Drug Abuse Therapists in Saint Catharines, ON
![Photo of Kyle Finlay, MSEd, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/77a9a8db-f5c7-412d-902c-aedf2d1ec490/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kyle Finlay
Registered Psychotherapist, MSEd, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Catharines, ON L2N
Hello! I’m Kyle, a Registered Psychotherapist. I feel that with the right connection and support, anyone can make lasting changes to issues that hold them back. For the past 13 years, I have been working on specialties and have successfully helped individuals improve their lives. My style of therapy focuses on creating an environment allowing individuals to feel comfortable regardless of the issue being discussed. I aim to be a person you can trust and confide in. Together, we will work towards creating and achieving goals that improve your quality of life.
Hello! I’m Kyle, a Registered Psychotherapist. I feel that with the right connection and support, anyone can make lasting changes to issues that hold them back. For the past 13 years, I have been working on specialties and have successfully helped individuals improve their lives. My style of therapy focuses on creating an environment allowing individuals to feel comfortable regardless of the issue being discussed. I aim to be a person you can trust and confide in. Together, we will work towards creating and achieving goals that improve your quality of life.
![Photo of Pamela Giarrizzo, RP, BA, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a102072c-bb14-48d9-a6ce-4eebe328c21d/1/320x400.png)
Pamela Giarrizzo
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Catharines, ON L2R (Online Only)
It can be a moving experience, to be truly heard and understood. These days, with all of life's distractions, sitting with someone for an hour, who is actively listening and interested in what you have to say can take getting used to! With therapy, we begin with where you are today. I meet you where you are at and we work together on what you need to feel better in your inner and outer world. I support folks who are struggling with grief, anxiety, depression, anger, codependency, relationship issues, sexuality, trauma, or spirituality. I am here to offer acceptance, curiosity, and a new perspective on what feels stuck in your life.
It can be a moving experience, to be truly heard and understood. These days, with all of life's distractions, sitting with someone for an hour, who is actively listening and interested in what you have to say can take getting used to! With therapy, we begin with where you are today. I meet you where you are at and we work together on what you need to feel better in your inner and outer world. I support folks who are struggling with grief, anxiety, depression, anger, codependency, relationship issues, sexuality, trauma, or spirituality. I am here to offer acceptance, curiosity, and a new perspective on what feels stuck in your life.
![Photo of Theresa McAdam - Magnolia Counselling Centre Niagara , MSW , RSW, EMDR, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/965d8ebf-c045-4070-97a8-1fb427b310d3/1/320x400.png)
Magnolia Counselling Centre Niagara
Registered Social Worker, MSW , RSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Saint Catharines, ON L2R (Online Only)
Theresa McAdam is Registered Social Worker within Ontario with almost 20 years of experience working with individuals dealing with trauma and mental health. Theresa specializes in the areas of trauma; domestic violence (for men & women); family abuse; anger; depression; anxiety; grief; health challenges; and life transitions. Theresa works with couples and with people experiencing divorce and separation. Theresa also works with first responders and return to work programs. Theresa works alongside her clients to provide education, therapeutic support, and empowerment as they work through their emotional challenges.
Theresa McAdam is Registered Social Worker within Ontario with almost 20 years of experience working with individuals dealing with trauma and mental health. Theresa specializes in the areas of trauma; domestic violence (for men & women); family abuse; anger; depression; anxiety; grief; health challenges; and life transitions. Theresa works with couples and with people experiencing divorce and separation. Theresa also works with first responders and return to work programs. Theresa works alongside her clients to provide education, therapeutic support, and empowerment as they work through their emotional challenges.
![Photo of Cassandra Gordon, MA, RSW, RP, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b378ac70-7209-4c69-b586-d8be2734090a/4/320x400.jpeg)
Do you suffer from intense emotions that you can’t seem to get under control? Maybe it feels like constantly being bombarded with intrusive thoughts or images that you just can’t get out of your head. Maybe you feel like no one really knows you or that you’ve never fully belonged. Maybe you work so hard every day to portray like everything is together but in the back of your mind there an insidious worry that things might just fall apart at any moment. Wherever you are at right now, I will meet you there and work with you to create a treatment plan that allows you to meet your own goals.
Do you suffer from intense emotions that you can’t seem to get under control? Maybe it feels like constantly being bombarded with intrusive thoughts or images that you just can’t get out of your head. Maybe you feel like no one really knows you or that you’ve never fully belonged. Maybe you work so hard every day to portray like everything is together but in the back of your mind there an insidious worry that things might just fall apart at any moment. Wherever you are at right now, I will meet you there and work with you to create a treatment plan that allows you to meet your own goals.
