Substance Use Therapists in Phoenix, AZ
![Photo of Ryan Fiedler - Aligned Therapy, MA, LAC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/de2fbd13-f50b-4aad-8fb1-ad9cffe8819c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, stress, substance use, relationship issues, or even crisis situations I can assist with developing a personalized treatment plan. I have worked with a variety of clients including Veterans and First Responders, seniors, the LGBTQ+ community and people from various cultures.
Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, stress, substance use, relationship issues, or even crisis situations I can assist with developing a personalized treatment plan. I have worked with a variety of clients including Veterans and First Responders, seniors, the LGBTQ+ community and people from various cultures.
![Photo of Theresa De Armond, LPC, NCC, MAPC, MACC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4854d3bc-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Theresa De Armond
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MAPC, MACC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85020
Not accepting new clients
Areas of focus include substance use and addiction related issues to encompass addressing anger responses, traumatic and/or shaping events, realigning emotion regulation and interpersonal effectiveness, and personal healing.
You possess the strength to put survival mode behind you and live in the present, experiencing a full range of emotions and emotional stability. I will be with you through your journey and assist you in recapturing the control, contentment, and connection you have been missing. You have the ability to recover from shaping events that have influenced your life in undesirable ways, and to develop and strengthen the skills needed to implement the growth you desire. The life you want is within your power. You have the strength. Believe in your truth.
Areas of focus include substance use and addiction related issues to encompass addressing anger responses, traumatic and/or shaping events, realigning emotion regulation and interpersonal effectiveness, and personal healing.
You possess the strength to put survival mode behind you and live in the present, experiencing a full range of emotions and emotional stability. I will be with you through your journey and assist you in recapturing the control, contentment, and connection you have been missing. You have the ability to recover from shaping events that have influenced your life in undesirable ways, and to develop and strengthen the skills needed to implement the growth you desire. The life you want is within your power. You have the strength. Believe in your truth.
![Photo of Amber King, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8b7e00df-4c13-4727-8b4d-ecfe4fe48faa/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you and your partner struggling to communicate, finding that your conversations often end in misunderstandings or arguments? Are you feeling overrun by your emotions and losing control of your inner peace? Or perhaps you or your family has been negatively impacted by substance use and you're seeking compassionate support to navigate through these challenges. I firmly believe in the power of resilience and the human capacity for healing no matter the circumstances. While life experiences can be overwhelming, remember, it is possible to reclaim your life and find inner peace.
Are you and your partner struggling to communicate, finding that your conversations often end in misunderstandings or arguments? Are you feeling overrun by your emotions and losing control of your inner peace? Or perhaps you or your family has been negatively impacted by substance use and you're seeking compassionate support to navigate through these challenges. I firmly believe in the power of resilience and the human capacity for healing no matter the circumstances. While life experiences can be overwhelming, remember, it is possible to reclaim your life and find inner peace.
![Photo of Emma Beale, MA, LAC , Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/629e23b6-6833-4789-b805-1e05d0d18480/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have experience working with adults and teens who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use, domestic violence, intrusive thoughts, and phase of life issues.
Immediate availability in person and telehealth! Starting therapy can feel daunting. I commend you for taking this step and hope you know that you are not alone. No matter what therapist is best suited for your needs, I wish you the best on your journey of personal growth. To help you understand if I’m the right person to be your partner in that journey, a little about me: I completed my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and French at Ohio Wesleyan University and then completed my Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at the University of Toledo.
I have experience working with adults and teens who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use, domestic violence, intrusive thoughts, and phase of life issues.
Immediate availability in person and telehealth! Starting therapy can feel daunting. I commend you for taking this step and hope you know that you are not alone. No matter what therapist is best suited for your needs, I wish you the best on your journey of personal growth. To help you understand if I’m the right person to be your partner in that journey, a little about me: I completed my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and French at Ohio Wesleyan University and then completed my Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at the University of Toledo.
