Amber Varner (Amber Dawn Horizons Counseling & Wellness LLC)

Life with substance use and mental health challenges feels heavy and chaotic, with emotions that swing from numbness to overwhelm. Anxiety, depression, trauma, or shame may sit beneath the surface while substances have become a way to cope, escape, or survive the day. There may be guilt about use, fear of stopping, or frustration with treatment that never addressed the whole picture. Feeling judged, misunderstood, or labeled instead of helped has left trust shaken. The pain comes from wanting relief and stability, but not knowing how to quiet the mind, regulate emotions, or break patterns that no longer feel sustainable. My approach to therapy is integrative, trauma-informed, and deeply client-centered. I believe healing begins when someone feels truly seen, supported, and understood. I meet you exactly where they are - without judgement or pressure - and tailor treatment to their goals, readiness, and lived experience. I specialize in dual diagnosis care, meaning I treat mental health concerns and substance use together rather than separately. I use an integrative approach using CBT, DBT, ACT, and Mindfulness. CBT helps identify and change unhelpful thoughts and behaviors that fuel both substance use and mental health symptoms. DBT builds emotional regulation and distress-tolerance skills. ACT supports values-based choices. Mindfulness increases awareness of urges and emotions, helping you respond with intention instead of reacting. I work within harm-reduction or abstinence-based frameworks depending on what is most supportive based on your goals. My style is direct yet compassionate. Together, we focus on insight, practical coping skills, and long-term change - helping you feel steadier, more empowered, and better equipped to move toward a life that aligns with what matters most to you. Taking the first step can feel overwhelming, especially after trying to manage mental health and substance use on your own. Scheduling help shouldn't add more stress. Use the booking link to choose a time that works or call directly for support walking through the process together. You don't have to figure this out alone - help is here when you're ready.