Medication Management for Substance Use Disorder in Olympia and Federal Way, WA

At Three Points Healing, we understand that substance use disorder is a complex medical condition characterized by problematic patterns of substance use that lead to significant distress, impairment, or negative consequences in a person’s life. Whether involving alcohol, drugs, prescription medications, or other substances, substance use disorders profoundly impact health, relationships, work, and overall daily functioning.

At our practice, we recognize that individuals experiencing substance use disorder often face challenges such as impaired control over their substance use, persistent cravings, and continued use even in situations that are dangerous or damaging. Over time, this struggle may lead to tolerance, requiring higher amounts of the substance to achieve desired effects, and withdrawal symptoms upon reduction or cessation.

Substance use disorder affects people from all walks of life, regardless of age, gender, cultural background, or socioeconomic status. Our compassionate team addresses the contributing factors—including genetic predisposition, environmental influences, psychological conditions, and social pressures—with a holistic approach tailored to each individual’s unique needs.

At Three Points Healing, early intervention and customized treatment plans are central to our approach, significantly improving recovery outcomes and empowering individuals to regain control, heal, and thrive.

Substance use disorder (SUD) is characterized by a pattern of harmful use of substances such as alcohol, prescription medications, or illicit drugs that leads to significant impairment or distress. Symptoms can vary in severity and may affect physical health, mental well-being, and social functioning. Recognizing these symptoms early is important for seeking appropriate treatment and support.

Common symptoms of substance use disorder include:

• Craving: A strong desire or urge to use the substance.
• Loss of control: Using more of the substance or for longer than intended.
• Withdrawal symptoms: Physical or mental symptoms when not using the substance, such as sweating, shaking, anxiety, or nausea.
• Tolerance: Needing more of the substance to achieve the same effect.
• Neglecting responsibilities: Failing to meet work, school, or family obligations due to substance use.
• Continued use despite problems: Persisting in substance use even when it causes health, social, or legal issues.
• Spending excessive time: Investing a lot of time obtaining, using, or recovering from substance use.
• Giving up activities: Reducing or abandoning social, occupational, or recreational activities in favor of substance use.

If you or a loved one experiences these symptoms, professional evaluation and treatment can provide the necessary support for recovery.

At Three Points Healing, we believe in addressing substance use disorders through an integrative, compassionate, and patient-centered approach that nurtures healing on multiple levels—medical, psychological, and social. Our philosophy begins with a comprehensive evaluation, carefully assessing each individual’s unique experience with substance use, mental health status, and personal support environment. This ensures a customized treatment plan, tailored to the patient’s individual needs and circumstances.

In the initial stages of care, medically supervised detoxification may be necessary to safely manage withdrawal symptoms and stabilize the patient’s physical health. Our skilled medical professionals ensure this process occurs in a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment, promoting the patient’s comfort and well-being.

As part of our holistic approach, we also consider pharmacological treatments when appropriate. Medications may be prescribed to help reduce cravings, support sustained recovery, or manage co-occurring mental health conditions. These interventions are always personalized, carefully tailored to fit each patient’s specific needs.

Recognizing that healing involves the whole person, we emphasize the importance of community and social support networks. We actively encourage patients to engage family, friends, and local resources in their healing journey.

Medication management is an important part of effective treatment for substance use disorder (SUD). It involves using approved medications to help reduce cravings, ease withdrawal symptoms, and support long-term recovery. When combined with counseling and behavioral therapies, medication management can significantly improve treatment outcomes and help individuals maintain sobriety.

The medications used vary depending on the type of substance involved, targeting brain chemistry to reduce cravings, block the pleasurable effects of substances, or stabilize mood and function. These treatments work by interacting with specific receptors or pathways to support the recovery process.

Our healthcare professionals tailor medication management to each patient’s unique needs, considering their medical history, substance use patterns, and treatment goals. This personalized approach ensures safety and effectiveness and is most successful when paired with counseling, therapy, and support services that address the psychological and social aspects of addiction.

At Three Points Healing, we believe that effective substance use disorder treatment is personalized, multidisciplinary, and ongoing. By combining expert medical supervision, evidence-based therapies, medication-assisted treatment, peer support, and integrated mental health care, our practice guides individuals toward lasting recovery and a healthier, balanced life. For more information, contact us or book an appointment. Our clinics are conveniently located in Olympia, WA, and Federal Way, WA. We serve clients from Olympia WA, Federal Way WA, Tacoma WA, Lakewood WA, Lacey WA, Kent WA, Auburn WA, Des Moines WA, and surrounding areas.