Therapy for Substance Abuse in Inverness and the Highlands

Struggling with substance use can feel isolating especially when it starts affecting your health, relationships, work, or sense of self. Whether you're using substances to cope, feel in control, or escape difficult emotions, it’s okay to ask for support.

At Highland Psychological Services, we offer confidential, non-judgemental therapy for individuals experiencing issues related to alcohol or drug use. Our focus is on understanding the "why" behind the behaviour and helping you move toward change at a pace that feels manageable and respectful.

Understanding Substance Use Difficulties

Substance use exists on a spectrum. Some people use alcohol or drugs recreationally, while others may begin to rely on them to cope with stress, trauma, anxiety, or emotional pain. You don’t need to meet a formal diagnosis of addiction to benefit from therapy.

You might be:

• Drinking or using more than you'd like, more often than you'd planned

• Using substances to numb emotions, manage anxiety, or escape difficult thoughts

• Struggling with guilt, shame, or secrecy about your use

• Feeling like you've lost control or don't recognise yourself anymore

• Experiencing relationship issues or work disruptions linked to your substance use

• Wanting to reduce or stop, but not sure how or where to start

Whatever your situation, therapy can help you explore the deeper patterns behind your substance use and create a path forward that works for you.

How Therapy Can Help You Build a Healthier Relationship with Substances

We offer supportive, compassionate therapy to help you understand your relationship with substances without pressure, labels, or judgment.

Our therapists can support you to:

• Explore the emotional or psychological factors driving your substance use

• Develop healthier ways to cope with stress, pain, or emotional triggers

• Set realistic goals whether that’s cutting down or stopping completely

• Build emotional resilience and self-awareness

• Reconnect with your values, motivation, and sense of identity

We use approaches like integrative counselling, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and compassion-focused therapy, always guided by what feels right and helpful for you.