I can’t stop drinking, using, or betting
Substance Use & Gambling
In crisis? Call or text 988 (press 2 for Spanish), or text HOME to 741741. If you’re in immediate danger, call 911.
Maybe you’ve promised yourself you’d cut back, and you didn’t. Maybe someone you love is worried, or angry, or done.
Drinking, using and betting can start as a way to relax, cope, or feel something. Over time, the habit can start running you.
Needing help is not a lack of willpower. Addiction changes how the brain handles reward and stress. That’s why trying harder often isn’t enough.
This part of the guide also covers licensed professionals in monitoring programs and people sent to therapy by a court.
Is this you?
- You use or bet more, or longer, than you planned.
- You’ve tried to cut back and couldn’t.
- You hide how much you drink, use, spend or bet.
- Your partner or family is worried or angry about it.
- It’s causing problems at work, with money, or with the law.
- You feel sick, shaky or on edge when you stop.
Stopping suddenly can be dangerous. If you drink heavily every day, or use sedatives like Xanax or Valium, talk to a doctor before you stop. Withdrawal from these can cause seizures. If you have a seizure, confusion or hallucinations, call 911.
Start here
What addiction does to the brain, in plain language.
When betting stops being fun and starts costing you.
Licensed Professionals in Monitoring Programs →
Therapy for nurses, doctors and others in PRN or IPN.
What to Expect from Court-Ordered Therapy →
What happens when a judge or lawyer sends you to therapy.
How addiction work with me happens.
See also: When Anger Takes Over · High-Functioning Anxiety · High-Functioning Depression
I treat this. If you need detox or a more intensive program first, I’ll help you find the right level of care. For free, confidential help finding treatment anytime, call the SAMHSA National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357. For gambling, call 1-800-GAMBLER.
How therapy works with me
We look at what the drinking, using or betting does for you, not just what it costs you. It usually solves a problem before it becomes one.
I pay close attention to your words. “I can handle it.” “Just a couple.” “I’ll win it back.” Those phrases often show where the habit is hiding.
Addiction affects the whole family. Partners and family members can join sessions, even if you’re not sure about change yet. Sessions are by video, in English or Spanish.
If drinking or using has led to threats or violence at home, safety comes first. Call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233, free and 24/7.
Ready to stop fighting it alone?
Use your insurance · see your cost before you book
¿Prefiere español? Agende una sesión en español →
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to quit completely to start therapy?
No. You can start wherever you are. We’ll set goals together, and we’ll be honest about what’s working.
I’m a nurse or doctor in a monitoring program. Can you help?
Yes. I work with licensed professionals in programs like PRN and IPN in Florida.
Can my partner or family come?
Yes. Family sessions often help, both for you and for the people who love you. Coverage depends on your plan.
Do you provide court-ordered therapy?
Yes, for adults in Florida. I don’t do custody evaluations.
Start with the truth, as much as you can
You don’t have to have it figured out.
You can start with one sentence:
“I keep saying I’ll stop, and I don’t.”
We can start there.
In-network with Aetna, Cigna, Florida Blue, UnitedHealthcare and more through Headway · 53-minute sessions
Telehealth anywhere in Florida · English / Español
In crisis? Call or text 988.
Eduardo Florez, LMHC
Eduardo Florez, LMHC, has worked across forensic, institutional and private practice settings. He is the founder and clinical director of ShieldMee, a Florida nonprofit telehealth practice, and works bilingually with couples in crisis and clients for whom therapy hasn’t worked before.
Related hubs: Couples & Relationships · Depression · Trauma & PTSD · All topics