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Headshot of Lou Downs, LISAC

Lou Downs

Therapist(She/Hers/Her)
5 years of experience
  • Virtual & in-person
  • Substance use / addiction, Stress management, Women's issues, Identity issues, Trauma
  • Individual therapy

Great to meet you!

If you’re struggling with substance use and feeling stuck in the same patterns—telling yourself you should be able to handle it, but nothing seems to change—you’re not alone. Many of the people I work with are tired of cycling between motivation and frustration, worried about the impact on their relationships, work, or sense of control. You may not be sure whether it’s “bad enough” to seek help, but you know something needs to shift.

My name is Lou. I’m an independently licensed addiction counselor in Arizona with over four years of experience helping adults navigate substance use, recovery, and relapse prevention. My approach is evidence-based, practical, and collaborative. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and trauma-informed care to help clients understand what’s driving their behavior and build tools they can actually use in real life.

My approach to therapy

My style is down-to-earth, honest, and supportive. I won’t shame or lecture you—but I will help you challenge habits that keep you stuck while offering steady support along the way. I believe people are more than their struggles, and meaningful change is possible with the right guidance.

On a personal note, I value authenticity and balance, and I bring that same grounded approach into my work. If you’re looking for addiction therapy in Arizona that’s evidence-based, respectful, and focused on real change, I invite you to reach out. You don’t have to have everything figured out—just a willingness to start.

What you can expect from me

In the first session, we’ll talk openly about what’s been going on, what concerns you most, and what you want to change. Together, we’ll begin identifying patterns, strengths, and next steps that feel realistic for your life.

About me

  • I identify as
    Black or African descent, Woman
  • My style is
    Affirming, Empowering, Solution Oriented

Qualification and insurance

  • Years of experience
    5 years of experience
  • Training
    Not specified
  • License type
    LIAC - Licensed Independent Addiction Counselor (Arizona)
  • Licensed in
  • Insurance accepted
    Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona, Carelon Behavioral Health, Cigna

Cost

Care details

  • Top specialties
    Substance use / addiction, Stress management, Women's issues, Identity issues, Trauma
  • More specialties
  • Therapy methods
    Motivational Interviewing, Behavioral, Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Trauma Focused CBT, Narrative Therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT)
  • Care types
    Individual therapy
  • Ages served
    Seniors, Adolescents, Adults
  • Languages
    English
  • Location
    250 West 24th Street m
    Yuma, AZ 85364