![Photo of Bonnie Grossman - Headway, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ffd47d3d-2e42-47f8-b433-6f7159f0e998/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, my name is Bonnie and I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor. I've been working in the field of mental health for over ten years now and have worked with a variety of complex issues including trauma, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, substance use disorders, personality disorders, and family dysfunction.
Hi, my name is Bonnie and I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor. I've been working in the field of mental health for over ten years now and have worked with a variety of complex issues including trauma, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, substance use disorders, personality disorders, and family dysfunction.
![Photo of Valerie Fink Sierra, MAHR, LISAC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4bfb55b8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Valerie Fink Sierra
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MAHR, LISAC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85020
There is no cure for substance use disorders.
Yes currently accepting new clients.My intent as a therapist is to openly and safely address your unique needs,promoting your well being and personal growth to help maintian long term sobriety.Using evidence based therapies(CBT,DBT,ACT, motivational interviewing, and EMDR or ART for healing trauma)you will recieve individualized,compassionate care.Every recovery is "sui generis", like your fingerprint, individual and personal in it's own way.Through therapy you will learn to utilize your distinct strengths and qualities to naviagate challenges of living life substance free,helping you realize living happy and sober is possible.
There is no cure for substance use disorders.
Yes currently accepting new clients.My intent as a therapist is to openly and safely address your unique needs,promoting your well being and personal growth to help maintian long term sobriety.Using evidence based therapies(CBT,DBT,ACT, motivational interviewing, and EMDR or ART for healing trauma)you will recieve individualized,compassionate care.Every recovery is "sui generis", like your fingerprint, individual and personal in it's own way.Through therapy you will learn to utilize your distinct strengths and qualities to naviagate challenges of living life substance free,helping you realize living happy and sober is possible.
![Photo of Josh Brody, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/07443471-71ab-4080-837b-8ef7609dfa34/3/320x400.jpeg)
Hello and welcome. I am a Licensed Associate Counselor working under Supervision at Better Days Behavioral Health in Chandler with extensive experience in both public agencies and private practice. I provide general mental health counseling for teens and adults with a specialization in treating Substance Use Disorders (SUDs). I offer in-person sessions at our office in Chandler and via telehealth, if desired.
Hello and welcome. I am a Licensed Associate Counselor working under Supervision at Better Days Behavioral Health in Chandler with extensive experience in both public agencies and private practice. I provide general mental health counseling for teens and adults with a specialization in treating Substance Use Disorders (SUDs). I offer in-person sessions at our office in Chandler and via telehealth, if desired.
![Photo of Stacey Stocks @ Entune Behavioral Health, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dcd6586e-68e5-4977-864e-dd7bc4eab989/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stacey Stocks @ Entune Behavioral Health
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85041 (Online Only)
My clients seek support for issues like Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, and Substance Use. They desire relief from distress, healthier coping mechanisms, and improved relationships. I provide a safe, judgment-free space and practical tools to navigate their struggles. Together, we work towards healing, growth, and a greater sense of wellbeing.
My clients seek support for issues like Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, and Substance Use. They desire relief from distress, healthier coping mechanisms, and improved relationships. I provide a safe, judgment-free space and practical tools to navigate their struggles. Together, we work towards healing, growth, and a greater sense of wellbeing.
![Photo of Robert W Daughenbaugh Jr, MSAC, LISAC, BHP, Drug & Alcohol Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/128e5337-07fe-465c-924b-db8484ee2db5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Robert W Daughenbaugh Jr
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MSAC, LISAC, BHP
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85028
Rob is passionate about helping people move toward hope and healing as they struggle to overcome substance use and gambling addictions, and co-occurring disorders.
No one started gambling or using mind-altering substances with the idea of becoming addicted. At first it was fun and provided a way to escape the pains and drudgeries of life. Soon, gambling, drugs and alcohol were easy solutions to one’s problems: Fear, abandonment issues, domestic violence, low self-esteem, low self-worth, anger, anxiety, depression, codependency . . . and more. The sad truth is that all addictions ruins lives and families. However, . . . one does not have to let addiction control one’s life. There is a healthier solution.
