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Substance Use Recovery

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Substance Use Recovery

Recovery isn’t a straight line, and it certainly isn’t one-size-fits-all. What works well for one person may not work for another, and part of the process is figuring out what actually fits you.

Individual counseling provides space to look honestly at patterns around substance use, understand what’s driving them, and develop healthier ways of coping with stress, emotions, and everyday life. The focus is on building insight, strengthening decision-making, and addressing the areas of life that have been affected along the way.

Recovery also doesn’t happen in a vacuum. Counseling often works best alongside other supports such as 12-step programs, group therapy, or medication-assisted treatment when appropriate and aligned with your goals. The approach is flexible, realistic, and focused on helping you build stability over time because recovery isn’t about doing everything perfectly, it’s about finding what actually works and sticking with it.

Simple Steps Toward Practical Change

Starting therapy can feel like a major shift. I’ve made the process clear and structured so you know exactly what to expect from the first contact.

01
Initial Contact
Reach out by phone, text, email, or through the Contact Us page to ask about availability and next steps.
02
Intake and Paperwork
If moving forward, you’ll complete intake forms and schedule an initial intake session to gather background information and clarify goals.
03
Intake Session
During the intake, we’ll review your concerns, history, and priorities, and outline an initial plan for treatment.
04
Ongoing Sessions
Follow-up sessions are scheduled based on your needs and availability. Most clients begin with weekly or bi-weekly sessions, adjusting frequency over time depending on progress and circumstances.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I expect from the first session?
The first session is an intake appointment where we talk about what brings you in, your history, and what you’re hoping to change. It’s also a chance for you to get a feel for how I work and decide if this feels like a good fit. There’s no pressure to share more than you’re ready to.
That depends on your goals and circumstances. Some people come for short-term, focused work, while others benefit from longer-term support. We regularly check in about progress and adjust as needed.
Feeling comfortable and respected matters. If you’re looking for a direct, collaborative approach that focuses on practical change rather than judgment, this may be a good fit. If not, I’m happy to help point you toward other options.

My work is grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and practical, real-world change, with integration of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Motivational Interviewing (MI) when appropriate. Treatment focuses on identifying patterns that are no longer effective, increasing psychological flexibility, clarifying values, and strengthening motivation for change. Therapy is collaborative, direct, and tailored to your individual goals and needs.

No. I do not offer couples or marriage counseling. My practice focuses exclusively on individual therapy for teens (16+) and adults. If you are seeking couples, marriage, or family counseling, I would recommend finding a local Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) on Psychology Today or at LifeStance Health, as they are specifically trained to work with family systems and relational dynamics.

Both. Sessions are offered in person at my Mashpee office or via secure teletherapy for clients throughout Massachusetts

No. I do not prescribe medication. However, when clinically indicated, I collaborate with a select group of Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners throughout Massachusetts and regularly refer patients for medication evaluation and management when it may be a beneficial component of their treatment and recovery.
Yes. I accept several insurance plans in addition to private pay. Current fees by service, as well as the list of insurance plans I accept, are outlined on the Fees & Insurance page. If you have questions about coverage, costs, or payment prior to scheduling, I’m happy to discuss them with you. Patient financial responsibilities, including co-payments and deductibles, vary by insurance provider; however, you will be informed of any anticipated costs prior to scheduling your intake appointment.
Appointments canceled with less than 48 hours’ notice or missed appointments are subject to a $125 fee. This policy reflects the importance of mutual respect for time and helps support a consistent, reliable therapeutic relationship built on trust and accountability.

Getting started is straightforward. You can reach out through the contact form on the website, call or text 617-877-9594, or email me directly at mdonlan@donlancounseling.com. I’m happy to answer questions, discuss availability, and help determine the most appropriate next steps for your situation.