Substance Use Therapists in Ottawa, ON

Photo of Natalie Séguin, MA, Registered Psychotherapist
Natalie Séguin
Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1K
If you are struggling, whether it be with mental illness(es); loneliness; feeling stuck; not knowing who you are, want you want, or why you are here; out of control thoughts, emotions, behaviours, and/or substance use; relationship issues; or if life is just really hard right now.
I believe the human experience is meant to be filled with joy and ease, along with some opportunities for growth, sometimes called challenges. Life can definitely become very challenging and everyone needs help along the way. I believe that when we can connect to our innermost selves, accept life’s challenges with grace, and treat ourselves and others with compassion and care, we can all live rich, meaningful lives. I know that we can and do recover from grief, mental illness, addiction, trauma, and all the hurts that life can throw at us.
If you are struggling, whether it be with mental illness(es); loneliness; feeling stuck; not knowing who you are, want you want, or why you are here; out of control thoughts, emotions, behaviours, and/or substance use; relationship issues; or if life is just really hard right now.
I believe the human experience is meant to be filled with joy and ease, along with some opportunities for growth, sometimes called challenges. Life can definitely become very challenging and everyone needs help along the way. I believe that when we can connect to our innermost selves, accept life’s challenges with grace, and treat ourselves and others with compassion and care, we can all live rich, meaningful lives. I know that we can and do recover from grief, mental illness, addiction, trauma, and all the hurts that life can throw at us.
(343) 312-5855 View (343) 312-5855
Photo of Katrina Hutchingame, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Katrina Hutchingame
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1N  (Online Only)
I work with people that have challenges with Substance Use, Trauma, Relational issues, Sex and Sexuality.
I am a trauma therapist who specializes in eating disorders and addictions. I am frequently taken by the amount of pain and suffering in the world, I have learned that through these moments we can find the most growth, strength, and beauty. Often we can get stuck in-between these painful moments and a new way of being, That's often what brings people to therapy. Our work together may be a journey to help you get unstuck or out of the place of crisis and to find a sense of safety. I feel it is a privilege to be able to be a part of someone's journey and be able to walk along beside them.
I work with people that have challenges with Substance Use, Trauma, Relational issues, Sex and Sexuality.
I am a trauma therapist who specializes in eating disorders and addictions. I am frequently taken by the amount of pain and suffering in the world, I have learned that through these moments we can find the most growth, strength, and beauty. Often we can get stuck in-between these painful moments and a new way of being, That's often what brings people to therapy. Our work together may be a journey to help you get unstuck or out of the place of crisis and to find a sense of safety. I feel it is a privilege to be able to be a part of someone's journey and be able to walk along beside them.
(613) 699-3396 View (613) 699-3396
Photo of Natalie Guenette, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Natalie Guenette
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2P
Since 2019, I have been providing psychotherapy services to adults in individual therapy. I work with individuals struggling with relationship, self-esteem, substance use/abuse, anxiety, depression, and trauma issues, and with clients who are working through sexual orientation and gender-related issues. I recognize that it takes courage to seek help and to be vulnerable. I aim at working in collaboration with you to build a trusting therapeutic alliance and reach your therapeutic goals. I support my clients to develop a more secure, resilient self and strengthen relationships.
Since 2019, I have been providing psychotherapy services to adults in individual therapy. I work with individuals struggling with relationship, self-esteem, substance use/abuse, anxiety, depression, and trauma issues, and with clients who are working through sexual orientation and gender-related issues. I recognize that it takes courage to seek help and to be vulnerable. I aim at working in collaboration with you to build a trusting therapeutic alliance and reach your therapeutic goals. I support my clients to develop a more secure, resilient self and strengthen relationships.
(613) 604-0470 View (613) 604-0470
Photo of G. Jeffory Lucas, RP, CCAC, ICADC, CCTACP, Drug & Alcohol Counsellor
G. Jeffory Lucas
Drug & Alcohol Counsellor, RP, CCAC, ICADC, CCTACP
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2P
Is it time for you, or someone you know, to finally 'Get Real', in their lives? At 'Get Real', Addiction Counselling, you will find an accredited, experienced and caring professional. The primary focus is comprehensive therapy for substance use or addiction, including behavioural problems and related con-current disorders such as ADHD, Anxiety & Depression. Clients include individuals and families struggling with the effect of substance abuse / addiction(s) on their lives. I am a Ontario Registered Psychotherapist, and hold both Canadian & American International Addiction Counselling Certificates.
