I am a true believer that no one intends to become an addict or alcoholic, but that one's personality, genetic makeup, and/or trauma history contribute to their drug and alcohol dependency. Depending on the client, I take either an abstinence-based or harm-reduction-model approach. I lean on the tenets of 12-step programming (such as: one-day-at-a-time; taking personal ownership; letting go of resentments) as I explore with my clients the purpose that drugs and alcohol played in their lives. While exploring or maintaining sobriety, I encourage my clients to engage with hobbies they once enjoyed, be of service to their community, and increase their social connection—all of which help to create a more meaningful life outside of their addiction. I have extensive experience working with clients who have struggled with alcohol, methamphetamines, opioids, stimulants, depressants, hallucinogens and analgesics. In some cases, it is necessary for clients to attend a higher level of care/detox prior to engaging in outpatient addiction therapy services.