![Photo of George Nicolaidi, MEd, RSW, OAMHP, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e3225a38-46d6-4097-82f3-8e68fe8a2cbc/3/320x400.jpeg)
George Nicolaidi
Registered Social Worker, MEd, RSW, OAMHP
Verified Verified
Saint Catharines, ON L2R
Coming to the realization that reaching out for help is necessary, can be both cathartic and scary. Choosing a counsellor also has its challenges of being the right one. A positive therapeutic bond,or fit with a counsellor,can affect the outcome of the experience. It has been my privilege to help thousands of individuals, couples and groups throughout my lengthy career of 33+ years in Child Welfare, private practise and university settings. I have learned that although we share human experiences our uniqueness sets us apart from others. I treat my clients respectfully, with care and unconditional positive regard and advocacy.
Coming to the realization that reaching out for help is necessary, can be both cathartic and scary. Choosing a counsellor also has its challenges of being the right one. A positive therapeutic bond,or fit with a counsellor,can affect the outcome of the experience. It has been my privilege to help thousands of individuals, couples and groups throughout my lengthy career of 33+ years in Child Welfare, private practise and university settings. I have learned that although we share human experiences our uniqueness sets us apart from others. I treat my clients respectfully, with care and unconditional positive regard and advocacy.
![Photo of Andrew Dair McCartney, BA, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1092c921-801b-4cb2-9a6a-01945f44fd01/1/320x400.jpeg)
Andrew Dair McCartney
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MACP
Verified Verified
Saint Catharines, ON L2R
I am looking to work with clients who are neurodiverse or have struggled with learning disabilities. I wish to assist clients in navigating the variables that come with these challenges and work collaboratively with them to reach their goals.
I am looking to work with clients who are neurodiverse or have struggled with learning disabilities. I wish to assist clients in navigating the variables that come with these challenges and work collaboratively with them to reach their goals.
![Photo of Trish Muir - Trish Muir Counselling & Consulting, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44e8e966-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Trish Muir Counselling & Consulting
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Catharines, ON L2N (Online Only)
You may be unsure if sharing your story with a therapist will create the positive change you need. However, if you met & even surpassed your expectations, you would likely feel well-served by the interaction. I am here to help you do just that in a safe environment. I specialize in helping individuals obtain a DISTINCT sense of RELIEF from what distresses them. My strongest experience is with STRESS related issues manifesting in ANXIETY, Depression, OCD & Eating Disorders. I also work well with those dealing with FEAR, Anger, PANIC, Addictions, Grief, Physical Health (cancer etc.) & more. Check out my YOUTUBE channel MIND BOSS!
You may be unsure if sharing your story with a therapist will create the positive change you need. However, if you met & even surpassed your expectations, you would likely feel well-served by the interaction. I am here to help you do just that in a safe environment. I specialize in helping individuals obtain a DISTINCT sense of RELIEF from what distresses them. My strongest experience is with STRESS related issues manifesting in ANXIETY, Depression, OCD & Eating Disorders. I also work well with those dealing with FEAR, Anger, PANIC, Addictions, Grief, Physical Health (cancer etc.) & more. Check out my YOUTUBE channel MIND BOSS!
![Photo of K Dawn Griffith - The Family Enhancement Centre, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f10a59c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
The Family Enhancement Centre
Registered Social Worker
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Catharines, ON L2W
The Family Enhancement Centre is a full service counselling centre. We work with children, youth, adults, couples and families dealing with a variety of issues including: anxiety, depression, marital issues, school issues, grief / loss, panic attacks, post traumatic stress disorder, suicidality, self harm, relationship issues, anger management, separation / divorce, blended families, victims of crime, etc.. With multiple registered therapists we personally match your needs with our therapist's skill set, approach and style and we guarantee a good therapeutic match or we will transfer you to another one of our therapists until it is.
The Family Enhancement Centre is a full service counselling centre. We work with children, youth, adults, couples and families dealing with a variety of issues including: anxiety, depression, marital issues, school issues, grief / loss, panic attacks, post traumatic stress disorder, suicidality, self harm, relationship issues, anger management, separation / divorce, blended families, victims of crime, etc.. With multiple registered therapists we personally match your needs with our therapist's skill set, approach and style and we guarantee a good therapeutic match or we will transfer you to another one of our therapists until it is.
