Substance use in any capacity influences an individual’s ability to function day-to-day. Even one-time use increases the risk for addiction, a brain disorder that produces long-lasting physiological and cognitive changes. Such changes can eventually lead to an official diagnosis of substance use disorder, a medical condition that uproots an individual’s lifestyle. Physical and occupational therapist can appropriately address substance use disorder and related factors that contribute to continued drug use (i.e. pain, mental illness, etc.). Of course, physical and occupational therapy services need to call on the assistance of other professionals to facilitate a holistic plan-of-care for patients in order to minimize the risk for relapse. Substance use disorder is not a life choice, but an identifiable condition that can be effectively treated. PTs and OTs who take a vested interest in learning about and using interventions for this population, can help an affected individual break the cycle and move on with a happy and productive life. This course will describe the criteria for substance use disorders and its impact on functionality. Additionally, this course will investigate treatment approaches used by physical and occupational therapists who work with patients with substance use disorder.