Substance Use Therapy

Support centered on the person—not the label.

Marcelo brings experience supporting people with substance use concerns through motivational interviewing and a person-centered approach that respects autonomy, dignity, and readiness for change.

Motivational interviewing

Making room for honest ambivalence.

It is common to want change and feel uncertain about it at the same time. Motivational interviewing offers a respectful way to explore both sides without confrontation, pressure, or shame.

The conversation helps clarify what matters to you, recognize your own reasons for change, and identify steps that fit your goals and present level of readiness.

Ask about substance use therapy

The spirit of the approach

Four principles that protect the person's voice

Partnership

Change is approached as a collaboration, not something imposed on you.

Acceptance

Your dignity, perspective, choices, and autonomy remain central.

Compassion

The conversation stays focused on your wellbeing rather than judgment or shame.

Evocation

Therapy draws out your own values, strengths, and reasons for change.

“A person is more than a diagnosis, a behavior, or a difficult chapter.”

Why person-centered care matters

Respect supports meaningful change.

A person-centered approach recognizes that change is deeply personal. Therapy pays attention to the whole person—their history, relationships, culture, strengths, values, and hopes—not only to substance use.

Listen without judgment Follow personally meaningful goals Preserve dignity and choice

What therapy can support

Change can begin at different stages.

You do not have to arrive with complete certainty or a perfect plan.

Feeling uncertain or divided about change Understanding patterns and triggers Strengthening motivation and confidence Setting personally meaningful goals Responding constructively to setbacks Building stability after treatment

Important:

Outpatient psychotherapy is not a substitute for emergency care or medically supervised withdrawal. If there is an immediate risk of overdose, severe withdrawal, or danger, call 911 or seek emergency medical care.