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Substance Use Therapy

THERAPY AND COUNSELING IN BATAVIA AND NAPERVILLE, IL AND ONLINE

Sound like you?

"The shame and guilt are overwhelming; I don't believe I deserve help."

"I've hurt those I love, and I don't know how to make things better."

"I feel trapped in this cycle and don't know how to break free."

"I fear that without this mask, the world will see my scars."

You may wake up each day telling yourself, Today will be different, only to find yourself reaching for the thing you swore you’d avoid. Maybe you’ve tried to stop, but the stress, the memories, or the emptiness feel unbearable without it. Some days, you feel in control, but other days, the cravings or the need to escape take over, leaving you caught in a cycle of guilt, fear, and frustration. You might use to numb old wounds, silence intrusive thoughts, or simply get through the day, but deep down, you know something needs to change. Substance use isn’t just about willpower—it’s often a response to deeper pain, unresolved trauma, or emotions too overwhelming to face alone. If you feel stuck, you’re not broken, and you don’t have to do this alone. Healing is possible, and we’re here to help.

Life doesn't have to stay this way.

We can help!

Schedule Free Consultation Call

Meet Our Team of Trauma -Informed Substance Use Therapists

Healing from substance use and trauma requires more than just stopping the behavior—it requires a therapist who understands the deep, lasting effects of using substances as a way to cope with pain. At Creating Space Therapy, we specializes in trauma-informed substance use therapy, helping individuals explore the connection between their past experiences and their current struggles with compassion and expertise.

We use evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), somatic therapy, Emotion-Focused Therapy, and polyvagal-informed practices to address both substance use and the underlying trauma driving it. Therapy focuses on regulating the nervous system, developing healthier coping strategies, and creating a sense of safety within yourself—allowing you to move toward lasting change, not just temporary relief.

Lydia Gedmin LSW

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Our Locations

Substance Use Therapy in Batavia, IL

34 N Island Ave Ste F, Batavia, IL 60510

Exterior of the Batavia office of Creating Space Therapy, offering expert trauma therapy.

Substance Use Therapy in Naperville, IL

1315 Macom Dr Suite 207, Naperville, IL 60564

Exterior of the Naperville office of Creating Space Therapy, offering expert trauma therapy.

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How Do I Know If I Need Trauma-Informed Substance Use Therapy?

No matter how your substance use began, you may be starting to see its impact on every aspect of your life:

You use substances to cope with painful memories or overwhelming emotions

You feel stuck in cycles of guilt, shame, or self-blame

You experience mood swings, anxiety, or emotional numbness

Your substance use is connected to past trauma, difficult relationships, or emotional pain

It may feel impossible right now, but healing is within reach—you can learn to feel safe in your own body, trust yourself again, and break free from the patterns that trauma and substance use have reinforced. You don’t have to do this alone—we’re here to help.

TRAUMA-INFORMED SUBSTANCE USE THERAPY CAN HELP YOU-

Uncover the Root Causes of Substance Use

Substance use isn’t just about the substances—it’s often a way to cope with deep emotional pain, trauma, or overwhelming stress. Therapy helps you explore the underlying reasons behind your use, so you can address the real source of your struggles.

Develop Healthier Coping Strategies

When substances are your primary way of managing emotions, it can feel impossible to stop. Therapy provides you with new, sustainable ways to regulate your emotions, manage stress, and cope with triggers without relying on substances.

Heal from Shame and Self-Blame

Many people struggling with substance use carry a heavy burden of guilt, shame, or self-judgment. A trauma-informed approach helps you understand that your substance use was a survival response, allowing you to shift from self-blame to self-compassion.

Create Lasting Change and Emotional Stability

Recovery isn’t just about quitting—it’s about building a life where you no longer need substances to feel okay. Therapy helps you strengthen emotional resilience, rebuild self-trust, and create a sense of stability that supports long-term healing.

Heal from the Past and Build a Life of Stability, Self-Trust, and Freedom

Many therapy practices offer support for substance use but may not address the deeper trauma that fuels it. At Creating Space Therapy, we recognize that substance use is often a survival strategy—an attempt to manage pain, regulate emotions, or escape overwhelming memories. That’s why you need more than just behavior-focused treatment. Our trauma-informed approach helps you rebuild trust in yourself, feel safe in your body, and break free from the patterns that have kept you stuck. Through evidence-based therapies like CBT, DBT, somatic therapy, and polyvagal-informed care, we guide you toward healing that goes beyond stopping substance use—helping you create a life where stability, self-trust, and emotional freedom are possible.

We Treat More Than Just the Substance Use

Many treatment approaches focus only on stopping the behavior, but we recognize that substance use is often a response to deeper emotional pain. Our therapy helps you explore the root causes, process trauma safely, and develop healthier ways to cope—so you’re not just managing symptoms, but truly healing.

A Judgment-Free, Personalized Approach

We know that shame and self-blame can keep people from seeking help, which is why we provide a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you can explore your struggles without fear. Instead of a one-size-fits-all treatment plan, we tailor therapy to your unique experiences, strengths, and goals for recovery.

Integration of Evidence-Based Trauma Therapies

Many addiction treatment programs focus only on behavior modification, but we integrate trauma-focused approaches like CBT, DBT, somatic therapy, and polyvagal-informed care to address both substance use and emotional regulation. By healing the nervous system and building emotional resilience, we help you create lasting change—so you no longer need substances to feel okay.

