Substance Use Therapists in Duncan, BC
Ed Chen M.Ed, RCC-ACS, CCC
Registered Clinical Counsellor, Registered Clinical Supervisor, Canadian Certified Counsellor
Ed is a BCACC registered, CCPA certified clinical counsellor, and a BCACC Approved Clinical Supervisor. Ed has extensive experience in delivering Dialectical Behavior Therapy to high-risk adults, youths and families experiencing concerns such as suicidality, self-harm, impulsivity, depression, anxiety, trauma, and addictions.
Brisha Marli Clark
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
I understand that we can all fall into cycles of negative self-thoughts and limiting beliefs. Inspired by Maya Angelou’s words—“you may not control all the events that happen to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them”—I approach therapy with the belief that while we may not choose our hardships, we do have the power to grow through them.
Katharine De Santos
Registered Psychotherapist
Healthy Minds Psychotherapy was founded in 2018 with the mission of providing psychotherapeutic care to individuals from diverse backgrounds, fostering resilience in each person and our community as a whole.
Justine Little
Registered Social Worker
Do you feel like you're stuck in old patterns? Are you always zoning out or in crisis mode? Do you struggle to connect with your body and aren't quite sure what it means to feel your feelings? Would you prefer to work with a queer therapist with experience supporting 2SLGBTQ+ folks and who is committed to integrating social justice into therapeutic work?
Jessica Kurucz
Registered Social Worker
I provide support to adults and couples. I have experience working with individuals experiencing trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship problems, gender issues, substance use, low self-esteem, stress-related issues, and chronic illness. I recognize that it takes a great deal of courage to make the decision to start counselling. I consider it a privilege to be invited into your life
Abby Tait
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
You might come to therapy feeling stuck in familiar patterns - ways of coping, thinking, or relating that once made sense but now feel hard to shift. You may be thoughtful and self-aware, yet find yourself overthinking, avoiding certain emotions, or feeling disconnected from who you are or where you’re headed. Questions about identity, values, and purpose often sit quietly underneath these experi…
Amanda Sparks
Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy (CCPA), Canadain Certified Counselor (CCC), Registered Certified Counselor (RCC)
Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy (CCPA), Canadain Certified Counselor (CCC), Registered Certified Counselor (RCC)
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Frequently Asked Questions About Substance Use
What is substance use disorder and how does it differ from occasional use?
Substance use disorder is diagnosed when substance use causes significant impairment or distress — affecting work, relationships, health, or safety — and when the person continues using despite these consequences, or has difficulty controlling or stopping use. The DSM-5 conceptualizes substance use on a spectrum from mild to severe, rather than as a binary "addict/not addict." Many people have problematic substance use that causes harm without meeting criteria for full dependence. Therapy is appropriate and beneficial across the full spectrum.
What therapy approaches are most effective for substance use?
Motivational Interviewing (MI) is foundational — it meets people where they are in terms of readiness for change without pressure or confrontation, and strengthens intrinsic motivation. CBT for substance use addresses the triggers, cravings, and thought patterns driving use and builds coping skills. ACT and Mindfulness-Based Relapse Prevention (MBRP) help people change their relationship to cravings. Twelve-step facilitation supports engagement with community programs. For opioid or alcohol use disorder, therapy is often combined with medication-assisted treatment (buprenorphine, naltrexone, methadone) for best outcomes.
Do I have to be abstinent to benefit from therapy for substance use?
No — many effective approaches, including harm reduction therapy, work with people who are actively using or who have not yet committed to abstinence as a goal. Harm reduction recognizes that reducing harm is a valid and meaningful goal, even if abstinence is not immediately achievable or desired. Abstinence-based approaches are also offered, and some people pursue both harm reduction initially and abstinence later. A good therapist will support the goals that align with your values and readiness, without imposing a single pathway.
What is the connection between substance use and mental health?
Substance use and mental health conditions co-occur at very high rates — trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and PTSD are all strongly associated with problematic substance use. Substance use often begins as a way of managing emotional pain, anxiety, or trauma symptoms. Treating only one without addressing the other leads to poorer outcomes. Integrated treatment — addressing both substance use and co-occurring mental health conditions simultaneously — is recognized as best practice. Look for a therapist with experience in both areas.
How long does therapy for substance use typically take?
Recovery from substance use disorder is typically a longer process, often measured in years rather than months — though meaningful change begins earlier. Many people engage in intensive treatment initially (more frequent sessions or day programs) and then step down to weekly therapy and community support. Relapse is a common and often necessary part of the recovery process, not a sign of failure. Long-term engagement with therapy and/or peer support communities significantly improves outcomes.