Substance Use Therapy
Chicago Substance Use Therapist: Your Path to Healing with Serengeti Wellness
Taking the first step toward recovery can feel daunting, but it is also one of the most courageous acts you can take. At Serengeti Wellness, we understand that substance use challenges are complex and deeply personal. We are here to walk with you on your path to healing, offering professional, culturally conscious, and compassionate care every step of the way.
Our Chicago-based substance use therapists provide more than treatment; we create a safe and supportive space where you are seen, heard, and valued as a whole person—not defined by the challenges you face. Whether you are beginning your recovery journey, navigating a relapse, or supporting a loved one through substance use, we meet you where you are with empathy, care, and expert guidance.
Why Choose a Chicago-Based Substance Use Therapist?
Healing happens best when it is rooted in understanding—of both the person and their environment. Working with a local therapist in Chicago ensures that your care is tailored to your unique experience, shaped by the context of your community and the resources around you. Whether you prefer in-person or virtual therapy, there are distinct benefits to working with a Chicago substance use therapist:
Therapists based in Chicago understand the distinct challenges that come with a major metropolitan. From work-related stress and housing instability to community dynamics and public health resources, they bring a nuanced understanding of the city’s rhythms that can inform your treatment plan in meaningful ways.
Recovery does not happen in isolation. Our therapists help you engage with local recovery networks, support groups, and community programs so you can build a safety net of support close to home. We’ll help you connect with organizations in Chicago that provide additional care, such as peer-led recovery meetings or educational resources for families.
Choosing a local therapist makes it easier to integrate therapy into your everyday routine. We offer in-person sessions at our welcoming downtown office, where you can receive care face-to-face in a calming environment. For those who prefer flexibility, we also provide virtual therapy options—ensuring that your progress remains consistent, no matter your schedule or location.
Chicago is more than just a city; it’s a community—and at Serengeti Wellness, we believe in using every available resource to support your healing journey. Whether you attend sessions from our office on Michigan Avenue or join us online from the comfort of your home, our goal is to make high-quality, culturally attuned outpatient addiction therapy services in chicago accessible to you.
Therapy is one of the best forms of self-care. It is time to choose yourself.
Not sure where to get started? Reach out to us and we’ll discuss your needs and figure out a plan that works your you.
What Are the Benefits of Seeing a Therapist for Substance Use?
Substance use therapy offers so much more than just learning how to stop using—it’s about healing the mind, body, and spirit in a way that supports lasting change. Our therapy for addiction specialists recognize that every individual’s journey is unique, which is why our therapy focuses on addressing not just the behaviors, but the emotional and psychological roots of addiction. Therapy provides the tools, strategies, and empathetic support needed to guide you through challenges, empowering you to rediscover your strength.
Here’s how therapy with a compassionate, culturally conscious therapist can make a transformative difference:
Personalized Treatment Plans for Sustainable Change
Every client is different, and so are their needs. A “one-size-fits-all” approach simply won’t work for substance use recovery. That’s why our therapists create customized recovery plans that align with your personal history, challenges, and goals. Whether you’re just starting out or working through a setback, we’ll work side by side to develop strategies that honor your individual journey and provide practical, long-term tools for lasting progress. This may involve evidence-based practices like CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) or mindfulness techniques, all tailored to meet you where you are.
Emotional Support to Uncover the ‘Why’ Behind Substance Use
Substance use is often a way people cope with unresolved emotions, trauma, or stress. Therapy for addiction gives you the opportunity to safely explore these underlying issues in a supportive environment. Our therapists for sobriety know that healing is not just about eliminating behaviors—it’s about creating emotional safety to process grief, fear, or shame. This kind of support helps you develop healthier ways to manage emotions, paving the way for personal growth and improved well-being.
Dual Diagnosis Care: Addressing Mental Health and Addiction Together
For many individuals, substance use is closely linked with mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, or PTSD. This overlap can make recovery more complicated, which is why we offer dual diagnosis care. Through therapy for addiction our therapists will work with you to address both the addiction and the mental health concerns that may drive or worsen substance use. By taking an integrated approach, we can ensure that no part of your experience is overlooked. The result is a more comprehensive healing process that supports your whole self—mentally, emotionally, and physically.
Relapse Prevention Strategies for Long-Term Success
Recovery isn’t always a straight line, and moments of struggle are a natural part of the process. Our substance use therapists will help you identify triggers—the situations, emotions, or stressors that may prompt substance use—and develop healthy coping strategies to navigate them. These strategies are not about perfection; they’re about building resilience. Should a relapse occur, it becomes an opportunity to learn, reflect, and refine your tools. Our approach ensures you’re prepared for the ups and downs of recovery with the confidence that healing is always possible.
Building Accountability and Trust Through Meaningful Connection
The path to recovery is hard to walk alone. Therapy for addiction offers not just professional support but also human connection—someone to hold space for your struggles and victories alike. At Serengeti Wellness, we build therapeutic relationships based on trust and respect. Our therapists offer both accountability and compassion, encouraging you to stay on track while celebrating every step forward. We believe in walking with you, not just guiding you, fostering a partnership where you feel seen, understood, and supported throughout your journey.
