Excessive drinking, substance use disorder, drugs, gambling, sexual acting out, addiction – however you say it – people have an opinion. The most common opinion is that substance use and other behavioral addiction is bad. Even further, those around us who struggle with these things are seen as bad people. We do not believe that. 

The consequences of these behaviors are often great, and even the person struggling does not like the outcome. Continual, cyclical use of substances or behaviors often results in isolation, depression, health problems, the loss of a job, legal problems, and shortened life spans. We are here to help in non-shaming, proactive, and hopeful ways.

The IMF Approach

At IMF Counseling, we take a non-pathologizing approach to drug and alcohol use and other behaviors people often struggle to control. These can include 

  • Watching pornography
  • Shopping
  • Video gaming
  • Compulsive working 

We do not assume there is something wrong with you, or you have to label yourself as an addict or an alcoholic to make changes in your life. Instead, we understand that alcohol, drugs, and other behaviors play an important role in your or your loved one’s life. 

We understand that these behaviors serve a function we can help you address.


Our therapists are trained in and use a variety of approaches, including:

  • Motivational Enhancement Therapy
  • Community Reinforcement and Family Training (CRAFT)
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Relapse Prevention
  • Internal Family Systems therapy for treating co-occurring trauma
  • Interpersonal and psychodynamic approaches

Our substance use treatment is multi-dimensional, interactive, and collaborative. You, the client, have autonomy in determining what you want your recovery to look like, and we come alongside you with tools, empathy, reflection, and challenges to help move you closer to your goals. We support and utilize a harm-reduction approach to treatment. We are not focused on stopping you from getting high. Instead, we are focused on stopping you from getting hurt. You may decide to abstain from drugs and alcohol, or you may have different goals.

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Additional Support Options

Our approach is an alternative to traditional 12-step based treatment. However, we support the local recovery community and have ties to 12-step programs in Columbia and Mid-Missouri. We are happy to facilitate your engagement in this community, and we often refer clients to local groups. 

Furthermore, if you need additional support, such as medication, residential treatment, or supportive housing options, we have relationships with local and national organizations to help you get additional treatment. 

You will find comfort and acceptance from your therapist and the staff at IMF Counseling as you work through substance use and behavioral dependence challenges. 

Find Support Today

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