Rob is passionate about helping people move toward hope and healing as they struggle to overcome substance use and gambling addictions, and co-occurring disorders.
No one started gambling or using mind-altering substances with the idea of becoming addicted. At first it was fun and provided a way to escape the pains and drudgeries of life. Soon, gambling, drugs and alcohol were easy solutions to one’s problems: Fear, abandonment issues, domestic violence, low self-esteem, low self-worth, anger, anxiety, depression, codependency . . . and more. The sad truth is that all addictions ruins lives and families. However, . . . one does not have to let addiction control one’s life. There is a healthier solution.
![Photo of Stacey Rowland - Strive Counseling and Consulting Services, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f6c9236e-b2d8-4ca9-bfda-f9ee972a6460/1/320x400.png)
Strive Counseling and Consulting Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85028
Multiple providers accepting new clients! Life can get complicated and stressful, and we are here to help. If you are suffering with mood instability, past traumas, substance use, emotional dysregulation, or relationship issues, you don't have to suffer alone.
Multiple providers accepting new clients! Life can get complicated and stressful, and we are here to help. If you are suffering with mood instability, past traumas, substance use, emotional dysregulation, or relationship issues, you don't have to suffer alone.
![Photo of Ilyssa Reading, MC, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48be6253-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
I also treat depression, anxiety, trauma-related distress, substance use, and transition of life stress, and have received training in EMDR and DBT.
Acknowledging that there is a problem and asking for help are the firsts step towards recovery. I provide a supportive, nonjudgmental environment to help individuals achieve a life worth living and to accomplish their goals. My practice focuses on the treatment of adolescents and adults struggling with eating disorders and body image distress. I also work with the families of these individuals to work through relational issues that may be contributing to the disorder, and to provide education on how to best support a loved one with an eating disorder.
I also treat depression, anxiety, trauma-related distress, substance use, and transition of life stress, and have received training in EMDR and DBT.
Acknowledging that there is a problem and asking for help are the firsts step towards recovery. I provide a supportive, nonjudgmental environment to help individuals achieve a life worth living and to accomplish their goals. My practice focuses on the treatment of adolescents and adults struggling with eating disorders and body image distress. I also work with the families of these individuals to work through relational issues that may be contributing to the disorder, and to provide education on how to best support a loved one with an eating disorder.
15 Second Videos
Theresa De Armond
Valerie Fink Sierra
Stacey Stocks @ Entune Behavioral Health
Robert W Daughenbaugh Jr
Lisa Mutterperl
Elijah Bedrosian
Erik M Gagnon
Kevin Dalton
Stacy Garza
Jayme Scarfo
Katie McSpadden
Ian Hume
Nicole Lazorwitz
Roshelle Johnson
Diane Palacios
Karen Ruskin
Diana Cofsky
Courtney Glenny
James Sapp
Travis Wood Munnerlyn
James Edwards
White Tiger Counseling
Living and Balance Wellness Center LLC
Elijah Steinbrecher
Leah Phillips
Donn R. Yeager
Sabino Springs Counseling
Steffany A Kroeger
Krystal Paquette McBride
Durand Healing and Wellness Center
Andre Abrams
Rachel Voltz
Staci Detwiler
Brandi Luedtke
Jennifer Hotchner
Dylan Richard
Genaro Huerta
Emily Hines
Jennifer Beall
Elizabeth Ogren
Lisa Ruelas
Traumadaptive Counseling & Consulting PLLC
Aguilu Healing Services, LLC
Jessica Roberts
Mindful Youth Foundation
Echo Cochrell-Gretz
ABRA Health “Dr. Gadson”
Precious Chapman
Erica Holmes-Harris
Danielle Weeks
![Photo of Amanda Hicks, MS, LAC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8a16c360-c775-4afa-8709-dfac3edeb3b5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Life is a journey, and I am here to support you on that journey! My focus is on the therapeutic relationship with the client, and I believe counseling is a collaborative effort. I enjoy working with teenagers, young adults, and adults who struggle with stress, depression, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem, self-worth, relationship and substance use issues.
