Substance Use Therapists in Strathmore, AB

Photo of Ava Marie Trecia Somersclarke - Inner Harmony Center for Mental Health, MACP, CCC, Counsellor
Inner Harmony Center for Mental Health
Counsellor, MACP, CCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Strathmore, AB T1P
I care deeply for humans who feel broken or wounded emotionally, relationally, spiritually because of experiences with addiction, substance use, culture, religion and sexual trauma. With a shared commitment towards healing; AND a therapeutic space infused with lovingkindness, mindfulness, safety and restoration, we can make something new and beautiful out of You.
I care deeply for humans who feel broken or wounded emotionally, relationally, spiritually because of experiences with addiction, substance use, culture, religion and sexual trauma. With a shared commitment towards healing; AND a therapeutic space infused with lovingkindness, mindfulness, safety and restoration, we can make something new and beautiful out of You.
(587) 415-1100 View (587) 415-1100
Photo of Kodie A Rederburg, MA, Registered Provisional Psychologist
Kodie A Rederburg
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
Strathmore, AB T1P
I have been working and studying in the field of psychology for over 8 years, and am incredibly passionate about the work I do. I offer individual counselling, as well as couples counselling based in the Gottman methods of marriage and relationships. I have experience supporting clients through a diverse range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, marital struggles, OCD and trauma. I work hard for you, helping you to create treatment goals, and an individualized success plan for your therapy. Please reach out to me if you have any questions, or would like more information about how I can help.
I have been working and studying in the field of psychology for over 8 years, and am incredibly passionate about the work I do. I offer individual counselling, as well as couples counselling based in the Gottman methods of marriage and relationships. I have experience supporting clients through a diverse range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, marital struggles, OCD and trauma. I work hard for you, helping you to create treatment goals, and an individualized success plan for your therapy. Please reach out to me if you have any questions, or would like more information about how I can help.
(587) 848-4470 View (587) 848-4470
Photo of Brit Underhill, MCP, CCC, Psychologist
Brit Underhill
Psychologist, MCP, CCC
Verified Verified
Strathmore, AB T1P
Brittany Underhill is a Registered Psychologist holding a Master’s Degree in Counselling Psychology from Alder University and two bachelor degrees in Psychology and Sociology from Queens University. Having recently moved to Calgary, Brittany has previously worked at a Private Practice in Vancouver working with adults and children experiencing anxiety and depression, as well as an Addiction Counsellor at the Alouette Correctional Centre for Women. She currently holds a counselling position through Alberta Health Services and works part time at Wheatland County Counselling.
Brittany Underhill is a Registered Psychologist holding a Master’s Degree in Counselling Psychology from Alder University and two bachelor degrees in Psychology and Sociology from Queens University. Having recently moved to Calgary, Brittany has previously worked at a Private Practice in Vancouver working with adults and children experiencing anxiety and depression, as well as an Addiction Counsellor at the Alouette Correctional Centre for Women. She currently holds a counselling position through Alberta Health Services and works part time at Wheatland County Counselling.
(587) 851-5575 View (587) 851-5575
Photo of Rachel Dundas - Wheatland County Counselling, RPsych, MSW, CCC, CPT, Psychologist
Wheatland County Counselling
Psychologist, RPsych, MSW, CCC, CPT
Verified Verified
Strathmore, AB T1P
Wheatland County Counselling is a full service counselling practice, with a team of therapists providing support to children, couples, families and adults in the Strathmore and Drumheller areas. Therapists include Registered Psychologists, Provisionally Registered Psychologists, Canadian Certified Counsellors and Masters Level Social Workers all with extensive training in the assessment, treatment, and case consultation needed when working within the larger systems families work, play, and learn. Each therapist offers a specific approach. Visit our website to learn more about each therapist.
Wheatland County Counselling is a full service counselling practice, with a team of therapists providing support to children, couples, families and adults in the Strathmore and Drumheller areas. Therapists include Registered Psychologists, Provisionally Registered Psychologists, Canadian Certified Counsellors and Masters Level Social Workers all with extensive training in the assessment, treatment, and case consultation needed when working within the larger systems families work, play, and learn. Each therapist offers a specific approach. Visit our website to learn more about each therapist.
(833) 600-0027 View (833) 600-0027
Photo of Maureen Speidel, MA, RPsych, Psychologist
Maureen Speidel
Psychologist, MA, RPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Strathmore, AB T1P
I enjoy working with clients who struggle in relationships, marital, family, professional or familial. Having a background in attachment theory I work well with individuals/couples who struggle with depression or anxiety stemming from events and relationships from their early childhood, and find themselves choosing similar relationships now which do not fulfill them. I excel assisting individuals who suspect themselves of struggling with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) either due to a large trauma in their history, or due to several small trauma's. I work with individuals and families aged 3-70, whoever is ready to address their concerns.
I enjoy working with clients who struggle in relationships, marital, family, professional or familial. Having a background in attachment theory I work well with individuals/couples who struggle with depression or anxiety stemming from events and relationships from their early childhood, and find themselves choosing similar relationships now which do not fulfill them. I excel assisting individuals who suspect themselves of struggling with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) either due to a large trauma in their history, or due to several small trauma's. I work with individuals and families aged 3-70, whoever is ready to address their concerns.
(587) 604-6459 View (587) 604-6459
Photo of Jake Sombrutzki, MACP, RCC, Counsellor
Jake Sombrutzki
Counsellor, MACP, RCC
Verified Verified
Strathmore, AB T1P  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with daily life, goals, or your relationship with yourself or others? Do fear, anxiety, low self-worth, setting boundaries, or anger hold you back? I offer a collaborative, non-judgmental approach focused on helping you rediscover your self-worth and innate ability to navigate life's challenges. With a background in addiction treatment and a diverse upbringing, I integrate Eastern philosophy and spirituality into my practice. I presently exclusively offer online sessions while working closely with a dedicated team at Strength Counselling Services.
Are you struggling with daily life, goals, or your relationship with yourself or others? Do fear, anxiety, low self-worth, setting boundaries, or anger hold you back? I offer a collaborative, non-judgmental approach focused on helping you rediscover your self-worth and innate ability to navigate life's challenges. With a background in addiction treatment and a diverse upbringing, I integrate Eastern philosophy and spirituality into my practice. I presently exclusively offer online sessions while working closely with a dedicated team at Strength Counselling Services.
(236) 233-9325 View (236) 233-9325
Photo of Teresa Dawn Sawatzky, MC , RPsych, Psychologist
Teresa Dawn Sawatzky
Psychologist, MC , RPsych
Verified Verified
Strathmore, AB T1P
Are you struggling with issues related to stress, anxiety, depression, conflict in relationships, trauma, grief, career, financial stress or major life changes? There comes a time when we may need some help from a certified professional to cope with many of life’s challenges. I can help by providing the tools, with compassionate guidance, to navigate difficult circumstances, and achieve your dreams and goals in life. I provide clients with a wide range of scientifically driven and effective assessment, treatment and psychological counselling services. I offer empathic, strengths based counselling and seek to empower clients.
Are you struggling with issues related to stress, anxiety, depression, conflict in relationships, trauma, grief, career, financial stress or major life changes? There comes a time when we may need some help from a certified professional to cope with many of life’s challenges. I can help by providing the tools, with compassionate guidance, to navigate difficult circumstances, and achieve your dreams and goals in life. I provide clients with a wide range of scientifically driven and effective assessment, treatment and psychological counselling services. I offer empathic, strengths based counselling and seek to empower clients.
(587) 418-8095 View (587) 418-8095
Photo of Agnes Drysdale, MC:AT, RPsych, Psychologist
Agnes Drysdale
Psychologist, MC:AT, RPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Strathmore, AB T1P
"Change is our only constant." I often find myself saying this to my clients as well as myself when undergoing a sudden change, challenged through a difficult event, or simply trying to navigate the stressors of everyday life. Sometimes it is difficult to manage or adjust to changes on our own and we need additional support. I hope that with my expertise I can walk alongside you to provide support when it is most needed and to help you navigate the emotions, thoughts, behaviors, and stressors that are getting in the way of your wellness.
"Change is our only constant." I often find myself saying this to my clients as well as myself when undergoing a sudden change, challenged through a difficult event, or simply trying to navigate the stressors of everyday life. Sometimes it is difficult to manage or adjust to changes on our own and we need additional support. I hope that with my expertise I can walk alongside you to provide support when it is most needed and to help you navigate the emotions, thoughts, behaviors, and stressors that are getting in the way of your wellness.
(587) 813-6220 View (587) 813-6220
Photo of Anne Hampson - Anne Hampson Equine Therapy , MSW, RSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anne Hampson Equine Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Strathmore, AB T1P
Standing in a field with horses can be so simple, yet very powerful. We can learn so much by just being with, watching, and observing. Horses navigate their nervous systems very naturally and without hesitation. For nervous system regulation they have so much to teach us. Together we practice the principles of polyvagal theory in real time while being in the presence of horses which only makes this learning more powerful. My areas of expertise include working with chronic and neuroplastic pain, addiction, PTSD, anxiety and depressive disorders.
Standing in a field with horses can be so simple, yet very powerful. We can learn so much by just being with, watching, and observing. Horses navigate their nervous systems very naturally and without hesitation. For nervous system regulation they have so much to teach us. Together we practice the principles of polyvagal theory in real time while being in the presence of horses which only makes this learning more powerful. My areas of expertise include working with chronic and neuroplastic pain, addiction, PTSD, anxiety and depressive disorders.
(587) 715-0719 View (587) 715-0719
Photo of Sheryl Singh, MC, Registered Provisional Psychologist
Sheryl Singh
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Strathmore, AB T1P
Hello! I am a Registered Provisional Psychologist with several years of experience in the mental health field. I currently work with adults, teens and children. I believe that strength is a characteristic that resides in all people. It can however, be difficult to see during times of hardship and vulnerability. I am committed to providing a non-judgemental safe space, in which clients feel empowered to make the positive changes needed to live healthy fulfilled lives.
Hello! I am a Registered Provisional Psychologist with several years of experience in the mental health field. I currently work with adults, teens and children. I believe that strength is a characteristic that resides in all people. It can however, be difficult to see during times of hardship and vulnerability. I am committed to providing a non-judgemental safe space, in which clients feel empowered to make the positive changes needed to live healthy fulfilled lives.
(587) 327-9850 View (587) 327-9850

Online Therapists

Photo of Jennifer McIntee-Leinweber, BEd, MA, RPsych, Psychologist
Jennifer McIntee-Leinweber
Psychologist, BEd, MA, RPsych
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Airdrie, AB T4B
Hello! I'm a Registered Psychologist who is passionate about helping children, adolescents, adults and couples be their best selves. If you are experiencing problematic trauma symptoms such as PTSD or C-PTSD, problematic substance use, relationship issues, or struggle with meeting the needs of daily life, therapy may be able to help! Together, we will develop customized goals that meet your needs, develop useful coping strategies, and create some forward momentum to help improve your quality of life.
Hello! I'm a Registered Psychologist who is passionate about helping children, adolescents, adults and couples be their best selves. If you are experiencing problematic trauma symptoms such as PTSD or C-PTSD, problematic substance use, relationship issues, or struggle with meeting the needs of daily life, therapy may be able to help! Together, we will develop customized goals that meet your needs, develop useful coping strategies, and create some forward momentum to help improve your quality of life.
(587) 907-5530 View (587) 907-5530
Photo of Ayen Paul Mabor, MSW, BSW, RSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ayen Paul Mabor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2M
I have worked in various organizations supporting military families, working with patients in acute care dealing with life changing illnesses, marital issues, separation and divorce, anger, court preparation, substance use issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, oppression, grief and loss.
My name is Ayen Mabor, I have over 20 years of experience in the counselling field. I am a registered Social Worker, with a Master’s Degree in Social Work. My approach to counselling is influenced by several theories primarily, Person Centered, Solutions focused, Strength-based approaches, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and I also offer Accelerated Resolution Therapy. My life experiences led me to Social work, and through that, I discovered my love for counselling. Being a Black refugee from South Sudan, has provided me with a unique lens from which I view individuals and social systems.
I have worked in various organizations supporting military families, working with patients in acute care dealing with life changing illnesses, marital issues, separation and divorce, anger, court preparation, substance use issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, oppression, grief and loss.
My name is Ayen Mabor, I have over 20 years of experience in the counselling field. I am a registered Social Worker, with a Master’s Degree in Social Work. My approach to counselling is influenced by several theories primarily, Person Centered, Solutions focused, Strength-based approaches, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and I also offer Accelerated Resolution Therapy. My life experiences led me to Social work, and through that, I discovered my love for counselling. Being a Black refugee from South Sudan, has provided me with a unique lens from which I view individuals and social systems.
(587) 412-5018 View (587) 412-5018
Photo of Dan Biggs, MSW, RSW, BSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dan Biggs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW, BSW
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2E
I have training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, Brief Focused Counselling, Emotionally Focused Therapy, bereavement, trauma and treatment of substance use disorders.
Hello, I am passionate about supporting people in achieving their personal goals and overcoming struggles in their lives. I believe therapy can help people learn new coping skills and utilize their strengths to manage even the most painful challenges. I work to provide therapy that is collaborative, effective, professional and individualized to clients needs. Over, the past 20 years I have worked with adolescents and adults who struggle with borderline personality disorder, substance use disorders, anxiety, depression, trauma related symptoms and psychosis to build their life worth living.
I have training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, Brief Focused Counselling, Emotionally Focused Therapy, bereavement, trauma and treatment of substance use disorders.
Hello, I am passionate about supporting people in achieving their personal goals and overcoming struggles in their lives. I believe therapy can help people learn new coping skills and utilize their strengths to manage even the most painful challenges. I work to provide therapy that is collaborative, effective, professional and individualized to clients needs. Over, the past 20 years I have worked with adolescents and adults who struggle with borderline personality disorder, substance use disorders, anxiety, depression, trauma related symptoms and psychosis to build their life worth living.
(587) 412-2730 View (587) 412-2730
Photo of McKenzie Snyder, MA, RPsych, Psychologist
McKenzie Snyder
Psychologist, MA, RPsych
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T3B
However, I have expertise working with both perpetrators and victims of domestic violence, those struggling with substance use and recovery, and those having difficulty with personality disorder symptoms.
I am a Registered Psychologist who has experience in both inpatient, and outpatient community settings providing individual, couples, family and group services to diverse populations and age ranges. I have extensive training in a number of therapy modalities however, I use an integrative structured approach to counselling mainly incorporating Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy and EMDR. I am also able to complete psycho-educational assessment, social-emotional diagnostic assessments, as well as cognitive and memory assessments.
However, I have expertise working with both perpetrators and victims of domestic violence, those struggling with substance use and recovery, and those having difficulty with personality disorder symptoms.
I am a Registered Psychologist who has experience in both inpatient, and outpatient community settings providing individual, couples, family and group services to diverse populations and age ranges. I have extensive training in a number of therapy modalities however, I use an integrative structured approach to counselling mainly incorporating Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy and EMDR. I am also able to complete psycho-educational assessment, social-emotional diagnostic assessments, as well as cognitive and memory assessments.
(587) 851-5766 View (587) 851-5766
Photo of Derrick Shirley - Shirley Psychological Services Inc, MSc, RPsych, Psychologist
Shirley Psychological Services Inc
Psychologist, MSc, RPsych
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2J
Along with helping clients with issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, substance use and other mental health challenges, much of our therapy work falls into 1 of 5 areas: Parenting Support and Child/Adolescent Therapy • Men's Issues & Mental/Emotional Health • Relationship Health • Career transition and work-related counselling • Separation and Divorce.
Let's face it, life can feel unbearable at times and relationships and parenting are emotionally taxing. If you're reading this and this is your first time working with a psychologist, this is likely not a high moment for you. Rarely do clients start a session with, "My life is great! Things couldn't be better!" The reality is you're struggling, feeling lost and in pain, things are not going well for you or someone you care about, and we have entered the picture somewhere along the way. That you trust a therapist or anyone else enough to connect with you in that struggle is tough to do, and a responsibility we do not take lightly.
Along with helping clients with issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, substance use and other mental health challenges, much of our therapy work falls into 1 of 5 areas: Parenting Support and Child/Adolescent Therapy • Men's Issues & Mental/Emotional Health • Relationship Health • Career transition and work-related counselling • Separation and Divorce.
Let's face it, life can feel unbearable at times and relationships and parenting are emotionally taxing. If you're reading this and this is your first time working with a psychologist, this is likely not a high moment for you. Rarely do clients start a session with, "My life is great! Things couldn't be better!" The reality is you're struggling, feeling lost and in pain, things are not going well for you or someone you care about, and we have entered the picture somewhere along the way. That you trust a therapist or anyone else enough to connect with you in that struggle is tough to do, and a responsibility we do not take lightly.
(825) 251-9542 View (825) 251-9542
Photo of Madison Cruickshank, MA, RP, CCC, Registered Psychotherapist
Madison Cruickshank
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, CCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T3B  (Online Only)
I trust that every person is the expert of their own life and experiences. I hold the belief that everyone has what they need, within themselves, to heal, and enjoy walking alongside my clients to help them access these strengths and resources. I strive to establish trusting and collaborative relationships that create a safe space for clients to explore and grow. With over a decade of experience, I’ve worked with a wide range of issues, including trauma, substance use, relationship struggles, and mental health concerns.
I trust that every person is the expert of their own life and experiences. I hold the belief that everyone has what they need, within themselves, to heal, and enjoy walking alongside my clients to help them access these strengths and resources. I strive to establish trusting and collaborative relationships that create a safe space for clients to explore and grow. With over a decade of experience, I’ve worked with a wide range of issues, including trauma, substance use, relationship struggles, and mental health concerns.
(587) 871-8418 View (587) 871-8418
Photo of Dineke Tolkamp, MA, Psychologist
Dineke Tolkamp
Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2P  (Online Only)
Hi! I am presently accepting new clients for online therapy. I have worked with predominantly with teens and adults with a variety of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, self-esteem, anger, stress, substance use, emotion regulation, communication, life transitions, and relationship struggles. I have worked many different kinds of people around the world and in Canada and this has shown me the importance of considering every part of an individual's identity in therapy.
Hi! I am presently accepting new clients for online therapy. I have worked with predominantly with teens and adults with a variety of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, self-esteem, anger, stress, substance use, emotion regulation, communication, life transitions, and relationship struggles. I have worked many different kinds of people around the world and in Canada and this has shown me the importance of considering every part of an individual's identity in therapy.
(587) 907-5012 View (587) 907-5012
Photo of Sarah O'Brien, MA, Psychologist
Sarah O'Brien
Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T3H
Specialties: ADHD, and Adult ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, PTSD and trauma (adult single event or multiple events trauma, childhood trauma), Neurodivergence, Substance use difficulties, Pain and sleep management, Mood and Personality disorders.
Sarah has been working in private practice for the past several years. Completing her clinical residency in a community health setting, and graduating with a Masters in Counselling Psychology in 2018. Sarah has worked with individuals from a variety of different backgrounds. With concerns ranging from trauma, (PTSD and c-PTSD), to depression, and anxiety. She has also helped clients with life transitions, helping them to develop effective communication strategies. Sarah loves to travel, seeing new places, and returning to some of her favorites. She enjoys a good comedy, especially Chris Farley, and LOVES horror movies.
Specialties: ADHD, and Adult ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, PTSD and trauma (adult single event or multiple events trauma, childhood trauma), Neurodivergence, Substance use difficulties, Pain and sleep management, Mood and Personality disorders.
Sarah has been working in private practice for the past several years. Completing her clinical residency in a community health setting, and graduating with a Masters in Counselling Psychology in 2018. Sarah has worked with individuals from a variety of different backgrounds. With concerns ranging from trauma, (PTSD and c-PTSD), to depression, and anxiety. She has also helped clients with life transitions, helping them to develop effective communication strategies. Sarah loves to travel, seeing new places, and returning to some of her favorites. She enjoys a good comedy, especially Chris Farley, and LOVES horror movies.
(825) 606-0856 View (825) 606-0856
Photo of Cody Farrell, MSW, RSW, BA, Registered Social Worker
Cody Farrell
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, BA
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2R  (Online Only)
Specializing in addiction/ substance use, LGBTQ+ identities, anxiety, depression and self discovery, I would be happy to work with you.
I work with individuals who are looking to better understand their personal and social identity. Emphasis in the counselling field is often given to learning new thought patterns and coping skills. While I do this in my practice and find it effective, I also discuss the concept of 'unlearning' and its importance for growth, allowing us to create a new foundation which is centred on self-awareness. When we unlearn these 'autopilot' ways of responding to situations, we can create a reality where we are actively in the driver’s seat to create the lifestyle and connections that we find authentic, meaningful and long-lasting.
Specializing in addiction/ substance use, LGBTQ+ identities, anxiety, depression and self discovery, I would be happy to work with you.
I work with individuals who are looking to better understand their personal and social identity. Emphasis in the counselling field is often given to learning new thought patterns and coping skills. While I do this in my practice and find it effective, I also discuss the concept of 'unlearning' and its importance for growth, allowing us to create a new foundation which is centred on self-awareness. When we unlearn these 'autopilot' ways of responding to situations, we can create a reality where we are actively in the driver’s seat to create the lifestyle and connections that we find authentic, meaningful and long-lasting.
(587) 713-8239 View (587) 713-8239
Photo of Dr. Courtney Dookie, PsyD, RPsych, Psychologist
Dr. Courtney Dookie
Psychologist, PsyD, RPsych
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T3H
I am a Registered clinical Psychologist providing neuropsychological assessments, psychoeducational assessments, psychological assessments and psychotherapy. I conduct assessments for ADHD, Learning disabilities, Giftedness, Autism, TBI, Dementia, and Mental illness. Working with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, developmental trauma disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, substance use, borderline personality disorder, ADHD, and marital challenges. I am trained in the following areas, CBT, motivational interviewing, cognitive processing, dialectical behavioural therapy, solution focus therapy, and family therapy.
I am a Registered clinical Psychologist providing neuropsychological assessments, psychoeducational assessments, psychological assessments and psychotherapy. I conduct assessments for ADHD, Learning disabilities, Giftedness, Autism, TBI, Dementia, and Mental illness. Working with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, developmental trauma disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, substance use, borderline personality disorder, ADHD, and marital challenges. I am trained in the following areas, CBT, motivational interviewing, cognitive processing, dialectical behavioural therapy, solution focus therapy, and family therapy.
(587) 604-0817 View (587) 604-0817

