Substance Use Therapists in Renfrew, ON
![Photo of Seeing The Bigger Picture Psychotherapy - Jacqueline Gauvreau, BA, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3a2e957d-1772-4e18-9308-00c66047301e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Seeing The Bigger Picture Psychotherapy - Jacqueline Gauvreau
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Renfrew, ON K7V
Hi there! I'm so happy you stumbled across my page! Choosing the right therapist, who truly makes you feel seen and heard, is quite possibly the most difficult yet important decision you will make on your therapeutic journey. The development of trust, honesty, comfortability, vulnerability, and authenticity required for you to feel safe and continue forward on your healing, growth, and development is a complex process, to say the least. As a therapist, and a human, I value the relationship with my own therapist, and strive to provide the same authenticity and connection to you. You deserve to be seen, and you deserve to be heard.
Hi there! I'm so happy you stumbled across my page! Choosing the right therapist, who truly makes you feel seen and heard, is quite possibly the most difficult yet important decision you will make on your therapeutic journey. The development of trust, honesty, comfortability, vulnerability, and authenticity required for you to feel safe and continue forward on your healing, growth, and development is a complex process, to say the least. As a therapist, and a human, I value the relationship with my own therapist, and strive to provide the same authenticity and connection to you. You deserve to be seen, and you deserve to be heard.
![Photo of Amanda Telford, MSW, RSW, CTIC, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0aeb3794-4de4-4336-bb43-d3b87a7fd662/3/320x400.jpeg)
Amanda Telford
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, CTIC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Renfrew, ON K7V
Welcome to my profile. You have taken a difficult step in exploring your healing and recovery journey. You may be looking for support as you navigate stress, burnout, trauma, complex trauma, anxiety, depression, caregiver fatigue, ADHD or autism, addictions, and life transitions. Maybe you and your partner are experiencing challenges around communication, intimacy, parenting, elder care, work-life balance, differences in wants, needs, and life goals. Maybe you are a first responder/military/vet seeking a therapist who is truly able to deep dive with you, help regulate intrusive thoughts, and deeply process traumatic events.
Welcome to my profile. You have taken a difficult step in exploring your healing and recovery journey. You may be looking for support as you navigate stress, burnout, trauma, complex trauma, anxiety, depression, caregiver fatigue, ADHD or autism, addictions, and life transitions. Maybe you and your partner are experiencing challenges around communication, intimacy, parenting, elder care, work-life balance, differences in wants, needs, and life goals. Maybe you are a first responder/military/vet seeking a therapist who is truly able to deep dive with you, help regulate intrusive thoughts, and deeply process traumatic events.
Registered Social Workers (RSW) at On The Ball provide holistic, comprehensive care to clients of all ages, in every stage of life. A variety of therapies are offered in different formats, including individual therapy, group therapy and parent consultation. From a trauma-informed, compassionate lens, RSWs will meet with you, understand your needs and co-develop a tailored plan to support you. RSWs can also support with navigating complex systems, such as the school system and health care system while advocating for you and your family.
Registered Social Workers (RSW) at On The Ball provide holistic, comprehensive care to clients of all ages, in every stage of life. A variety of therapies are offered in different formats, including individual therapy, group therapy and parent consultation. From a trauma-informed, compassionate lens, RSWs will meet with you, understand your needs and co-develop a tailored plan to support you. RSWs can also support with navigating complex systems, such as the school system and health care system while advocating for you and your family.
![Photo of Magnolia McCallum, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0a4d0db3-edb7-499d-9730-133e5686e411/1/320x400.jpeg)
Magnolia McCallum
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Renfrew, ON K7V
I am currently accepting new clients. I serve as a trained guide in life; privileged to create access to evidence-based therapies, experiential knowledge and authentic support. I can assist with difficult emotions and life events, relationships, transitions, coping, goal setting and the pursuit of such goals. I can help build understanding of the self and help you tap into your own inherent wisdom and resiliency.
I am currently accepting new clients. I serve as a trained guide in life; privileged to create access to evidence-based therapies, experiential knowledge and authentic support. I can assist with difficult emotions and life events, relationships, transitions, coping, goal setting and the pursuit of such goals. I can help build understanding of the self and help you tap into your own inherent wisdom and resiliency.
![Photo of Lisa Bowman - Forging Forward Counselling Services, MSW, RSW, RRP, TITC-CT, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b93e6585-2d02-4966-bfcb-15b8f700be00/2/320x400.jpeg)
Forging Forward Counselling Services
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, RRP, TITC-CT
Verified Verified
Renfrew, ON K7V
Counsellors at Forging Forward Counselling Services are with our clients on their journey, every step of the way! Our counsellor works with the client using approaches that foster self-determination and promote resiliency. We believe that people have a natural and intrinsic tendency to behave in effective and healthy ways. We understand that enduring recovery is an continuous process that requires a customizable treatment plan based on each client or group's specific needs.