![Photo of Kathryn Kovacevich, MA, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5dc35800-2e97-4a6f-b8ca-ea74508c8c57/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kathryn Kovacevich
Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Saint Catharines, ON L2R (Online Only)
PHONE/VIDEO only. Do you overthink? Do you encounter the same experience in your head repetitively, as if the cycle will benefit you in some way? Are you a people-pleaser and are scared of disappointing others? Perhaps you are so hard on yourself that it is difficult to overcome even minor mistakes. You feel so deeply wounded & have been for some time. Trying to increase that self-esteem although continuing to fall short. You often experience self-doubt yet desire to believe in yourself. Let's talk. It isn't easy seeking out support, but you did it. Everyone at some point in life experiences difficulty and hardship.
PHONE/VIDEO only. Do you overthink? Do you encounter the same experience in your head repetitively, as if the cycle will benefit you in some way? Are you a people-pleaser and are scared of disappointing others? Perhaps you are so hard on yourself that it is difficult to overcome even minor mistakes. You feel so deeply wounded & have been for some time. Trying to increase that self-esteem although continuing to fall short. You often experience self-doubt yet desire to believe in yourself. Let's talk. It isn't easy seeking out support, but you did it. Everyone at some point in life experiences difficulty and hardship.
![Photo of Donna L Hepburn, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b62fca18-44ff-4501-a676-7a6b60cc6749/3/320x400.jpeg)
Donna L Hepburn
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Catharines, ON L2R
Now accepting clients in person and on-line. Evening and weekend appointments available. It takes courage to reach out and ask for help, and more importantly to find someone who you can connect with. Feelings of stress, anger, resentment, sadness and fear can feel overwhelming. You don't have to struggle alone. I will meet you where you are and together we will figure out where you want to be and how to get there. As a experienced therapist with over twenty years working in the mental health field, I'm confident working collaboratively we can overcome various challenges you are experiencing.
Now accepting clients in person and on-line. Evening and weekend appointments available. It takes courage to reach out and ask for help, and more importantly to find someone who you can connect with. Feelings of stress, anger, resentment, sadness and fear can feel overwhelming. You don't have to struggle alone. I will meet you where you are and together we will figure out where you want to be and how to get there. As a experienced therapist with over twenty years working in the mental health field, I'm confident working collaboratively we can overcome various challenges you are experiencing.
![Photo of Kimberly Chapman -Counselling And Supervision, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7090d37a-3897-4a84-87a1-ab2d7acfd78a/4/320x400.jpeg)
Kimberly Chapman -Counselling And Supervision
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Saint Catharines, ON L2R
I think of each person’s life as a story and each chapter of each story is unique. Like every great story, our lives are filled with people, experiences, emotions, and perspectives. Some chapters of our stories are more difficult than others and there are times when transitioning from one chapter to the next can be challenging. As a clinician, I am committed to partnering with clients to examine what their story has been, what it has meant for them and what they want the next chapter to be. Over the last 25 years, it has been an honour to help people become the authors of their own lives.
I think of each person’s life as a story and each chapter of each story is unique. Like every great story, our lives are filled with people, experiences, emotions, and perspectives. Some chapters of our stories are more difficult than others and there are times when transitioning from one chapter to the next can be challenging. As a clinician, I am committed to partnering with clients to examine what their story has been, what it has meant for them and what they want the next chapter to be. Over the last 25 years, it has been an honour to help people become the authors of their own lives.
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![Photo of Tylor Friesen, RSSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6abd1fdf-743b-4d27-84f6-4078483ce85a/2/320x400.jpeg)
With 20+ years of experience, Tylor provides unwavering support to individuals living with Mental Health and Addictions. Tylor takes a collaborative approach, formulating a comprehensive plan aimed at achieving desired outcomes while effectively addressing life’s challenges. Tylor can assist in the development of anxiety management skills, interpersonal relationships, crisis intervention, building self-awareness, emotional regulation, gaining self-confidence, or other applicable areas of focus. Tylor’s therapeutic approach is characterized by a nonjudgmental environment to identify the most suitable modalities.
With 20+ years of experience, Tylor provides unwavering support to individuals living with Mental Health and Addictions. Tylor takes a collaborative approach, formulating a comprehensive plan aimed at achieving desired outcomes while effectively addressing life’s challenges. Tylor can assist in the development of anxiety management skills, interpersonal relationships, crisis intervention, building self-awareness, emotional regulation, gaining self-confidence, or other applicable areas of focus. Tylor’s therapeutic approach is characterized by a nonjudgmental environment to identify the most suitable modalities.