Life is a journey, and I am here to support you on that journey! My focus is on the therapeutic relationship with the client, and I believe counseling is a collaborative effort. I enjoy working with teenagers, young adults, and adults who struggle with stress, depression, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem, self-worth, relationship and substance use issues.
![Photo of Robia Fields, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e1d7f007-05e0-491d-ada7-0e0cb0a23ebc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Robia Fields
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85029 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy CBT and Expressive Arts. I’ve worked with several agencies, servicing adolescents, young/middle-aged adults, and geriatrics. Primarily I offer individual, family, and group treatment to those who suffer from previous or present mental illness, substance use disorders, and/or comorbid disorders. Such services have aid to improve stability in daily living, improve family relationships, restore homeostasis, increase the possibility of abstinence, improve the ability to cope with crisis situations, all while providing clinical guidance
I am a psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy CBT and Expressive Arts. I’ve worked with several agencies, servicing adolescents, young/middle-aged adults, and geriatrics. Primarily I offer individual, family, and group treatment to those who suffer from previous or present mental illness, substance use disorders, and/or comorbid disorders. Such services have aid to improve stability in daily living, improve family relationships, restore homeostasis, increase the possibility of abstinence, improve the ability to cope with crisis situations, all while providing clinical guidance
![Photo of Erin L Sebree, LMFT, LISAC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c117105e-fae6-4715-840f-8d3361f7a1db/3/320x400.jpeg)
Erin L Sebree
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LISAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85016 (Online Only)
I have experience working with many issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, attachment based issues, traumatic experiences and post-traumatic stress, meaning of life issues, substance use disorders, emotional dysfunction, stress management, and self-esteem and self-worth issues.
I have experience working with many issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, attachment based issues, traumatic experiences and post-traumatic stress, meaning of life issues, substance use disorders, emotional dysfunction, stress management, and self-esteem and self-worth issues.
![Photo of Yisroel Loeb - Empower Mental Health, PLLC, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6b8f0e74-d1d8-422b-abd6-389113391a97/3/320x400.jpeg)
We employ psychologists and therapists who are highly trained and specialize working with individuals of all ages, couples and families struggling with issues to include substance use addictions, behavioral addictions, mood disorders, relationship conflicts, educational/vocational challenges and deeper personality/characterological issues.
Welcome to Empower Mental Health. Our guiding principal is to empower our clients to thrive well past the time when counseling is concluded. From the first session we focus on working ourselves out of a job. A focus we take pride in is working with veterans and their families. We accept insurances to include Optum/United, Aetna, Cigna, BCBS, Medicare and Triwest. We are available for both in-person and telehealth sessions. Services can be scheduled outside of business hours including mornings, nights, and weekends. Please take a look at our website: https://empowermh.co
We employ psychologists and therapists who are highly trained and specialize working with individuals of all ages, couples and families struggling with issues to include substance use addictions, behavioral addictions, mood disorders, relationship conflicts, educational/vocational challenges and deeper personality/characterological issues.
