Specialty · Substance Use Disorder

You are more than your struggle.

Compassionate Support For Substance Use Disorder

Recovery isn’t a straight line — and it doesn’t have to be done alone. Our licensed therapists provide evidence-based, judgment-free counseling for individuals navigating substance use and co-occurring mental health challenges.

🛡️  HIPAA-compliant & confidential

✅  Licensed NJ therapists

💬  Telehealth available statewide

🏥  Most major insurance accepted

🤝  Free 15-min consultation

Understanding SUD

Substance use disorder is a health condition, not a character flaw

"Asking for help isn't weakness — it's the most courageous thing you can do."

Substance use disorder (SUD) affects the brain’s reward, motivation, and memory systems. It’s recognized by every major medical organization as a chronic health condition — one that responds well to the right treatment and support.

Shame and stigma are often the biggest barriers to getting help. At Peace of Mind Counseling, we don’t use labels or judgment. We use evidence, compassion, and a genuine commitment to your wellbeing.

1 in 7

Americans will develop a substance use disorder. It’s one of the most common health conditions in the country — yet fewer than 10% receive treatment.

50%

Of people with SUD also have a co-occurring mental health condition. Anxiety, depression, and trauma frequently co-occur with substance use.

Better outcomes with professional support. People who engage in therapy alongside recovery efforts are significantly more likely to maintain long-term sobriety.

Know the signs

Signs you or a loved one may benefit from support

You don’t need to hit rock bottom to deserve help. If any of these resonate, reaching out is a brave and healthy step.

Using more than intended

Consistently using larger amounts or for longer periods than planned, despite intentions to cut back.

Difficulty stopping

Strong urges or cravings, or a persistent inability to reduce or stop use despite wanting to.

Withdrawal from life

Pulling away from relationships, hobbies, or responsibilities that used to matter to you.

Using to cope

Relying on substances to manage stress, anxiety, depression, sleep, or emotional pain.

Continuing despite consequences

Use is affecting work, relationships, finances, or health — but stopping feels impossible or terrifying.

Impact on loved ones

Family members or friends have expressed concern, or you’re watching someone you love struggle with use.

You don’t need to identify with all of these — or any specific label — to reach out. Our therapists work with people at every stage of their relationship with substances, including those who are simply questioning their patterns.

Our approach

Evidence-based care

Methods that actually work

We don’t use a one-size-fits-all playbook. Our therapists draw on a range of proven approaches, tailored to where you are in your journey.

We treat the whole person — not just the substance use — which means addressing underlying mental health, trauma, and the life factors that contribute to the pattern.

MI

Motivational Interviewing

Explores your own reasons and readiness for change — without pressure or judgment. Highly effective for ambivalence about stopping or reducing use.

The process

What to expect when you reach out

Starting is often the hardest part. Here’s exactly what happens — step by step — so there are no surprises.

01

Free consultation

A 15-minute call with no pressure and no commitment. We listen, answer your questions, and find the right therapist match for you.

02

Your first session

A safe, conversational intake. Your therapist gets to know you — your history, your goals, and what you’re hoping therapy can do for you.

03

Your personalized plan

Together you’ll build a treatment plan that fits your life and goals — whether that’s harm reduction, sobriety, or simply understanding your patterns better.

04

Ongoing support

Regular sessions — in person or via telehealth — with a therapist who knows you, tracks your progress, and adjusts as your needs evolve.

FAQs

Good questions

Things people want to know

Have a question that isn’t here? We’re happy to talk before you book anything.

No. You don’t need to be sober — or even certain you want to stop — to start working with us. We use a harm reduction approach and meet you wherever you are. Many clients begin therapy while still using and find that the therapeutic relationship itself becomes a catalyst for change.

Yes. Everything you share is protected under HIPAA and NJ state law. Substance use records have additional protections under 42 CFR Part 2. The only exceptions are situations involving imminent risk of harm to yourself or others — your therapist will explain these clearly in your first session.

We are a counseling practice, not a prescribing provider, so we don’t prescribe medications like Suboxone or Vivitrol. However, we work collaboratively with prescribing providers and can coordinate care if MAT is part of your treatment plan.

Yes — most major insurance plans cover substance use counseling under mental health benefits. The Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act requires insurers to cover SUD treatment at parity with physical health benefits. We accept Aetna, Cigna, BCBS, United Healthcare, and others.

Absolutely. We work with family members of people with SUD — both to support them in their own wellbeing and to help them navigate the complex dynamics that substance use creates in families. You don’t have to wait for your loved one to be ready for help before seeking support yourself.

Service areas

We're available across New Jersey

In-person in Freehold. Telehealth available to all NJ residents at the same insurance rate as in-person care.

You've already taken a step just by being here.

Ready to talk to someone who gets it?

No judgment. No pressure. Just a real conversation with a therapist who understands substance use disorder and is ready to support you — wherever you are in your journey.