What is Substance Use Disorder (SUD)?

Substance Use Disorder (SUD) is a chronic, relapsing condition that affects not only physical and mental health, but also every domain of life: housing, employment, relationships, and autonomy. At Piphus Case Management, we approach SUD not as a personal failing but as a complex condition requiring compassion, consistency, and coordinated support. We believe in walking with individuals through recovery—not policing them, but partnering with them.

Trauma, Stigma, and Isolation

Many individuals with SUD have experienced trauma, which is often a root cause as well as a barrier to recovery. Stigma and shame compound the issue, creating social isolation and disconnection from care systems. Studies have shown that individuals with SUD report high levels of social rejection and are less likely to access preventive or primary health care (Harris & McElrath, 2012).

At Piphus, we reduce these barriers by meeting people where they are, often literally—whether that’s a shelter, a street corner, or a crisis center. We build trust first. Our care begins with empathy, not judgment.

Housing Instability: A Crisis Within a Crisis

SUD often leads to—or results from—housing instability. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has long advocated for a “Housing First” approach for individuals with SUD, emphasizing that stable housing is a foundational need before recovery can take hold.

Piphus Case Management takes this seriously. We prioritize housing navigation, partner with emergency shelters and transitional housing programs, and assist with rental applications, deposits, and ongoing case coordination. Without a roof overhead, recovery plans rarely take root.

Recovery is Nonlinear: The Role of Harm Reduction

Many traditional approaches to substance use demand abstinence as a precondition for support. Piphus takes a different stance: we support harm reduction strategies because we know recovery is not a straight line. Whether someone is actively using or in long-term sobriety, they deserve dignity, health, and a chance to move forward.

Our team connects clients to MAT (Medication-Assisted Treatment) providers, supports safe use practices where appropriate, and links individuals to evidence-based outpatient and residential programs that align with their goals.

Employment and Purpose: Reintegration with Dignity

The path to stability includes a sense of purpose. For clients with SUD, regaining employment can be a crucial turning point. Research shows that structured daily activity, especially work or volunteer roles, significantly reduces the likelihood of relapse and increases motivation for sustained recovery (Magura et al., 2007).

We provide employment readiness coaching, assist with resume development, and collaborate with workforce development partners who understand recovery timelines and offer second-chance employment opportunities.

Integrated Dual Diagnosis Support

Substance use rarely occurs in isolation. Co-occurring mental health conditions are common, and treating one without the other undermines recovery. Our team includes case managers trained in supporting individuals with dual diagnoses, and we work closely with therapists, psychiatric providers, and peer support specialists to offer integrated, whole-person care.

What Makes Piphus Different

• Low Caseloads, High Impact: Each case manager supports fewer than 20 clients, ensuring real relationships and tailored, high-touch care.
• Provide Crisis Support: Recovery doesn’t clock out—and neither do we. We offer support when it’s needed most.
• Lived Experience: Many of our team members have personal or family experience with recovery. We understand the journey.

Our Promise to Clients

We walk with you, wherever you are in your journey. We don’t demand perfection—we support progress. We believe in second chances—and third, and fourth.