC), I support clients every day who are in different stages of recovery. Many come to therapy wondering what’s next. They’ve gotten sober—but they feel lost.

If you’ve ever thought:

  • “I don’t know who I am without using.”
  • “Nothing feels fun anymore.”
  • “How do I build a happy life in sobriety?”

… you’re not alone. And this post is for you.

🎯 Why Finding Joy Is Key to Long-Term Recovery

Staying sober isn’t just about avoiding relapse—it’s about building a life you don’t want to escape from. That means reconnecting with purpose, passion, and things that bring you joy.

In therapy for addiction recovery, we work together to:

  • Explore who you are without substances
  • Identify what truly brings you happiness
  • Set realistic goals for your mental health and recovery
  • Learn how to manage emotions without turning to drugs or alcohol

📈 Research shows that people in recovery who feel fulfilled and connected are less likely to relapse. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), finding meaning and purpose in recovery is one of the strongest predictors of long-term sobriety.

🧠 How Therapy Supports You in Rediscovering Joy

As an LMHC specializing in substance use and mental health, I see firsthand how therapy can help clients rebuild their lives in recovery.

Here are a few ways therapy works:

1. Helping You Explore Your Passions and Interests

Many people in recovery say:
“I don’t even know what I like anymore.”

That’s okay. Substance use often consumes your time, energy, and identity. In therapy, we gently begin to explore:

  • What brought you joy before using?
  • What hobbies, interests, or dreams were pushed aside?
  • What are you curious about now?

By reconnecting with your natural sources of joy, you begin to find excitement in life again—without needing substances to feel good.

2. Setting Meaningful Goals in Recovery

Setting goals gives structure and purpose to your recovery journey. Therapy helps you:

  • Create short-term and long-term goals that align with your values
  • Celebrate small wins and build momentum
  • Reframe setbacks as learning opportunities

Goals might include:

  • Rebuilding relationships
  • Exploring a new hobby
  • Going back to school or finding meaningful work
  • Attending a sober event or support group

3. Creating a Fulfilling Life Without Substances

This is where deeper therapy work comes in. We talk about:

  • Your core values (freedom, honesty, creativity, etc.)
  • The kind of relationships you want
  • What it means to feel proud of your life again

In therapy, we build not just coping skills—but a roadmap for a life that feels fulfilling, empowered, and aligned with who you truly are.

💬 A Real-Life Story: Reclaiming Joy in Sobriety

Meet Carlos (name changed), a 38-year-old client who came to therapy six months into his sobriety journey. He was no longer drinking—but life felt empty.

In therapy, we explored his past. As a teen, he had loved photography. He stopped when he began using. So, we made a small goal: borrow a camera and take photos on the weekends.

Carlos started sharing his photos in recovery meetings. Eventually, he entered a local art show. For the first time in years, he felt proud of something that was his.

👉 “I didn’t realize how much joy I could feel sober,” he told me.

🛠️ Simple Tools to Reconnect With Joy in Recovery

Here are a few practical ways therapy helps you reconnect with yourself:

📓 Joy Journal

Write down one thing each day that made you smile, laugh, or feel connected. It can be small—like a good song or a peaceful walk.

🧘‍♂️ Mindfulness or Movement

Gentle practices like yoga, walking, or meditation help you reconnect with your body and feelings—without numbing.

🗣️ Talk It Out

Therapy gives you a space to explore joy and fear at the same time. You’re allowed to say: “This is hard—and I still want more from life.”

🧡 You Deserve Joy—Not Just Sobriety

Therapy isn’t just for healing pain—it’s also for cultivating joy, love, creativity, and confidence.

You deserve to laugh again. To dream. To feel proud of who you’re becoming.

If you’ve been sober for a while but still feel stuck, or you’re newly in recovery and unsure what comes next—therapy can help.

Because recovery isn’t about going back to who you were.
It’s about becoming who you’re meant to be.

💬 Let’s Talk: What Brings You Joy?

If you’re in recovery, what’s something small that brings you joy?
🎨 A hobby? 🧑‍🍳 A recipe? 📚 A book? 🎶 A song?

👇 Share in the comments below and inspire someone else who’s rebuilding, just like you.

And if you’re looking for a therapist who understands addiction and healing, reach out. You don’t have to do this alone.

How Therapy Really Works: What to Expect, How It Helps, and Why You Deserve It

Let’s talk about therapy again—because if the last post helped you see that therapy isn’t just for people in crisis, this one will help you take the next step: understanding how it actually works and how it can transform your life, even when things don’t feel “bad enough.”

Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, grief, relationship stress, or substance use, therapy isn’t about fixing what’s broken. It’s about understanding your story, your patterns, and your power to create change.