Schedule Free Consultation Call

Common Concerns About Starting Trauma-Informed Substance Use and How We Address Them

Starting therapy for substance use and trauma can feel overwhelming—especially if past experiences have made you believe that change is impossible or that opening up will only lead to more pain. You might wonder if therapy will actually help, if it will feel too intense, or if you’re too far into your struggles to turn things around. These concerns are completely valid. Trauma and substance use can shape the way we see ourselves and our ability to heal, but that doesn’t mean recovery is out of reach. Therapy isn’t about shame or forcing change—it’s about helping you feel safe, understood, and in control of your healing journey. Here, we take things at your pace, using gentle, effective approaches that support both your emotional well-being and your nervous system, ensuring that healing happens in a way that feels manageable and sustainable.

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What if I’m not ready to stop using?

You don’t have to be sober to start therapy. Healing begins with understanding why substances have played a role in your life, not just focusing on stopping. We meet you where you are, helping you explore your relationship with substances and develop healthier coping strategies at a pace that feels right for you.

I’ve tried substance use therapy before, and it didn’t work. How will this be different?

Many traditional therapy approaches focus only on behavior change without addressing the trauma that fuels substance use. Our therapy is trauma-informed, meaning we don’t just help you stop using—we help you heal the underlying pain that keeps you stuck in unhealthy patterns. This approach leads to more lasting, meaningful change.

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What if therapy makes me feel worse?

Opening up about difficult experiences can feel overwhelming, but therapy isn’t about reliving your trauma. We use CBT, DBT, somatic therapy, and polyvagal-informed care to help you process emotions in a way that feels safe and manageable. You are always in control of your healing process, and we move at a pace that supports, rather than overwhelms, your nervous system.

I feel ashamed of my substance use. What if I’m judged?

There is no judgment here—only support. We understand that substance use is often a survival response, not a failure. Therapy provides a compassionate space where you can explore your struggles without shame and begin to rebuild trust in yourself.

Schedule Free Consultation Call

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Effective Treatment for Substance Use Is Possible

Healing from substance use isn’t about willpower—it’s about having the right support, tools, and understanding to make lasting change. Many people believe they have to hit “rock bottom” before they can seek help, but the truth is, effective treatment is available at any stage of your journey.

Whether you’re actively using, questioning your relationship with substances, or working toward long-term recovery, trauma-informed therapy can help you break free from cycles of shame, avoidance, and emotional pain.

At Creating Space Therapy, we use evidence-based approaches like CBT, DBT, somatic therapy, and polyvagal-informed care to help you regulate your emotions, process underlying trauma, and develop healthier coping mechanisms. Substance use doesn’t define you, and you don’t have to face this alone. Recovery is possible, and with the right support, you can create a life that feels stable, fulfilling, and free from the patterns that have kept you stuck.

You deserve healing. Reach out today to take the first step.

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At Creating Space Therapy, You Can Break Free and Heal from Trauma.

WE'RE HERE FOR YOU.

Right now, it may feel like substance use and trauma have defined you—that the shame, cravings, or emotional weight will always be there, shaping your choices and relationships. Maybe you’ve tried to change before, only to feel like you’ve failed or that the past has too strong of a hold on you. But healing isn’t about erasing the past—it’s about learning to move forward in a way where it no longer controls you.

No matter how long you’ve relied on substances to cope, you are not broken. The ways you’ve survived make sense—they helped you get this far. But survival isn’t the same as truly living. You deserve to feel safe in your own body, to trust yourself, and to build a life where relief doesn’t come at the cost of your well-being. Healing is possible—not just for others, but for you.

You don’t have to do this alone. When you’re ready, we’re here.

Your past doesn’t get to define your future—you do. Let’s take the next step together.

Schedule Free Consultation Call

QUESTIONS? WE'VE GOT ANSWERS.

Frequently asked questions-

Is Creating Space Therapy Better Than AI Therapy Chatbots?

While AI chatbots may be able to provide basic support, they can't replace the deep, human connection that's essential for true healing. At Creating Space Therapy, our certified therapists in Batavia and Naperville, as well as through online telehealth, offer personalized care tailored to your unique needs. We understand the complexities of human emotions and experiences, something that AI simply cannot replicate. Our therapists provide empathy, understanding, and adaptive care that evolves with you, ensuring that you receive the support you need at every step of your healing journey. With us, you're not just interacting with a program—you’re connecting with someone who genuinely cares about your well-being.
What types of therapy do you offer?

At Creating Space Therapy, we offer a wide range of therapeutic services, including grief counseling, trauma therapy, EMDR therapy, bibliotherapy, and specialized therapy for children and teens. Our certified therapists in Batavia, Naperville, and online are skilled in various modalities, ensuring that we can tailor our approach to meet your specific needs.
How do I know which therapist is right for me?

Choosing the right therapist is a personal decision, and we’re here to help you find the best fit. Our team of certified therapists brings a diverse set of skills and specialties. Whether you’re seeking help with grief, trauma, or other challenges, we’ll guide you to the therapist whose expertise aligns with your needs, whether in Batavia, Naperville, or online.
What should I expect during my first therapy session?

Your first therapy session at Creating Space Therapy is an opportunity to begin building a trusting relationship with your therapist. We’ll discuss your goals, concerns, and what you hope to achieve through therapy. Our aim is to create a comfortable, safe space where you feel heard and supported, whether you’re visiting our Batavia or Naperville offices or connecting through online telehealth.
Is online therapy as effective as in-person therapy?

Yes, online therapy can be just as effective as in-person therapy. At Creating Space Therapy, our online telehealth sessions are designed to provide the same level of care and connection as face-to-face meetings. Our certified therapists are experienced in delivering compassionate, high-quality therapy through secure video sessions, ensuring you receive the support you need, no matter where you are in Illinois.