Is it time for you, or someone you know, to finally 'Get Real', in their lives? At 'Get Real', Addiction Counselling, you will find an accredited, experienced and caring professional. The primary focus is comprehensive therapy for substance use or addiction, including behavioural problems and related con-current disorders such as ADHD, Anxiety & Depression. Clients include individuals and families struggling with the effect of substance abuse / addiction(s) on their lives. I am a Ontario Registered Psychotherapist, and hold both Canadian & American International Addiction Counselling Certificates.
(613) 704-4101 View (613) 704-4101
Photo of Wendy Nuttall, BA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Wendy Nuttall
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, RP
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2E
If you are concerned with your teen's - or another loved one's - substance use, I provide education, early intervention or treatment for dependence.
If you've been struggling with your emotions, and have difficulty coping, I can help. Substance abuse, mood disorders, or BPD can impact your relationships and the way you view the world. I specialize in addiction, BPD, depression, emotion regulation problems. I have more than 25 years of experience with these, as well as anxiety and internet overuse. My approaches include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy and Motivational Interviewing. Together we can work toward your mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being.
If you are concerned with your teen's - or another loved one's - substance use, I provide education, early intervention or treatment for dependence.
If you've been struggling with your emotions, and have difficulty coping, I can help. Substance abuse, mood disorders, or BPD can impact your relationships and the way you view the world. I specialize in addiction, BPD, depression, emotion regulation problems. I have more than 25 years of experience with these, as well as anxiety and internet overuse. My approaches include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy and Motivational Interviewing. Together we can work toward your mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being.
(343) 306-4547 View (343) 306-4547
Photo of Autumn Legue, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Autumn Legue
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2P
I offer couples and individual counselling to youth (12+) and adults experiencing struggles with their mental health related to substance use, concurrent disorders, emotional regulation, stress, interpersonal challenges, anxiety, depression, and self-esteem/self-confidence. I will support you by working with you to tailor treatment that is reflective of your individual goals and needs. I am motivated to help clients reach their goals, increase personal insight, recognize their strengths and resilience to overcome their challenges, and to develop coping skills that will help facilitate positive change in their wellness journey,
I offer couples and individual counselling to youth (12+) and adults experiencing struggles with their mental health related to substance use, concurrent disorders, emotional regulation, stress, interpersonal challenges, anxiety, depression, and self-esteem/self-confidence. I will support you by working with you to tailor treatment that is reflective of your individual goals and needs. I am motivated to help clients reach their goals, increase personal insight, recognize their strengths and resilience to overcome their challenges, and to develop coping skills that will help facilitate positive change in their wellness journey,
(343) 800-0182 View (343) 800-0182
Photo of Amanda Neilson, CYW, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Amanda Neilson
Registered Social Worker, CYW, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1Y
Providing virtual sessions for folks across Ontario and in person or virtual sessions for Ottawa folks. For over 20 years, I have specialized in treating people with problematic substance use and substance use disorders. I work within a compassionate, collaborative, and trauma-informed approach. The right way to make meaningful change is the way that works best for you. I'm here to work with you on finding that way.
Providing virtual sessions for folks across Ontario and in person or virtual sessions for Ottawa folks. For over 20 years, I have specialized in treating people with problematic substance use and substance use disorders. I work within a compassionate, collaborative, and trauma-informed approach. The right way to make meaningful change is the way that works best for you. I'm here to work with you on finding that way.
(343) 304-6325 View (343) 304-6325
Photo of Wendy Elizabeth Brown, RP, ICADC, ICCS, CCAC, Registered Psychotherapist
Wendy Elizabeth Brown
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, ICADC, ICCS, CCAC
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2A  (Online Only)
Wendy Brown is a Registered Psychotherapist with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario. As well, she is a seasoned veteran in the field of Addiction Counselling for over 30 years. Wendy's practice and experience has focused on the continuum of treatment, including harm reduction, stabilization, abstinence and relapse prevention depending on each individuals goals. She specializes in Issues of mental health and substance use for adults, young adults and youth. Challenges such as internal and external stressors such as grief, trauma, emotional regulation and issues related to the Criminal Justice System.
Wendy Brown is a Registered Psychotherapist with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario. As well, she is a seasoned veteran in the field of Addiction Counselling for over 30 years. Wendy's practice and experience has focused on the continuum of treatment, including harm reduction, stabilization, abstinence and relapse prevention depending on each individuals goals. She specializes in Issues of mental health and substance use for adults, young adults and youth. Challenges such as internal and external stressors such as grief, trauma, emotional regulation and issues related to the Criminal Justice System.