Counsellors at Forging Forward Counselling Services are with our clients on their journey, every step of the way! Our counsellor works with the client using approaches that foster self-determination and promote resiliency. We believe that people have a natural and intrinsic tendency to behave in effective and healthy ways. We understand that enduring recovery is an continuous process that requires a customizable treatment plan based on each client or group's specific needs.
![Photo of Sherridon Parcells, BA, MACP, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1ddfab8c-32d4-4149-9432-ab7de28316de/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sherridon Parcells
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MACP, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Renfrew, ON K7V (Online Only)
Feeling stressed, anxious or struggling with low mood and/or depression? Ready to take the initial step in feeling better? For many people at some point in their lives, they might feel that something is too challenging to manage and overcome. These situations can sometimes lead to feeling hopeless, stuck and defeated. As a registered psychotherapist, I am trained in supporting people to overcome some of life’s most challenging situations through cultivating a warm, non-judgmental, empathic and compassionate environment as well as drawing on evidence based therapeutic approaches, modalities and interventions.
Feeling stressed, anxious or struggling with low mood and/or depression? Ready to take the initial step in feeling better? For many people at some point in their lives, they might feel that something is too challenging to manage and overcome. These situations can sometimes lead to feeling hopeless, stuck and defeated. As a registered psychotherapist, I am trained in supporting people to overcome some of life’s most challenging situations through cultivating a warm, non-judgmental, empathic and compassionate environment as well as drawing on evidence based therapeutic approaches, modalities and interventions.
![Photo of Doug Blad, MEd, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c6e09a0c-4937-455a-a7b7-36eeea55e98b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Doug Blad
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Renfrew, ON K7V (Online Only)
Accepting new clients – Hi I know that finding the right therapist can be an intimidating process, I would like to do my best to make this as comfortable and easy as possible. I’m going to lay out some information about how I work and how that may impact you, if you have any questions or you want to meet, please feel free to reach out! To start, my top priority in working with you is ensuring you feel safe discussing whatever is going on in your life. From there we can work at overcoming obstacles, clarifying goals, or anything else we agree on and see as productive and beneficial for you.
Accepting new clients – Hi I know that finding the right therapist can be an intimidating process, I would like to do my best to make this as comfortable and easy as possible. I’m going to lay out some information about how I work and how that may impact you, if you have any questions or you want to meet, please feel free to reach out! To start, my top priority in working with you is ensuring you feel safe discussing whatever is going on in your life. From there we can work at overcoming obstacles, clarifying goals, or anything else we agree on and see as productive and beneficial for you.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Maaike de Graaf, MSc, BSc, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1d4c2014-0d59-41ee-be2c-8789b599b5f2/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Nick Delroy, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/27ae04e9-5348-4b08-bad8-8e5d954bd54d/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Natalie Guenette, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d65a3b70-be47-4265-b19f-a6ce758840d5/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Sarah Karasz - Brown Counselling - Sarah Karasz, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d0018df2-917e-48f0-80ba-d24bbdb023c9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brown Counselling - Sarah Karasz
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orleans, ON K1C
My door is open to a variety of challenges that are faced among adults (18+), including substance use, grief, anxiety, stress, depression, low self-esteem, disordered eating, and the unique challenges faced by those within military families.
Brown Counselling and Therapy Services is a team of qualified therapists who are passionate about working alongside you to provide the tools to help you navigate through life's up and downs. I recognize how your experiences may have lead you to the decision to seek out a therapist, and I would be honoured to walk alongside you in your healing journey. I work within person-centered, integrative, and strengths-based approaches to therapy, all of which foster understanding and respect for the nuances of your individualistic needs.
My door is open to a variety of challenges that are faced among adults (18+), including substance use, grief, anxiety, stress, depression, low self-esteem, disordered eating, and the unique challenges faced by those within military families.
Brown Counselling and Therapy Services is a team of qualified therapists who are passionate about working alongside you to provide the tools to help you navigate through life's up and downs. I recognize how your experiences may have lead you to the decision to seek out a therapist, and I would be honoured to walk alongside you in your healing journey. I work within person-centered, integrative, and strengths-based approaches to therapy, all of which foster understanding and respect for the nuances of your individualistic needs.
![Photo of Lydia Lee - Lydia Lee, OT Reg. (Ont.), Psychotherapist , MScOT, OT Reg, Occupational Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e92c6f9d-5695-442b-813b-6382a6d84fa4/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Shannon Lawless - SL Psychotherapy and Wellness - Shannon Lawless, RP, RMFT-S, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7b9b9d33-e860-47f4-bb1e-1861f4018b45/1/320x400.jpeg)
SL Psychotherapy and Wellness - Shannon Lawless
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, RMFT-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kanata, ON K2L
Currently welcoming new clients for virtual and in-person sessions. We are a collection of Psychotherapists (RP, RP(Qualifying) and Clinical interns) who specialize in providing therapy to individuals, couples and families to clients across Ontario. Please look at the gallery of photos to see each of our team members - or seek further information about each provider on our website. We work with themes of sexuality, relational challenges (individual, couple/poly or family context), communication, addiction and substance use, disordered eating, non-monogamy, interethnic partnership, grief and loss, and mental health issues.
