08/29/2025
Substance Abuse Assessments and Counseling Services in North Carolina
Compassionate Care | Professional Assessments | Personalized Recovery
Understanding Substance Abuse
Substance abuse affects not only the individual but also families, workplaces, and entire communities. Whether related to alcohol, prescription medications, or illicit drugs, misuse can lead to strained relationships, legal issues, financial hardship, and serious health concerns. Recognizing the problem is often the first step toward healing, but taking action through a professional substance abuse assessment and counseling is what opens the door to lasting recovery.
At Dharma Counseling Services, located in Durham, North Carolina, we are committed to providing compassionate, judgment-free, and evidence-based support for individuals and families facing challenges with substance use.
What Is a Substance Abuse Assessment?
A substance abuse assessment is a professional evaluation that helps determine the severity of alcohol or drug use, identify any co-occurring mental health conditions, and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
Our assessments are:
Court-approved for DWI/DUI and other legal requirements
Accepted by North Carolina DHHS standards
Conducted by licensed clinicians (LCMHC, LCAS)
Confidential and non-judgmental
Personalized to your unique history and needs
Whether you are completing an assessment due to a legal mandate (DWI, probation, or workplace requirements) or are voluntarily seeking help, our goal is to support you with clarity, honesty, and respect.
Counseling Services at Dharma Counseling
An assessment is the first step—but counseling provides the ongoing support needed for recovery. At Dharma Counseling Services, we offer:
1. Individual Counseling
One-on-one sessions provide a safe and confidential space to explore the underlying causes of substance use, develop healthier coping strategies, and set recovery goals.
2. Group Counseling
Recovery thrives in community. Group sessions foster connection, accountability, and shared learning experiences that help clients realize they are not alone in their struggles.
3. DWI and Court-Mandated Programs
We specialize in DWI assessments and education programs, ensuring clients meet North Carolina state requirements while also gaining meaningful tools to prevent future incidents.
4. Dual Diagnosis Support
Many individuals experience both substance use and mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, or trauma. Our integrated approach addresses both, leading to stronger, more sustainable recovery outcomes.
5. Relapse Prevention and Aftercare
Recovery doesn’t stop after treatment. We help clients develop personalized relapse prevention plans, connecting them with community resources, support groups, and ongoing counseling.
Why Choose Dharma Counseling Services?
There are many counseling centers, but Dharma Counseling stands out because of our commitment to personalized, ethical, and compassionate care.
✔ Licensed & Experienced Professionals – Over 17 years of experience in mental health and addiction counseling.
✔ Client-Centered Approach – Every client receives individualized care tailored to their needs.
✔ Confidential & Safe Environment – Respect and privacy are at the heart of our practice.
✔ Locally Trusted – Serving Durham, Chapel Hill, Raleigh, and surrounding NC communities.
✔ Comprehensive Services – From first-time assessments to ongoing counseling and relapse prevention, we walk with you through every stage of recovery.
Who We Serve
Our services are open to:
Adults facing substance use concerns
Individuals required to complete a DWI or substance abuse assessment in NC
Clients referred by attorneys, probation officers, or workplaces
Family members seeking guidance and support
Anyone ready to make a positive change in their life
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Do you provide court-approved DWI assessments in North Carolina?
✅ Yes. Dharma Counseling is licensed to provide state-approved DWI assessments that meet North Carolina DHHS requirements.
Q: Is counseling confidential?
✅ Absolutely. Your privacy is protected, and sessions are conducted in a safe, professional environment.
Q: Do you accept insurance?
✅ Yes, we work with major providers including BCBS, Cigna, United, Aetna, MedCost, UMR, and Optum.
Q: Can I do sessions online?
✅ Yes. We provide both in-person and telehealth counseling to fit your needs.
Take the First Step Today
If you or someone you care about is struggling with alcohol or drug use, waiting only makes things harder. The good news is—you don’t have to face this journey alone.
At Dharma Counseling Services, we believe that every person has the capacity for change, growth, and recovery. Whether you need a substance abuse assessment for legal purposes, or you are ready to begin counseling for personal healing, we are here to guide you with compassion, professionalism, and respect.
Please call us at 919-737-8996 or visit our website at
Self-healing is Possible