Therapy Is a Relationship, Not a Fix

At its core, therapy is a relationship between you and your therapist—a space where you’re safe to say things you’ve never said out loud, ask questions you’re afraid to ask, and hear yourself think without being judged.

You’re not being lectured or given advice. You’re being heard, guided, and sometimes challenged gently to grow.

✅ Think of your therapist like a hiking guide—not climbing the mountain for you, but walking beside you, helping you read the map and avoid the cliffs.

What Actually Happens in a Session?

Each therapist has a style, but here’s what a typical session might include:

  • Check-in: How have you been feeling since the last session? Any wins or hard moments?
  • Processing: You’ll explore thoughts, emotions, or memories in a safe space. This may involve talking through a tough conversation or sitting with a difficult feeling.
  • Insight-building: Your therapist may help you notice patterns in your thoughts or behaviors that you didn’t realize were there.
  • Skill-building: You might learn tools to manage anxiety, improve communication, or handle cravings.
  • Action steps: You’ll often leave with something to reflect on or try during the week.

🧠 Therapy isn’t just venting—it’s intentional, guided, and builds momentum over time.

Let’s Talk About CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy)

One of the most commonly used approaches is CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy)—and no, it’s not just a buzzword.

CBT helps you identify how your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are connected.

Here’s a super simple example:

  • Thought: “I always mess up, so why bother trying?”
  • Feeling: Hopeless, anxious
  • Behavior: You avoid applying for a job or talking to someone new

CBT helps you challenge the thought and replace it with something more helpful:

  • New thought: “I’ve made mistakes, but I’ve also learned a lot. I can try again.”
  • Feeling: Hopeful, more confident
  • Behavior: You take a step forward

💡 CBT gives you tools to rewire your brain, and research shows it’s incredibly effective for anxiety, depression, trauma, and substance use disorders.

What If I Don’t Know Where to Start?

You don’t need to have it all figured out.

Some clients walk into therapy saying, “I don’t know what I need, but I know I need something.” That’s a perfectly fine place to start. In fact, it’s common.

Your therapist might begin by asking:

  • What brought you here today?
  • What’s one area of life you wish felt better?
  • What do you want to understand about yourself?

You’ll set goals together, and those goals can evolve as you grow.

Therapy and Substance Use: Getting to the Root

If you’re in recovery or struggling with substance use, therapy helps you explore the why behind the cravings or behavior.

Instead of focusing just on stopping the behavior, therapy asks:

  • What are you trying to cope with?
  • What does the substance do for you?
  • What are healthier ways to meet those needs?

You may not stop overnight—but therapy offers compassionate accountability. It’s about helping you build a life you don’t want to escape from.

An Example from the Couch

Let’s say Daniel, a 34-year-old father of two, started therapy because he “just felt off.” He said he was tired all the time, didn’t have patience for his kids, and had started drinking more at night to unwind.

In therapy, Daniel realized he had been holding in grief from losing his dad two years ago. He also noticed that when he felt inadequate as a parent, he reached for alcohol.

Through CBT, Daniel learned to recognize his self-critical thoughts and replace them with more compassionate ones. He also started journaling, attending a support group, and setting boundaries around his drinking. Over time, his relationship with his kids improved—and so did his self-respect.

“Therapy didn’t change everything overnight,” he said, “but it gave me my power back.”

What If I’ve Had a Bad Experience in Therapy?

That’s valid. Not every therapist is the right fit, and not every approach works for every person.

But one bad experience doesn’t mean therapy can’t work for you. It might just mean:

  • You need a therapist with a different style
  • You weren’t ready at the time
  • The goals weren’t clearly defined

🌱 Therapy is a process, and finding the right therapist can make all the difference. (Think of it like dating—you may need to try a few before finding “your person.”)

Therapy Is a Tool, Not a Label

Therapy doesn’t mean you’re broken. It means you’re brave enough to want more—for yourself, your relationships, and your future.

📊 According to the American Psychological Association:

  • 75% of people who enter therapy show some benefit
  • People who engage consistently experience greater emotional resilience and improved relationships

So if you’re wondering if therapy is worth it—the data, and millions of stories, say yes.

Ready to Take the First Step?

You don’t need a diagnosis. You don’t need to be in crisis. You don’t need to have the right words.

You just need a willingness to show up for yourself.

Therapy is your time, your story, and your journey. And you don’t have to do it alone.

💬 Tell Me: What’s Stopped You from Trying Therapy in the Past?

Leave a comment below and let’s normalize the conversation together.

🧠💛 You’re not broken. You’re growing. And therapy can help.

How Therapy Works (And Why It’s Not Just for “Crazy” People)

Let’s get something out of the way right now:

Going to therapy doesn’t mean you’re broken.
It means you’re human.

In fact, seeing a therapist is a lot like going to the gym—but for your brain. You don’t have to be falling apart to benefit. You just have to be open to learning more about yourself.