Currently welcoming new clients for virtual and in-person sessions. We are a collection of Psychotherapists (RP, RP(Qualifying) and Clinical interns) who specialize in providing therapy to individuals, couples and families to clients across Ontario. Please look at the gallery of photos to see each of our team members - or seek further information about each provider on our website. We work with themes of sexuality, relational challenges (individual, couple/poly or family context), communication, addiction and substance use, disordered eating, non-monogamy, interethnic partnership, grief and loss, and mental health issues.
![Photo of Suzie St Denis - Suzie St Denis - Clarity Counselling Services, RSW, BASoci, MA, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b951aa13-3621-49cc-b5b0-9d88f0ddfec6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Suzie St Denis - Clarity Counselling Services
Registered Social Worker, RSW, BASoci, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K4A
Waitlist for new clients
I have over 15 years of experience, with a large portion of those years supporting individuals living with substance use and MH difficulties, as well as their family members.
Welcome to my profile! It is not always easy to begin the process of reaching out for support, with that, I take pride in ensuring a comfortable and welcoming environment from the initial consultation, through the duration of our therapeutic relationship. Whatever your goals may be, I work from a strengths-based, collaborative lens, with the understanding that you are the expert in your own life. I am a proud ally to the LGBTQ2S community and welcome all persons.
I have over 15 years of experience, with a large portion of those years supporting individuals living with substance use and MH difficulties, as well as their family members.
Welcome to my profile! It is not always easy to begin the process of reaching out for support, with that, I take pride in ensuring a comfortable and welcoming environment from the initial consultation, through the duration of our therapeutic relationship. Whatever your goals may be, I work from a strengths-based, collaborative lens, with the understanding that you are the expert in your own life. I am a proud ally to the LGBTQ2S community and welcome all persons.
![Photo of Wendy Nuttall, BA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b321ee02-fd55-4013-9955-7d2331b0d8f1/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Jeff Latimer, PhD, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4e38bde2-fe08-46f7-bb3a-4afecd17a8c8/2/320x400.jpeg)
My current practice is focused on helping men address addiction issues including substance use disorder and sexual addictions, as well as major life transitions including divorce and major career changes. I focus on evidence-based approaches to healing and offer a non-judgmental and empathetic connection with my clients. I believe that therapy is most effective when the therapeutic relationship is strong and client-centred. I adapt my approach based upon the individual needs and goals of each client and use a number of different modalities including cognitive-behavioural therapy, mindful self-compassion, and trauma-focused therapy.
My current practice is focused on helping men address addiction issues including substance use disorder and sexual addictions, as well as major life transitions including divorce and major career changes. I focus on evidence-based approaches to healing and offer a non-judgmental and empathetic connection with my clients. I believe that therapy is most effective when the therapeutic relationship is strong and client-centred. I adapt my approach based upon the individual needs and goals of each client and use a number of different modalities including cognitive-behavioural therapy, mindful self-compassion, and trauma-focused therapy.
![Photo of Jessica Courville, M Ed, CCC, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cce469eb-5562-44bb-bf81-98c69922b65e/3/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Shannon LaBelle, MA, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b6dfd5d0-e368-4a65-8867-af778c1b381f/2/320x400.jpeg)
My current practice is focused on substance use disorder, depression, anxiety, trauma, and major life transitions. I offer an empathic and connective presence and engage each client with unconditional high regard while focusing on evidence-based approaches to healing.
My current practice is focused on substance use disorder, depression, anxiety, trauma, and major life transitions. I offer an empathic and connective presence and engage each client with unconditional high regard while focusing on evidence-based approaches to healing.
![Photo of Simon Erlich, MA, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/305d0d7e-9b79-482c-88db-538ff9f89b84/1/320x400.jpeg)
Simon Erlich
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, MACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brockville, ON K6V
I deeply value safety, non-judgement, and the courage it takes to be open with another. That’s why it is important to me that therapy proceeds at the pace of trust. In therapy, I endeavour to get to know the person that you are and understand the diversity of life experiences that have led you here. All humans, identities, and experiences are welcome. Of late, I have become specifically curious to understand and support those who experience stress, pain, substance use and conflict. I am also deeply curious about trauma and the impact it has on us as individuals, as a species, and in relation to those with whom we share our planet.
I deeply value safety, non-judgement, and the courage it takes to be open with another. That’s why it is important to me that therapy proceeds at the pace of trust. In therapy, I endeavour to get to know the person that you are and understand the diversity of life experiences that have led you here. All humans, identities, and experiences are welcome. Of late, I have become specifically curious to understand and support those who experience stress, pain, substance use and conflict. I am also deeply curious about trauma and the impact it has on us as individuals, as a species, and in relation to those with whom we share our planet.
![Photo of Lindsay Abrames, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a6cca10b-ce53-4cf5-97c6-356874fe3528/3/320x400.jpeg)
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.
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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.