Mental Health – Addiction Counseling & Therapy
Mental Health counseling is a structured, supportive process for reducing harm, strengthening stability, and building a recovery plan that fits your real life. On this page I explain how counseling works, what to expect in a first appointment, and how we protect privacy — so you can take a next step with clarity in Reno and Washoe County.
Susan provides compassionate, steady clinical counseling for adults navigating substance use concerns,
stress, and major life transitions. With an approach that is both warm and structured, she focuses on
helping people feel safe, understood, and clear on next steps — while keeping care grounded in evidence,
professionalism, and confidentiality.
Licensed by the Nevada Board of Examiners for Social Workers.
Phone:
(775) 238-6170
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Contact & Scheduling
Note: This practice does not provide prescription services; when medication support is appropriate,
referrals are provided to qualified medical providers.
Addiction counseling helps people understand substance use patterns and build change that lasts — whether that means abstinence, a harm-reduction pathway, or stabilizing after a relapse. I use evidence-based approaches such as Motivational Interviewing and a Stages of Change framework, and I draw on the ASAM Criteria and DSM-5-TR substance use disorder criteria to understand severity, risks, and level-of-care needs. Counseling also supports the “whole picture,” including co-occurring concerns like anxiety, depression, trauma stress, sleep disruption, or relationship strain. SAMHSA recovery principles guide the tone: person-centered care, respect, and practical supports. Our work is aligned with IC&RC-aligned practice standards so the process stays structured and clinically grounded. The first session is about understanding what you’re dealing with and what “better” looks like for you. We’ll discuss current use patterns, what’s been changing recently, stressors, sleep, relationships, work, and what supports you already have. I’ll ask structured questions and may use brief screening tools to clarify risk and needs in a way that’s consistent and clinically defensible. You won’t be pushed to disclose more than is necessary for safe, effective care. We’ll focus on understanding triggers, cravings, and the function substances have been serving, then begin building alternatives that fit your life. We can explain options and coordinate referrals, and we’ll recommend medical evaluation when withdrawal or medical risk may be present. No. Many people start counseling while they’re still using, especially if the goal is stabilization and harm reduction. We’ll focus on safety, patterns, and practical steps you can take right away. If withdrawal risk may be present, we’ll prioritize medical evaluation and coordinated support. The point is to begin with what’s possible today. Frequency depends on risk level, stress load, and what you’re trying to change. Many people benefit from weekly sessions early on to build momentum and skills, then taper as stability improves. If you’re balancing work and family in Reno or commuting from Sparks, we’ll plan something sustainable rather than idealistic. I use Motivational Interviewing to strengthen your own reasons for change and reduce shame-driven cycles. I also use Stages of Change to match the plan to your readiness, and I reference ASAM Criteria and DSM-5-TR concepts to clarify risk and level-of-care needs. The tone stays collaborative, structured, and practical. Yes. Co-occurring concerns are common, and we address both the substance use pattern and the stress system underneath it. That may include coping skills, sleep support, emotion regulation, and communication strategies, alongside recovery planning. If symptoms suggest a medical or psychiatric evaluation is needed, I’ll recommend a coordinated referral. Confidentiality standards may apply, including HIPAA and 42 CFR Part 2 where appropriate. We use clear consent and release forms so you understand what is shared, with whom, and why. If you’re contacting us online, do not include sensitive medical or legal details in web forms. Progress in counseling is often quieter than people expect. It can look like fewer high-risk moments, better sleep, more honest conversations, or a plan for what to do when cravings hit. We track what works, adjust what doesn’t, and keep the focus on safety, functioning, and stability — not perfection. If you’ve tried to change before, we don’t treat that as failure — we treat it as data. We identify what helped, what got in the way, and what supports were missing. In Washoe County, that may include referral coordination for higher levels of care, group supports, medical follow-up, or family sessions, depending on your needs and goals. If discretion matters — for your family, your job, or your peace of mind — we keep the process calm and respectful. Confidentiality standards may apply, including HIPAA and 42 CFR Part 2 where appropriate, and we’ll explain consent and releases in plain language. Do not include sensitive medical or legal details in web forms. If you’re ready to start, the best first step is a simple intake focused on goals and safety — not a deep dive into painful details. We’ll identify immediate risks, choose a starting frequency, and map out supports that fit your life. When appropriate, I can coordinate referrals with trusted local providers and programs in the Reno area, with your written authorization.
Susan Mary Chappell, LCSW
What Addiction Counseling & Therapy Is (and Who It Helps)
What to Expect in Your First Counseling Session
Practical Note (Reno): If you’re coming in from Midtown or Sparks, build in time for parking and winter weather. If mornings are hard, consider an afternoon slot — consistency matters more than “perfect” scheduling.
Immediate 5 Questions People Ask About Addiction Counseling
Do I have to be sober before starting therapy?
How often should I come in at the beginning?
What approaches do you use in addiction counseling?
Can counseling help if I’m also dealing with anxiety or depression?
How will my privacy be protected?
What Progress Can Look Like (Without Hype)
Local Trust & Next Steps for Counseling in Reno
Clinical Approach & Safety
Addiction counseling is a collaborative process. While I utilize evidence-based frameworks like Motivational Interviewing and the ASAM Criteria, progress is determined by individual goals and clinical safety. Our work is focused on stabilization and long-term health.
Safety & Harm Reduction: Counseling is not a substitute for emergency medical care. If you are experiencing acute withdrawal symptoms, a medical crisis, or thoughts of self-harm, please contact 988 or go to the nearest emergency room in Reno (such as Renown or St. Mary’s). We prioritize medical stability as the foundation for any therapeutic work.
Notice of Clinical Independence: While I coordinate care with other providers with your written consent, I remain an independent practitioner. My recommendations are based solely on clinical assessment and the ethical standards of the Nevada State Board of Examiners.