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Substance use exists on a spectrum; from occasional use, to risky use, to dependence and addiction. When substances start affecting your health, relationships, work, mood, or safety, getting support early can reduce harm and improve outcomes.
At The Cohen Clinic, we provide therapy for adults in Toronto who are concerned about alcohol or drug use, cravings, relapse cycles, or substance use that is linked to stress, trauma, anxiety, or depression. We also support people who are navigating recovery and want stable, ongoing coping strategies.If you or someone you know is thinking about suicide, support is available right now. In Canada, you can call or text 9-8-8 (24/7) to reach trained crisis responders. If you are in immediate danger or need urgent medical help, call 9-1-1 or go to the nearest emergency department.
At The Cohen Clinic, we provide therapy for adults in Toronto who are struggling with suicidal thoughts, emotional pain, hopelessness, or feeling unable to cope. You do not need to be “at your worst” to reach out. Early support matters.
If you are worried about overdose, severe intoxication, or immediate danger, call 9-1-1.
If you want immediate support or help finding services in Ontario, ConnexOntario is available 24/7 by phone, text, or chat.
If you are looking for Canada-wide help and resources, Health Canada lists support options and helplines.
Substance use becomes a concern when it starts creating harm or loss of control. Addiction is commonly associated with cravings and continued use despite negative consequences. CAMH describes addiction as involving craving and changes in the brain’s reward system that make repeating use more likely.
Health Canada also describes substance use in terms of stages, tolerance, dependence, and withdrawal.
Substance misuse means using alcohol, cannabis, or other drugs in a way that increases risk; even if dependence is not present. It can include using more than intended, using in unsafe situations, or using a medication differently than prescribed.
Harmful (problematic) use means the pattern is already causing real negative consequences in health, relationships, work/school, finances, or safety. A person may still have some control at times, but the impact is becoming clear.
Addiction (often described clinically as substance use disorder) involves impaired control and a pattern of use that continues despite significant harm. Cravings, compulsive use, and repeated failed attempts to cut back are common. Tolerance and withdrawal may be present, but they are not the only markers.
Substance use and mental health frequently interact. CMHA notes that substance use can affect mental health, and mental health can affect substance use.
Many people also experience concurrent disorders, meaning a mental health condition and a substance use problem at the same time.
Common mental health concerns that may co-occur with substance use include:
People use substances for many reasons, including:
None of these reasons mean someone is “weak.” They often reflect an attempt to cope. Therapy focuses on replacing short-term relief strategies with safer, sustainable options.
Therapy can support both harm reduction and recovery goals. The approach depends on your situation and what you want to change.
If substance use is tied to anxiety, trauma, or low mood, therapy addresses those drivers directly. Concurrent mental health and substance use challenges are common and benefit from integrated support.
For some substances and patterns of dependence, medical support may be important; especially if withdrawal risks are a concern. ConnexOntario can help connect you with appropriate Ontario services quickly.
At The Cohen Clinic, we provide non-judgmental therapy that supports adults who want to change their relationship with substances. Your care plan is tailored to your goals; whether you are exploring change, reducing harm, building recovery stability, or addressing the mental health concerns connected to use.
If substance use is affecting your wellbeing or daily life, support is available. Therapy can help you build healthier coping strategies, reduce relapse risk, and make changes that last.
At The Cohen Clinic, we’re here to support you.
Book an Appointment today to begin your therapy journey.
