Quick Answer
Substance use disorder is a medical condition — not a moral failing — in which the use of alcohol or other substances causes significant impairment or distress. At East Texas Psychiatry and Counseling in Tyler, board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioners treat substance use disorder with coordinated medication management and therapy — in person or by secure video across Texas, with most new patients seen within a week.
Key Takeaways
- Substance Use Disorder is a recognized, treatable condition — not a personal failing — and most people improve with the right, individualized plan.
- Common signs include using more or longer than intended, difficulty cutting down, cravings, continued use despite problems, and a professional evaluation clarifies the picture without you having to self-diagnose.
- Care at East Texas Psychiatry begins with an unhurried 90-minute psychiatric evaluation that shapes a plan around your history and goals.
- Treatment may combine evidence-based medication management and therapy, coordinated under one roof and adjusted over time.
- You can be seen in person at our Tyler clinic on Loop 323 or by secure telepsychiatry anywhere in Texas, with most new patients seen within a week.
01 — OverviewOverview
Substance use disorder is a medical condition — not a moral failing — in which the use of alcohol or other substances causes significant impairment or distress. It's common, it's treatable, and recovery is possible with compassionate, evidence-based care.
Substance Use Disorder is a medical condition in which the use of alcohol or other substances causes significant impairment or distress.
Substance Use Disorder is one of the mental health conditions we treat at East Texas Psychiatry, and effective care often connects with related support such as addiction psychiatry and medication-assisted treatment.
02Signs & Symptoms
Signs can include using more or longer than intended, difficulty cutting down, strong cravings, continued use despite problems, needing more for the same effect (tolerance), withdrawal, and impact on work, health, or relationships.
| Question | What to know |
|---|---|
| Is it treatable? | Yes. Most people improve with an individualized plan of medication management, therapy, or both. |
| Who does it affect? | People of many ages and backgrounds; our team treats adults, and Karen A. English, PMHNP-BC, focuses on children and adolescents. |
| How do we start? | With a 90-minute psychiatric evaluation that clarifies the diagnosis and builds a plan with you. |
| In person or virtual? | Both — in person at our Tyler clinic on Loop 323, or by secure video anywhere in Texas. |
| How soon can I be seen? | Most new patients are seen within a week. Call (430) 288-5800 to start. |
03Causes & Risk Factors
Substance use disorders develop from a mix of genetics, brain chemistry, stress, trauma, and environment. They often co-occur with depression, anxiety, or trauma, which we treat together.
04How We Help
We provide addiction psychiatry, evidence-based medication-assisted treatment (MAT), and substance use treatment, beginning with a psychiatric evaluation and treating co-occurring conditions together.
The challenge
Living with substance use disorder can quietly erode sleep, focus, relationships, and the ability to enjoy daily life — and waiting often makes it harder.
Our approach
A board-certified PMHNP evaluates what's really going on and builds an evidence-based plan — medication management, therapy, or both — tailored to you.
The outcome
With coordinated, monitored care that's adjusted over time, most people find meaningful, lasting relief and get back to the life they want.
Take the first step
Help for substance use disorder starts with one conversation — most new patients are seen within a week.
05What to Expect
You'll begin with an unhurried evaluation, leave with a clear understanding and a plan, and have coordinated follow-up as treatment evolves. This page is educational and isn't a substitute for personalized medical advice.
06Trusted Resources & Support
Learn more from National Institute on Drug Abuse. These national organizations also offer reliable information and 24/7 support:
NIMH — Help for Mental Illnesses · SAMHSA National Helpline · 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline · MedlinePlus — Mental Health
The Bottom Line
Substance Use Disorder is treatable, and help is closer than it feels. The most important step is the first one — a conversation with a board-certified PMHNP who listens. Call (430) 288-5800 or schedule online; most new patients are seen within a week.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is addiction a disease?
Yes. Substance use disorder is a recognized medical condition involving changes in the brain. It is treatable, and recovery is possible with the right support.
What is medication-assisted treatment (MAT)?
MAT combines FDA-approved medications with counseling and support to treat substance use disorders, especially opioid and alcohol use disorders. It's evidence-based and effective.
Where can I get immediate help?
SAMHSA's National Helpline (1-800-662-HELP) offers free, confidential, 24/7 support. In an emergency, call 911 or 988.
How We Reviewed This Page
This page was written for East Texas Psychiatry and Counseling and reviewed by our board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioners for clinical accuracy. It draws on guidance from primary sources such as the National Institute of Mental Health and other .gov/.org authorities cited below, and reflects how our Tyler-based team approaches care. It is reviewed and updated regularly.
What's new: June 2026 — full content review and brand-aligned rebuild.
References & Trusted Resources
- National Institute on Drug Abuse. https://nida.nih.gov/
- National Institute of Mental Health — Health Topics. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. https://988lifeline.org/
- SAMHSA National Helpline. https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline