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Substance Use Counsellors

How do substance and drug recovery or rehabilitation programs work?

In inpatient programs, individuals live in a facility with other clients in recovery; in outpatient programs, individuals reside at home. These facilities are staffed with healthcare professionals including physicians, nurses, psychologists, counsellors, and psychotherapists. Staff often also includes people who have recovered themselves, serving as mentors and guides. These programs may use abstinence, harm reduction, detoxification, psychotherapy, and other methods.

How do 12-step programs combined with psychotherapy work?

Members of 12-step programs help each other reach abstinence and work to maintain it. These programs promote complete change in the individual’s emotional, mental, physical, and even spiritual perspectives. Some programs require that new members attend 90 meetings in 90 days. Many people do attend these programs in conjunction with their work in psychotherapy; the combination of therapy along with 12-step can be extremely effective.

How does harm reduction combined with psychotherapy work?

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, harm reduction prevents death, injury, disease, overdose, and substance misuse. People who choose harm reduction for substance use reduce the amount of drugs they consume. It is not abstinence-based like a 12-step program, but combining harm reduction with psychotherapy proves to be effective for many people.

Are there specific medications for substance and drug use?

There are medications approved to treat substance use disorder—such as buprenorphine, methadone, naltrexone, and acamprosate. These medications do help people cope with substance use as well as avoid the problem of relapse. Naltrexone can help reduce cravings, methadone is an opioid medication used to treat severe pain, and acamprosate may help ease symptoms like poor sleep and anxious feelings.