Substance Abuse

While it can be challenging to admit you need help with substance use disorder, recognizing that you need help is the first step to recovery. At Lehigh Valley Wellness in Allentown, Pennsylvania, Stephen McCarthy, PA, prioritizes your mental, emotional, and physical health during treatment for substance abuse. They offer a range of treatment options to help you achieve your goals and regain control over your life, including medication-assistant treatment (MAT) to reduce your cravings and withdrawal effects. Call the office to learn more about substance abuse and the remedies available, or book an appointment online today.

When should I seek treatment for substance abuse?

Lehigh Valley Wellness recommends seeking treatment for substance abuse, or substance use disorder, when the use of alcohol or drugs begins interfering with your quality of life, including:

• Work relationships
• Personal relationships
• Financial problems
• Spending money on alcohol, drug, or other substance, even though you can't afford it
• Dramatic changes in sleeping patterns and eating habits
• Irritability or changes in mood
• Lack of coordination
• Slurred speech

People with a substance use disorder might not be the first to notice they are abusing alcohol or drugs, but loved ones might. Even though you know it's causing problems in your life or causing you physical or psychological harm, continuing to use the substance is a sign to seek treatment for substance abuse.

If you are getting negative feedback from your family or friends, or if you’re no longer able to keep up with the responsibilities of your job and life in general, Lehigh Valley Wellness can help.

What are the substance abuse services available?

At Lehigh Valley Wellness, comprehensive substance abuse services help reduce reliance on alcohol and various drugs, including opioids. They provide:

• Psychiatric evaluations
• Substance abuse evaluations
• Medication assisted treatment (MAT)
• Medication management

After a full evaluation of your mental health, physical health, and substance abuse issues, Lehigh Valley Wellness develops a treatment plan focusing on your long-term recovery.

What is the purpose of a treatment plan for substance abuse?

Lehigh Valley Wellness takes a holistic, alternative approach when designing patients’ treatment plans for substance abuse.

The mental health practice often recommends buprenorphine-naloxone (brand name Suboxone®) when treating opioid dependence. This medication works by reducing the effects opioids like fentanyl, oxycodone, and morphine have on your brain so that you can overcome addiction without severe cravings or withdrawal symptoms.

Lehigh Valley Wellness can also address mental health issues contributing to substance use disorder and substance abuse. They offer medications to treat anxiety and depression. 

You may need a referral for psychotherapy (talk therapy) to help maintain sobriety. Lehigh Valley Wellness provides additional resources to improve your health and quality of life, including telemedicine services.

Substance abuse services are available through in-office visits at Lehigh Valley Wellness as well as their telemedicine platform. To get started on your recovery, call the office or request an appointment online today.