Counseling for High-Functioning Men Struggling With Alcohol, Marijuana, and Compulsive Behaviors
If you’re doing well on paper, in school, at work, or in your responsibilities, but privately struggling with alcohol use, marijuana use, gambling, pornography, or other addictive or compulsive behaviors, addiction counseling can help you understand what’s happening and regain control. I work with college-aged and professional men, typically in their 20s through 50s, who feel stuck between pressure, anxiety, and coping habits that provide short-term relief but lead to long-term frustration, shame, or distance in important relationships. This work isn’t about labeling you or treating you like something is “wrong,” but about identifying patterns, strengthening emotional regulation, and helping you show up more consistently in your work, relationships, and personal life.
Call or Text 828-519-0479 to begin the counseling process
Addiction & Behavioral Counseling for Men
-
In your 20s, 30s, 40s, or 50s and navigating increasing personal or professional pressure
-
In college, graduate school, or a demanding professional role
-
In a romantic relationship experiencing strain, conflict, or emotional distance
-
Feeling mentally overloaded, anxious, or emotionally disconnected
-
Struggling with alcohol abuse, marijuana abuse, or substance use patterns that feel harder to control than expected
-
Relying on coping behaviors such as pornography, gambling, gaming, or excessive screen time to manage stress or emotions
-
Aware that the behavior isn’t helping, but finding that stopping or changing it hasn’t been straightforward
Different Stages of Addiction and Behavioral Patterns
Some clients are navigating academic pressure and uncertainty about the future. Others are balancing demanding careers, long-term relationships, or family responsibilities.
While life circumstances differ, the underlying struggles are often the same:
-
Chronic stress and anxiety
-
Emotional avoidance
-
Difficulty disengaging from coping habits
-
Feeling mentally “checked out” at home
-
Growing relationship tension or disconnection
Counseling focuses on the pattern, not just the behavior.
Understanding Compulsive Behaviors as Coping Strategies
For many high-functioning men, patterns such as alcohol use, marijuana use, pornography, gaming, or other compulsive behaviors develop as ways to manage pressure, expectations, or emotional discomfort. Over time, these coping habits, whether substance-related or behavioral, can interfere with emotional availability, increase shame or self-criticism, reduce focus and motivation, and create distance in relationships. What often begins as an attempt to cope with stress can ultimately make stress feel harder to manage, not easier. Together, we work to understand what the behavior is doing for you, including alcohol or marijuana use, and how to replace it with healthier, more sustainable ways of coping that support long-term stability and connection.
How Addiction and Behavioral Counseling Can Help
Counseling is structured, collaborative, and practical. Areas we often focus on include:
-
Understanding triggers and emotional patterns
-
Strengthening impulse control and regulation skills
-
Reducing anxiety and mental overload
-
Improving emotional presence in relationships
-
Addressing avoidance and escapist coping
-
Building consistency instead of willpower battles
The goal isn’t perfection, it’s clarity, balance, and follow-through.
How Addiction and Substance Use Impact Relationships
Many men seek counseling when they realize their habits are affecting their relationship.
You may relate if:
-
Your partner feels emotionally ignored or disconnected
-
You’re physically present but mentally elsewhere
-
You want to show up better but don’t know how to sustain it
-
Conversations about your behavior lead to defensiveness or shutdown
Counseling helps you develop emotional awareness and responsiveness, not just behavior change, so connection can improve alongside personal growth.
My Approach to Addiction and Behavioral Counseling for Men
I provide individual counseling that is direct, respectful, and grounded in real-world application.
I work best with men who want:
-
Insight without judgment
-
Structure without being micromanaged
-
A space to think clearly and move forward
My background in addiction and compulsive behavior counseling allows me to address patterns early, before they escalate, while keeping the work practical and relevant to your daily life.
A Thoughtful, Non-Judgmental Approach to Addiction and Behavioral Change
Counseling here isn’t about fixing you or pushing change before you’re ready. It’s designed for men in their 20s through 50s who are carrying pressure, from work, relationships, expectations, or responsibility, and want space to slow things down and think more clearly. Many men develop patterns around alcohol use, marijuana use, or other compulsive behaviors as ways of coping with stress, anxiety, or emotional discomfort. Together, we focus on understanding what’s driving those patterns, reducing shame, and exploring change in a way that feels realistic, sustainable, and aligned with the kind of man and life you want to build.
The Overlap Between Substance Use and Compulsive Behaviors
Alcohol use, marijuana use, and other compulsive behaviors often stem from the same underlying pressures, anxiety, emotional avoidance, shame, or difficulty being vulnerable. Many men notice that when one behavior is reduced or stopped, another can quietly take its place if the root drivers aren’t understood. Counseling focuses on the bigger picture, helping you recognize these patterns and build healthier ways of coping so change feels steady, integrated, and sustainable rather than temporary or reactive.
Why Virtual Therapy Can Be So Effective
My own recovery journey began through virtual therapy. It was there that I first experienced real connection, the kind that creates space for honesty, healing, and meaningful change. That experience shaped how I understand therapy today. I’ve seen firsthand that healing doesn’t depend on being in the same room; it depends on connection, trust, and a willingness to show up honestly. Virtual therapy removes barriers while still allowing for depth, presence, and real work to happen.
Group Therapy (Coming Soon)
Group therapy for men navigating compulsive behaviors, emotional regulation, and relationship stress will be offered soon.
Groups will focus on:
-
Accountability and insight
-
Shared experience without shame
-
Practical skill development
-
Support from other high-functioning men
If you’re interested in group options, feel free to ask during your consultation.
Getting Started
Starting counseling doesn’t require certainty, just a willingness to have a conversation. I offer a free consultation to help you decide whether this approach feels like a good fit. From there, we can talk about scheduling, payment options, and what beginning counseling might look like for you.
Questions about insurance coverage or session fees can be reviewed on our Insurance & Fees page.
Looking for DOT SAP services?
If you were referred for a DOT SAP evaluation due to a drug or alcohol violation, please visit our DOT SAP program page for details on that process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Our Blog
David Newson, MS, LCAS, LAC, SAP
LCAS - #29268
LAC - #951
SAP - #174936
828-519-0479 (Call or Text)
davidnewson@threecornerscounselingnc.com
6 am - 8 pm, 7 days a week
