Recovery Without Judgment: Personalized Treatment for Substance Use

People from all walks of life can experience struggles with substance use. Whether you’ve found yourself addicted to nicotine, alcohol, legal or illegal drugs, or other substances, recovery is possible. The path to recovery is not the same for everyone, so Lee Health, through Lee Physician Group Addiction Medicine, offers individualized treatment in a non-stigmatizing environment.

Amanda Ortt, LCSW, is one of the behavioral health clinicians who works with adults in recovery. A licensed clinical social worker, Amanda is a therapist and helps patients realize the possible underlying issues or causes leading them to use substances.

“Many people in recovery have substance use disorder plus another diagnosis, like depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar or other trauma,” Amanda explains. “I help them address the supporting diagnosis to empower the individual to be where they want to be—what I mean is that sobriety may not necessarily be the patient’s ultimate goal, and that’s OK. I’m focused on the true sense of harm reduction.”

Amanda uses a variety of techniques to help her patients take control of their addiction and their lives. She holds certifications in trauma, addiction and other modalities, like equine and pet therapy. She helps her patients using talk therapy, like cognitive-behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing. She utilizes trauma-informed care to promote healing and recovery. She helps her patients recognize their habits, what is causing them to fall back on those habits and determine what they can focus on and do instead.

“I teach my patients to get focused, and I help them with accountability, emotional regulation and time management,” she says. “It is an honor to hold space to empower individuals to make changes, to help them live healthier ways, and get the lifestyle they want.”

If you have a craving or a strong urge to use substances, if you want or have failed to cut down or quit using substances, or if your use of the substances impacts your life (i.e., failure to complete major tasks or responsibilities at work, school or home, or if you gave up leisure activities), then you should seek treatment.

Substance use disorder and addiction are more common than you may realize, and if you are experiencing it, you are not alone. Nonjudgmental, compassionate care and support based on the latest research are available for you. Recovery is possible and is a journey that transforms lives, restores hope and empowers communities. To learn more, visit www.LeeHealth.org/our-services/addiction-medicine.