Empowerment for the Future You Deserve
Ultimately, the goal of therapy is to help you reclaim control over your life. Recovery means more than stopping substance use—it’s about discovering new ways to thrive, reconnecting with yourself, and building a future aligned with your values and goals. Through personalized care, emotional support, and relapse prevention, Serengeti Wellness offers you the tools and encouragement to move forward with confidence and hope. We know the road isn’t always easy, but you don’t have to walk it alone—we’ll be with you every step of the way.
By choosing therapy with our Chicago substance use therapist, you’re choosing more than treatment—you’re choosing healing, connection, and growth. And most importantly, you’re choosing yourself.
Our Approach to Substance Use Therapy
We believe that recovery is not one-size-fits-all. Healing is deeply personal, and every individual’s journey deserves to be treated with care, patience, and respect. That’s why our approach is rooted in holistic, evidence-based therapies, tailored to meet the unique needs of each client. Substance use is often connected to deeper emotional struggles, trauma, or co-occurring mental health conditions, so we offer support that goes beyond managing symptoms—we address the whole person, fostering growth from the inside out.
Our therapeutic care integrates the following approaches, designed to equip clients with both the practical tools and emotional resilience they need for sustainable recovery:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
This structured, goal-oriented approach helps clients identify and shift unhelpful thoughts and behaviors that may fuel substance use. By developing healthier ways of thinking, clients build new patterns that promote emotional well-being and encourage long-term sobriety.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
Recovery can feel overwhelming, especially when emotional regulation is difficult. DBT equips clients with techniques to manage distressing emotions, tolerate discomfort, and improve interpersonal relationships—essential tools for navigating triggers and preventing relapse.
Mindfulness-Based Therapy
Substance use often pulls individuals away from the present moment, disconnecting them from their thoughts and emotions. Mindfulness practice restores that connection, encouraging clients to be fully present in their recovery. This approach helps reduce cravings, increase self-awareness, and build coping strategies grounded in compassion for oneself.
How Serengeti Wellness Stands Apart
Every recovery journey is deeply personal, and at Serengeti Wellness, we honor that. We lead with empathy, integrity, and inclusivity to ensure that every individual feels seen, heard, and supported. Here’s what makes our care different:
What If I’m Sober Curious?
Being sober curious is about taking a closer look at your relationship with alcohol or other substances—whether or not you see it as a problem. It’s an invitation to pause, reflect, and explore how these substances impact your mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Maybe you’re wondering if cutting back could help you feel more balanced, or you’re curious about what life without substances might look like.
As your sobriety therapist, we’re here to walk with you on that journey, no matter where you are. Therapy offers a safe, non-judgmental space to explore these questions with openness and curiosity. Together, we’ll look at how substances fit into your life—your routines, relationships, and emotions—and help you find new ways to cope, connect, and flourish.
You don’t need to hit “rock bottom” to reach out. Whether you’re looking to reduce use, take a break, or build healthier habits, we’ll meet you right where you are. Therapy isn’t about making demands; it’s about creating room for reflection and finding what feels right for you.
Curiosity is a powerful first step toward wellness. If you’re starting to ask questions about your substance use, we’re here to help you explore them with compassion, care, and support.
Frequently Asked Questions About Therapy for Substance Use
How long does substance use therapy usually take?
Every recovery journey is unique. Some people experience progress in 8 to 12 sessions, while others may benefit from longer-term support. Your therapist will collaborate with you to develop a plan tailored to your specific needs and pace.
How can therapy help with sober curiosity?
Therapy can offer a safe space to explore your relationship with alcohol. A therapist can help you reflect on your motivations for drinking, identify triggers, and develop healthier coping mechanisms. A sobriety therapist will also provide support as you navigate social pressures or emotional challenges that might arise during your sober curiosity journey. Ultimately, it helps you make more informed and intentional decisions about alcohol use.
Can therapy help if I’ve relapsed?
Absolutely. Relapse is often part of the recovery process. Your therapist will work with you to identify triggers and develop new strategies, reminding you that setbacks don’t define your journey—they’re simply steps along the way.
What types of therapy are used for substance use?
We offer a range of evidence-based approaches tailored to your needs, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and mindfulness practices. These therapies help you manage cravings, build healthy coping skills, and address the emotional roots of addiction.
Looking for a Substance Use Therapist in Chicago? Our Team Can Help!
Take the First Step Towards Recovery Today With One of Serengeti Wellness’ Substance Use Therapists
We believe that recovery is possible with the right support and guidance. Whether you are struggling with substance use or seeking help for a loved one, our team is here to provide expert, empathetic care tailored to your needs.
Recovery isn’t easy, but with the right support, it’s within reach—and you don’t have to navigate it alone. Our substance use therapist will be by your side every step of the way, offering care that is both compassionate and expert. Therapy isn’t just about making changes; it’s about creating a space where you feel safe to heal, grow, and rediscover your resilience.
Every journey starts with a first step. Schedule a consultation with our trusted therapists in Chicago and let us help you move forward at your own pace. Wherever you are in your recovery, know that we believe in your strength—and we’ll be here to guide you, every step of the way.