![Photo of Hiba Khatkhat - Under The Oaks Self Care Center, MA CMHC, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4daf9919-e9d1-47ea-94cd-56fda11275e8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Under The Oaks Self Care Center
Registered Psychotherapist, MA CMHC, RP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Saint Catharines, ON L2S (Online Only)
Take charge of your health! No more late-night symptom searches or spending time & money in talk therapy that just goes over your symptoms & memories without telling you what to do about them. Our team of Psychotherapists goes beyond the symptoms to treat the root cause of your trauma & deliver long-term healing. We’re Mapping the Way Forward in the Face of PTSD & Trauma, Anxiety, & Depression with a Science-Backed, Clinically - Proven Approach. We get to really know you & dedicate time to understanding your history & your goals.
Take charge of your health! No more late-night symptom searches or spending time & money in talk therapy that just goes over your symptoms & memories without telling you what to do about them. Our team of Psychotherapists goes beyond the symptoms to treat the root cause of your trauma & deliver long-term healing. We’re Mapping the Way Forward in the Face of PTSD & Trauma, Anxiety, & Depression with a Science-Backed, Clinically - Proven Approach. We get to really know you & dedicate time to understanding your history & your goals.
![Photo of Elora Gartley - Nova Phoenix Counselling Services, BA, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4635b019-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nova Phoenix Counselling Services
Registered Social Worker, BA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Catharines, ON L2R
It's not easy to seek out support, and I empathize with your struggles given my own lived experience. I work extensively with trauma, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, addictions, and relationship issues. I specialize in sexual abuse for individuals of all ages, as well as domestic violence. I support members of the LGBTQ+ community as a proud ally. I work with all ages and I would be happy to provide you with the support you deserve.
It's not easy to seek out support, and I empathize with your struggles given my own lived experience. I work extensively with trauma, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, addictions, and relationship issues. I specialize in sexual abuse for individuals of all ages, as well as domestic violence. I support members of the LGBTQ+ community as a proud ally. I work with all ages and I would be happy to provide you with the support you deserve.
![Photo of Ashley White, RP, ACD, BA, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1bd208d7-1cb7-44d1-a4b4-410dbde06a37/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley White
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, ACD, BA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Catharines, ON L2R
Welcome! It takes courage and strength to reach out, and I am so glad that you're here. I am passionate about building a secure, and supportive relationship where you feel safe to identify and explore experiences and core beliefs that may have you feeling 'stuck' in life. I have an eclectic and engaging approach that honours you as the expert in your own life, and as such, focuses on creating an individualized treatment plan. We will utilize modalities (such as IFS and Brainspotting) that empower you to identify and achieve your healing goals, increase your self-awareness, and ultimately support you in overcoming life’s challenges.
Welcome! It takes courage and strength to reach out, and I am so glad that you're here. I am passionate about building a secure, and supportive relationship where you feel safe to identify and explore experiences and core beliefs that may have you feeling 'stuck' in life. I have an eclectic and engaging approach that honours you as the expert in your own life, and as such, focuses on creating an individualized treatment plan. We will utilize modalities (such as IFS and Brainspotting) that empower you to identify and achieve your healing goals, increase your self-awareness, and ultimately support you in overcoming life’s challenges.
![Photo of Ryan Wills, RSSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0bee30b0-e9a3-48ba-868c-8fed3ef1acc3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Born and raised in Niagara, Ryan holds a strong foundation within his community. Having attended Niagara College for Social Service Worker, Ryan has spent his career committed to working with people. Ryan has spent 25+ years working with the Social Services sector and focusing specifically on Mental Health and Addictions. Supporting individuals in reaching their goals, identifying barriers to change and empowering people to take charge of what they want, Ryan can support you throughout your journey. Promoting individual wellness, in addition to recognizing gaps in the system, Ryan can provide guidance and navigation from a non
Born and raised in Niagara, Ryan holds a strong foundation within his community. Having attended Niagara College for Social Service Worker, Ryan has spent his career committed to working with people. Ryan has spent 25+ years working with the Social Services sector and focusing specifically on Mental Health and Addictions. Supporting individuals in reaching their goals, identifying barriers to change and empowering people to take charge of what they want, Ryan can support you throughout your journey. Promoting individual wellness, in addition to recognizing gaps in the system, Ryan can provide guidance and navigation from a non
![Photo of Ryan Andres, RSW, MSW, BSc, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f459761d-fc32-43f9-9f60-cf16f1c9059c/3/320x400.jpeg)
Ryan Andres
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW, BSc
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Saint Catharines, ON L2R
Do you feel stuck? Always thinking of worst-case scenarios, how things "should" be, or only seeing the negative in yourself, others, and the world/future? Struggling with feelings of anxiety, sadness, anger, shame, or hopelessness? Trapped in disappointing relationships? Do you want to make meaningful changes in your life? You don’t have to do it alone. Therapy can be an effective way to make these changes and more. You can learn to see yourself, others, and your future in a new way. I am here to work with you towards your unique needs and goals.