Whether you’ve been thinking about therapy for a while or you’ve just been handed a referral and are feeling unsure, this blog will walk you through what therapy actually looks like, how it helps, and why it’s one of the most powerful tools for personal growth, healing, and change.

What Is Therapy, Really?

At its core, therapy (also called counseling or talk therapy) is a safe, confidential space where you can explore what’s going on in your life—with someone trained to listen, reflect, and guide you toward clarity.

You don’t have to have a diagnosis. You don’t need to know exactly what to say. You just need to show up.

People go to therapy for all sorts of reasons:

  • Anxiety or panic attacks
  • Depression, sadness, or numbness
  • Relationship struggles
  • Trauma or grief
  • Addiction or recovery
  • Feeling stuck, lost, or overwhelmed
  • Just wanting to feel better

According to the American Psychological Association, about 1 in 3 Americans have seen a therapist at some point—and over 75% of people who try therapy say they benefit from it.

🧠 Let’s Talk CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy)

One of the most widely used (and research-supported) types of therapy is called Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, or CBT.

Sounds fancy? Don’t worry—it’s actually simple.

CBT is based on this idea:

Your thoughts affect your feelings, and your feelings affect your actions.

So, if you’re feeling anxious, hopeless, or stuck, CBT helps you:

  • Identify the unhelpful thoughts that are fueling those feelings
  • Challenge or reframe those thoughts
  • Practice new behaviors to create different outcomes

Example:
You think: “I always mess everything up.”
You feel: Anxious, defeated
You act: Avoid important tasks or relationships
CBT helps you break that cycle by examining the evidence for and against that thought and replacing it with something more realistic—like, “Sometimes I struggle, but I’ve also done a lot right.”

It’s not toxic positivity. It’s mental flexibility.

🛋️ What Happens in a Therapy Session? (Spoiler: No Couch Required)

Here’s a peek into what a first session might be like with someone like me—a licensed mental health counselor.

Meet “Alex”: A Fictional First-Time Client

Alex is a 34-year-old parent feeling overwhelmed. They’re not sleeping well, snapping at their kids, and questioning everything. They finally booked a therapy session but walked in nervously.

We start by just talking. I ask a few simple questions:

  • “What brought you in today?”
  • “What would you like to get out of therapy?”
  • “What’s been weighing on you lately?”

Alex shares they’ve been dealing with racing thoughts and guilt and using wine at night to “shut down.” As they talk, I listen—without judgment. I reflect what I hear. I ask follow-ups.

Then we talk goals: “If therapy helped, what would change in your day-to-day life?”

We might start tracking thought patterns (CBT), learning calming tools for anxiety, or processing past experiences that are still affecting the present.

No pressure. No labels. Just a space to breathe, explore, and grow.

🧩 Interactive Exercise: Try This Thought Check

Here’s a quick CBT tool you can do right now.

Step 1: Think of a recent moment you felt upset, anxious, or discouraged.
Step 2: Write down what you were thinking in that moment.
Step 3: Ask yourself:

  • Is that thought 100% true?
  • What evidence supports it? What evidence goes against it?
  • What would I tell a friend who had this thought?

Step 4: Reframe it into something more balanced.
For example:
🧠 “I’m a terrible parent.” → 🧠 “I’m a parent who’s overwhelmed and doing my best.”

This little shift can help calm your nervous system, ease emotional spirals, and put you back in control.

💡 The Benefits of Therapy (Backed by Science)

Here’s what the research says about therapy:

  • People in therapy experience fewer symptoms of depression, anxiety, and trauma
  • It leads to better relationships and healthier communication
  • It helps people with addiction stay in recovery longer
  • Long-term therapy leads to lasting brain changes—better stress regulation, improved memory, and stronger emotional resilience
  • People who engage in therapy report higher self-awareness and life satisfaction

🎯 Therapy = Growth, Not Weakness

Let’s bust a myth:
Going to therapy doesn’t mean something is “wrong” with you.
It means you’re willing to learn more about yourself, your past, your habits—and your potential.

It’s like saying, “I want to know myself better so I can live better.”
That’s not weakness. That’s courage.

👏 Encouragement for the Nervous Newcomer

If you’re thinking about therapy but feel nervous, here’s what I want you to know:

  • You don’t have to tell everything all at once.
  • You can go at your own pace.
  • You’re allowed to ask questions or even switch therapists if it doesn’t feel like a good fit.
  • It’s not about judgment—it’s about discovery.

Your therapist’s job is not to fix you. It’s to walk beside you while you figure out what you want to heal, change, or understand.

💬 Let’s Hear From You: What Do You Think About Therapy?

Have you tried therapy before? Are you thinking about it now?

👉 What’s held you back—or helped you take the first step?
👉 What kind of support would you want from a therapist?