(343) 307-4969 View (343) 307-4969
Photo of Whitney Ricard, BA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Whitney Ricard
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, RP
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1Z  (Online Only)
If you're facing problematic substance use or addiction you probably feel tired, out of control, and maybe even hopeless. The good news is, there is hope and you're not alone. Addiction comes in many different forms and is a complex issue to manage. If you or someone you love are looking for help or support please reach out. I support people with substance use, misuse, abuse, dependence, mental health concerns, as well as their family and friends who often feel uncertain as to how to move forward.
If you're facing problematic substance use or addiction you probably feel tired, out of control, and maybe even hopeless. The good news is, there is hope and you're not alone. Addiction comes in many different forms and is a complex issue to manage. If you or someone you love are looking for help or support please reach out. I support people with substance use, misuse, abuse, dependence, mental health concerns, as well as their family and friends who often feel uncertain as to how to move forward.
(873) 514-5015 View (873) 514-5015
Photo of Dave Neary - Dave Neary Registered Psychotherapist , RP, MEd, Registered Psychotherapist
Dave Neary Registered Psychotherapist
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MEd
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K0A
Although I work with a wide range of client issues, a few of my counseling specialties are Men's Issues, Substance Use, Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Relationships (individuals only), OCD, Bi-polar Disorder, Veterans, 1st Responders and L.
Accepting New Clients - As Available: I am a caring and empathic psychotherapist who works from a strengths-based approach and help people to resolve troubling issues in their lives. My services are tailored to your needs. My goal is for you to live a more peaceful and balanced life and to learn coping strategies to carry with you after counselling is completed. As in all counselling, we will work together to find solutions to the issues you bring to the counselling session. Visit my website at nearycounsellingkingston.ca
Although I work with a wide range of client issues, a few of my counseling specialties are Men's Issues, Substance Use, Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Relationships (individuals only), OCD, Bi-polar Disorder, Veterans, 1st Responders and L.
Accepting New Clients - As Available: I am a caring and empathic psychotherapist who works from a strengths-based approach and help people to resolve troubling issues in their lives. My services are tailored to your needs. My goal is for you to live a more peaceful and balanced life and to learn coping strategies to carry with you after counselling is completed. As in all counselling, we will work together to find solutions to the issues you bring to the counselling session. Visit my website at nearycounsellingkingston.ca
(613) 704-5832 View (613) 704-5832
Photo of Lindsay Abrames, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Lindsay Abrames
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K0A
Are you feeling stuck in a cycle of secrecy, shame, and isolation that often accompanies alcohol and/or substance use? Maybe you are wondering if you have a problem with substances, are contemplating change, or are interested in relapse prevention to sustain your gains in recovery. Alternatively, are you exhausted and feeling helpless as you navigate a loved one’s substance use and mental health concerns? Perhaps you are worried about your own well-being and want to reconnect with yourself. I also support individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, grief/loss, chronic stress, and major life transitions.
Are you feeling stuck in a cycle of secrecy, shame, and isolation that often accompanies alcohol and/or substance use? Maybe you are wondering if you have a problem with substances, are contemplating change, or are interested in relapse prevention to sustain your gains in recovery. Alternatively, are you exhausted and feeling helpless as you navigate a loved one’s substance use and mental health concerns? Perhaps you are worried about your own well-being and want to reconnect with yourself. I also support individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, grief/loss, chronic stress, and major life transitions.
(343) 321-0790 View (343) 321-0790
Photo of Madison Cruickshank, MA, Registered Psychotherapist
Madison Cruickshank
Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1R  (Online Only)
I bring more than a decade of experience working with those living with trauma(s), substance use disorders, and other relational or mental health-related 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 I enjoy walking alongside to support folks in accessing these strengths and resources. I strive to establish trusting and collaborative relationships that create a safe space for exploration and growth. I work from a person-centered and trauma-informed lens, while integrating a variety of modalities including Internal Family Systems, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), somatic and mindfulness-based interventions, ACT and DBT.
I bring more than a decade of experience working with those living with trauma(s), substance use disorders, and other relational or mental health-related 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 I enjoy walking alongside to support folks in accessing these strengths and resources. I strive to establish trusting and collaborative relationships that create a safe space for exploration and growth. I work from a person-centered and trauma-informed lens, while integrating a variety of modalities including Internal Family Systems, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), somatic and mindfulness-based interventions, ACT and DBT.
(587) 871-8418 View (587) 871-8418
Photo of Nick Delroy, Registered Psychotherapist
Nick Delroy
Registered Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2H
If you decide to respond, please use only the most basic of generalities to describe your situation, this to preserve your privacy with electronic communication. Substance use, trauma and other mental health issues can do horrible damage to someone's quality of life. Parenting a teenager as they go through the chaos of drug use or mental health struggles can be immensely challenging also. Neither I nor anyone else here can make any promises, however, actual change, decreasing damage, processing things and at the very least adding another support, are utterly realistic possibilities with psychotherapy. If you need help, ask.
If you decide to respond, please use only the most basic of generalities to describe your situation, this to preserve your privacy with electronic communication. Substance use, trauma and other mental health issues can do horrible damage to someone's quality of life. Parenting a teenager as they go through the chaos of drug use or mental health struggles can be immensely challenging also. Neither I nor anyone else here can make any promises, however, actual change, decreasing damage, processing things and at the very least adding another support, are utterly realistic possibilities with psychotherapy. If you need help, ask.
(613) 383-5469 View (613) 383-5469
Photo of Ericha Braun, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Ericha Braun
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2A
I specialize in supporting individuals facing challenges including anxiety, depression, OCD, borderline personality disorder, ADHD, and substance use.
I operate from a client-centred and trauma-informed perspective to create a supportive and individualized environment for you to explore the challenges you’re experiencing. Together, we can work to understand what is getting in the way for you now and how to make effective changes to get you to where you want to be.
I specialize in supporting individuals facing challenges including anxiety, depression, OCD, borderline personality disorder, ADHD, and substance use.
I operate from a client-centred and trauma-informed perspective to create a supportive and individualized environment for you to explore the challenges you’re experiencing. Together, we can work to understand what is getting in the way for you now and how to make effective changes to get you to where you want to be.
(343) 947-1203 View (343) 947-1203
Photo of Lydia Lee - Lydia Lee, OT Reg. (Ont.), Psychotherapist , MScOT, OT Reg, Occupational Therapist
Lydia Lee, OT Reg. (Ont.), Psychotherapist
Occupational Therapist, MScOT, OT Reg
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2C  (Online Only)
I am experienced in working with a wide range of mental health-related concerns including depression, anxiety, substance use, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, concussion/TBI and psychosis.
Thank you for reaching out - I know that seeking help not always easy and it takes a lot of energy and courage to do so. As an occupational therapist and psychotherapist, I strive to understand how my clients’ “occupations” (i.e. meaningful activities and life roles), are impacted in order to support their emotional health and recovery. My clients learn to identify what their personal strengths are, how their environment influences them and what gives them a sense of purpose in life. We practice coping skills and tools to overcome functional difficulties and increase independence.
I am experienced in working with a wide range of mental health-related concerns including depression, anxiety, substance use, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, concussion/TBI and psychosis.
Thank you for reaching out - I know that seeking help not always easy and it takes a lot of energy and courage to do so. As an occupational therapist and psychotherapist, I strive to understand how my clients’ “occupations” (i.e. meaningful activities and life roles), are impacted in order to support their emotional health and recovery. My clients learn to identify what their personal strengths are, how their environment influences them and what gives them a sense of purpose in life. We practice coping skills and tools to overcome functional difficulties and increase independence.
(343) 453-0266 View (343) 453-0266
Photo of Jessica Courville, M Ed, CCC, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Jessica Courville
Registered Psychotherapist, M Ed, CCC, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1K  (Online Only)
I work primarily with youth, young adults, and adults who are struggling with anxiety/worry, depression, low self-esteem, low self-confidence, low motivation, stress, life transitions, relationship issues, grief/loss, as well as addiction & problematic substance use.
Hello and welcome! Pause for a second, take a deep breath, and let's see if my approach to therapy speaks to you. My practice is holistic, integrative, and collaborative. Together, we will explore your life from a variety of perspectives and therapeutic approaches, which will help us work together to bring about new insights, consider new/different choices and options, let go of old beliefs, limit unhelpful thoughts and behaviours, as well as improve emotional balance and overall well-being. We will also explore the barriers/obstacles that are getting in the way of you living a life that feels balanced, joyful and fulfilling.
I work primarily with youth, young adults, and adults who are struggling with anxiety/worry, depression, low self-esteem, low self-confidence, low motivation, stress, life transitions, relationship issues, grief/loss, as well as addiction & problematic substance use.
Hello and welcome! Pause for a second, take a deep breath, and let's see if my approach to therapy speaks to you. My practice is holistic, integrative, and collaborative. Together, we will explore your life from a variety of perspectives and therapeutic approaches, which will help us work together to bring about new insights, consider new/different choices and options, let go of old beliefs, limit unhelpful thoughts and behaviours, as well as improve emotional balance and overall well-being. We will also explore the barriers/obstacles that are getting in the way of you living a life that feels balanced, joyful and fulfilling.
(343) 321-0884 View (343) 321-0884
Photo of Maaike de Graaf, MSc, BSc, Registered Psychotherapist
Maaike de Graaf
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, BSc
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2A
As a Psychotherapist, I strive to provide a safe, judgement-free, compassionate and growth-focused space for my clients, where their voices can be heard and encouragement is given to explore new ways of relating to difficult thoughts, feelings, memories and experiences. I have 14 years of extensive experience working with children, teenagers and adults facing diverse challenges including, but not limited to: depression, anxiety, substance use, and suicidal ideation. As a Queer therapist, I am passionate about working with fellow Queer/2SLGBTQ+ folks and allies, and love supporting clients throughout their identity journey.
As a Psychotherapist, I strive to provide a safe, judgement-free, compassionate and growth-focused space for my clients, where their voices can be heard and encouragement is given to explore new ways of relating to difficult thoughts, feelings, memories and experiences. I have 14 years of extensive experience working with children, teenagers and adults facing diverse challenges including, but not limited to: depression, anxiety, substance use, and suicidal ideation. As a Queer therapist, I am passionate about working with fellow Queer/2SLGBTQ+ folks and allies, and love supporting clients throughout their identity journey.
(613) 704-4176 View (613) 704-4176
Photo of Husainat Bakare, MA, CCC, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Husainat Bakare
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, CCC, RP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K0A  (Online Only)
I am a compassionate, warm, and dedicated psychotherapist practicing from a trauma-informed, anti-oppressive, and culturally sensitive approach. I specialize in helping individuals navigate complex relationship dynamics, resolve conflicts, and establish healthy boundaries. Additionally, I provide expert support for those struggling with chronic trauma, addictions, and substance use issues, empowering them to embrace their true worth and live more fulfilling lives.
I am a compassionate, warm, and dedicated psychotherapist practicing from a trauma-informed, anti-oppressive, and culturally sensitive approach. I specialize in helping individuals navigate complex relationship dynamics, resolve conflicts, and establish healthy boundaries. Additionally, I provide expert support for those struggling with chronic trauma, addictions, and substance use issues, empowering them to embrace their true worth and live more fulfilling lives.
(343) 309-9679 View (343) 309-9679
Photo of Dallas Davidson - Arktos Wellness Services Canada ADHD Team, MSW, RSW, CCC, RCC, ACC, Registered Social Worker
Arktos Wellness Services Canada ADHD Team
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, CCC, RCC, ACC
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2J  (Online Only)
Our ideal clients are individuals and families navigating life with ADHD. They seek a safe space to be their authentic selves while addressing challenges like anxiety, emotional regulation, organization, budgeting, substance use, depression, and procrastination. Our goal is to support newly diagnosed adults, parents of neurodivergent children, and anyone grappling with ADHD-related issues, helping them build skills, find balance, and thrive. We create a nurturing environment for personal growth and understanding, empowering clients to achieve their goals and improve their quality of life.
Our ideal clients are individuals and families navigating life with ADHD. They seek a safe space to be their authentic selves while addressing challenges like anxiety, emotional regulation, organization, budgeting, substance use, depression, and procrastination. Our goal is to support newly diagnosed adults, parents of neurodivergent children, and anyone grappling with ADHD-related issues, helping them build skills, find balance, and thrive. We create a nurturing environment for personal growth and understanding, empowering clients to achieve their goals and improve their quality of life.
(249) 490-5992 View (249) 490-5992
Photo of Makayla Chartrand, MA, OCSWSSW, Registered Social Worker
Makayla Chartrand
Registered Social Worker, MA, OCSWSSW
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2H
I aim to work collaboratively with clients on various issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship counselling, substance use and addiction, 2SLGBTQ+ support, life transitions and more. I incorporate Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Emotion-Focused Therapy, and mindfulness into my interventions with clients, acknowledging that each client holds a unique and individualized life story. I value compassion, empathy, empowerment, and the development of coping skills and emotional regulation.
I aim to work collaboratively with clients on various issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship counselling, substance use and addiction, 2SLGBTQ+ support, life transitions and more. I incorporate Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Emotion-Focused Therapy, and mindfulness into my interventions with clients, acknowledging that each client holds a unique and individualized life story. I value compassion, empathy, empowerment, and the development of coping skills and emotional regulation.
(343) 633-0376 View (343) 633-0376
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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.