Do you feel stuck? Always thinking of worst-case scenarios, how things "should" be, or only seeing the negative in yourself, others, and the world/future? Struggling with feelings of anxiety, sadness, anger, shame, or hopelessness? Trapped in disappointing relationships? Do you want to make meaningful changes in your life? You don’t have to do it alone. Therapy can be an effective way to make these changes and more. You can learn to see yourself, others, and your future in a new way. I am here to work with you towards your unique needs and goals.
![Photo of Stephanie Smith, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0881ceb7-c3aa-40f6-8043-7b1fd982e6aa/2/320x400.jpeg)
I believe in providing a casual and comfortable atmosphere while remaining professional and productive. My goal is to provide a safe space to listen to your concerns, customize a personalized treatment plan with you, and embark on a journey that is mutually agreed upon to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in your life. I offer personalized psychotherapy to individuals over the age of 18 who are suffering from anxiety, depression, stress, addiction and a number of other mental health concerns.
I believe in providing a casual and comfortable atmosphere while remaining professional and productive. My goal is to provide a safe space to listen to your concerns, customize a personalized treatment plan with you, and embark on a journey that is mutually agreed upon to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in your life. I offer personalized psychotherapy to individuals over the age of 18 who are suffering from anxiety, depression, stress, addiction and a number of other mental health concerns.
![Photo of Meredith Durksen, MA, BA, RYT200, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1e6e6889-8592-4440-be0b-7482132773da/2/320x400.jpeg)
Meredith Durksen
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, BA, RYT200
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Catharines, ON L2R (Online Only)
Do you struggle with feeling disconnected from yourself, your emotions and your needs? Do you feel drained by life’s daily stressors and end up reaching for a glass of wine or using screens and scrolling to manage your irritability and boredom? Have you made promises to cut back on your drinking or make other changes in your life? Deep down inside do you know that this is not the way to live? Now more than ever, women are feeling overwhelmed and are searching outside of themselves for comfort and stress-relief, which results in an increase in unhappiness and dissatisfaction with life.
Do you struggle with feeling disconnected from yourself, your emotions and your needs? Do you feel drained by life’s daily stressors and end up reaching for a glass of wine or using screens and scrolling to manage your irritability and boredom? Have you made promises to cut back on your drinking or make other changes in your life? Deep down inside do you know that this is not the way to live? Now more than ever, women are feeling overwhelmed and are searching outside of themselves for comfort and stress-relief, which results in an increase in unhappiness and dissatisfaction with life.
![Photo of Lina Somma, BA, MA, RP-Q, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e42d15e6-4663-4944-bc31-510564e1a80d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lina Somma
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MA, RP-Q
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Catharines, ON L2R
Currently accepting new clients!- Welcome! Through an integrative approach, I offer a variety of treatment options that aim to help identify, support and change troubling emotions, thoughts and behaviour. I have over 15 year experience working in the field of social and community services. I am experienced in supporting adults with Substance Addictions, Relapse Prevention, Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Healthy Relationships, Distress tolerance, Pain Management, Boundaries, Stress Management, Grief and Loss. Together, we will explore your challenges and work towards making change at a pace that is comfortable with you.
Currently accepting new clients!- Welcome! Through an integrative approach, I offer a variety of treatment options that aim to help identify, support and change troubling emotions, thoughts and behaviour. I have over 15 year experience working in the field of social and community services. I am experienced in supporting adults with Substance Addictions, Relapse Prevention, Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Healthy Relationships, Distress tolerance, Pain Management, Boundaries, Stress Management, Grief and Loss. Together, we will explore your challenges and work towards making change at a pace that is comfortable with you.
See more therapy options for Saint Catharines
Nearby Drug Abuse Counsellors Searches for Saint Catharines
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Drug Abuse 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.