Drop a comment below and share your story or questions. Whether you’re curious, skeptical, or ready to begin—we’re here for honest conversations, not judgment.

Let’s Talk Therapy: A Therapist’s Guide to Navigating Substance Use and Mental Health

Discover when to seek therapy for substance use and mental health concerns. But wait, therapy isn’t just serious talk—it’s also about creative expression, mindfulness, and goal setting! Dive into our blog to explore fun and effective evidence-based techniques that’ll make therapy a joyous adventure.

Today, we’re diving into the world of therapy, substance use, and mental health. As a mental health therapist, I’ve had the privilege of guiding individuals through some of life’s toughest challenges, and one recurring theme I encounter is the intersection of substance use and mental health.

Let’s bust some myths and explore when it’s time to seek therapy for both substance use and mental health concerns. But first, grab your favorite beverage and let’s embark on this enlightening journey together!

Understanding Substance Use and Mental Health: The Connection

Did you know that substance use and mental health often go hand in hand? Yep, it’s true! Many individuals turn to substances as a way to cope with underlying mental health issues like anxiety, depression, or trauma. However, what starts as a temporary escape can quickly spiral into a full-blown struggle.

When to Seek Therapy: Signs and Signals

So, when is it time to hit up your friendly neighborhood therapist? Here are a few signs that therapy might be beneficial:

  1. You’re Using Substances as a Crutch: If you find yourself relying on substances to get through the day or cope with emotions, it’s time to explore healthier coping strategies.
  2. Your Mental Health is Suffering: Are you experiencing persistent feelings of sadness, anxiety, or hopelessness? Therapy can help you untangle the roots of these emotions and develop strategies to manage them.
  3. Your Relationships are Strained: Substance use and mental health issues can wreak havoc on your relationships. If your friendships, family ties, or romantic partnerships are suffering, therapy can provide a safe space to work through these challenges.
  4. You’re Ready for Change: The first step toward healing is often the hardest, but if you’re ready to make positive changes in your life, therapy can provide the support and guidance you need.

Making Therapy Fun and Effective

Okay, I know what you’re thinking: therapy sounds daunting and serious. But fear not, my friends! Therapy can actually be a fun and rewarding experience. From creative exercises to insightful discussions, therapy offers a myriad of tools to help you navigate life’s ups and downs.

As therapists, we understand that the journey toward mental wellness doesn’t have to be all serious conversations and solemn reflections. In fact, integrating evidence-based techniques (EBTs) into therapy sessions can add an exciting dimension to the process, making it both engaging and fulfilling. EBTs include:

1. Creative Expression: Ever tried your hand at art therapy or journaling? These creative outlets can be incredibly therapeutic. Whether you’re painting your emotions on canvas or jotting down your thoughts in a journal, creative expression can help you process your feelings and gain valuable insights.

2. Mindfulness and Meditation: Mindfulness practices are all the rage these days, and for good reason! Incorporating mindfulness and meditation into your therapy sessions can help you cultivate present-moment awareness and develop coping skills to manage stress and cravings.

3. Role-Playing: Who says therapy has to be all talk and no action? Role-playing exercises can help you practice new behaviors and communication skills in a safe, supportive environment. Plus, it’s a fun way to step into someone else’s shoes and gain a fresh perspective on your challenges.

4. Breathwork: Ah, the power of the breath! Breathwork techniques like diaphragmatic breathing or box breathing can help you regulate your emotions and calm your nervous system. Plus, they’re easy to learn and can be practiced anywhere, anytime – talk about a handy tool to have in your mental wellness toolkit!

5. Cognitive-Behavioral Strategies: Ah, good old CBT! Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a tried-and-true approach to therapy that focuses on identifying and challenging unhelpful thoughts and behaviors. By learning to reframe negative thinking patterns and adopt healthier behaviors, you can create positive change in your life.

6. Goal Setting and Tracking: Who doesn’t love a good goal-setting session? Setting achievable goals and tracking your progress can help you stay motivated and focused on your journey toward mental wellness. Plus, it’s a great way to celebrate your victories – big or small!

The Call to Action: Let’s Start Talking

Alright, folks, here’s the deal: seeking therapy is nothing to be ashamed of. In fact, it’s a courageous step toward prioritizing your mental health and well-being. So, if you or someone you know is struggling with substance use or mental health issues, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Together, we can break the stigma surrounding therapy and create a world where mental wellness is celebrated and prioritized.

Now it’s your turn! Share your thoughts in the comments below. Have you ever sought therapy for substance use or mental health concerns? What was your experience like? Let’s keep the conversation going and support one another on our journey to mental wellness!

Remember, you’re not alone. Let’s take the first step toward healing together. 🌟 #TherapyTalks #MentalWellness #BreakTheStigma