Welcome to Empower Mental Health. Our guiding principal is to empower our clients to thrive well past the time when counseling is concluded. From the first session we focus on working ourselves out of a job. A focus we take pride in is working with veterans and their families. We accept insurances to include Optum/United, Aetna, Cigna, BCBS, Medicare and Triwest. We are available for both in-person and telehealth sessions. Services can be scheduled outside of business hours including mornings, nights, and weekends. Please take a look at our website: https://empowermh.co
![Photo of Lisa Mutterperl, LMFT, LASAC, CAADC, ATR, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d0727380-4238-45a9-9914-c8d3366256fa/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lisa Mutterperl
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LASAC, CAADC, ATR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85032
First, it is to be acknowledged that you have taken a BIG step in reaching out! Be proud of yourself as this is NOT as easy as it sounds. If you feel stuck or are struggling with how to respond to life's challenges and are ready to create positive change, I can help in navigating you towards identified goals. My expertise lies in addressing complex trauma, depression, anxiety and substance use for ages 14 and up. You are not alone and you do not have to do this alone. Please take one more step and contact me to begin your journey to well being.
First, it is to be acknowledged that you have taken a BIG step in reaching out! Be proud of yourself as this is NOT as easy as it sounds. If you feel stuck or are struggling with how to respond to life's challenges and are ready to create positive change, I can help in navigating you towards identified goals. My expertise lies in addressing complex trauma, depression, anxiety and substance use for ages 14 and up. You are not alone and you do not have to do this alone. Please take one more step and contact me to begin your journey to well being.
![Photo of Gustavo Franza - Franza Psychological Services, PLLC, MA, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cad571e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Franza Psychological Services, PLLC
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85016
Franza Psychological Services, PLLC, offers an array of psychological and neuropsychological evaluations for individuals who are looking to address life difficulties. We evaluate individuals who struggle with neurodevelopmental disorders (autistic spectrum disorder and intellectual disability), neurocognitive disorders, long-term behavioral, mental health difficulties, and substance use disorders. The clinicians at Franza Psychological Services PLLC, specialize in a variety of mental health disorders, requiring clinical, forensic, and neuropsychological specialties.
Franza Psychological Services, PLLC, offers an array of psychological and neuropsychological evaluations for individuals who are looking to address life difficulties. We evaluate individuals who struggle with neurodevelopmental disorders (autistic spectrum disorder and intellectual disability), neurocognitive disorders, long-term behavioral, mental health difficulties, and substance use disorders. The clinicians at Franza Psychological Services PLLC, specialize in a variety of mental health disorders, requiring clinical, forensic, and neuropsychological specialties.
![Photo of Dr. Kerrey Bogardus, MS, PsyD, Limited Licensed Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ef4eecbc-8fc2-466d-bb5a-052297113cad/1/320x400.png)
You will learn about stress management, coping strategies, substance use relapse prevention, and how to boost your self-esteem.
Pain from the past or fear about the future might make it difficult to enjoy the present. If this describes you or a teen you care about, I want you to know there is hope. My name is Kerrey, and I'm glad you found my bio. I enjoy working with teenagers and adults who are striving to be their best selves. I practice therapy at Choose Health and Happiness Counseling in a comfortable, inviting space at the Scottsdale location on Shea Boulevard. Your story, your pain, and your collection of difficulties are unique to you. There is no such thing as a one-size-fits-all approach to therapy.
You will learn about stress management, coping strategies, substance use relapse prevention, and how to boost your self-esteem.
Pain from the past or fear about the future might make it difficult to enjoy the present. If this describes you or a teen you care about, I want you to know there is hope. My name is Kerrey, and I'm glad you found my bio. I enjoy working with teenagers and adults who are striving to be their best selves. I practice therapy at Choose Health and Happiness Counseling in a comfortable, inviting space at the Scottsdale location on Shea Boulevard. Your story, your pain, and your collection of difficulties are unique to you. There is no such thing as a one-size-fits-all approach to therapy.
![Photo of Elijah Bedrosian, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ed2e29c6-9ab9-45ad-8fd4-81ed46c8cb4c/2/320x400.jpeg)
This can include relationship with parents, desire for independence, issues around identity and belonging, peer group, sexuality, substance use, career aspiration and more.
I work with individuals (both teens and adults), couples and family systems. I have helped people to heal from past hurts, sexuality, addiction/compulsivity, betrayal trauma, anxiety, depression and relationship struggles. Our sessions will be focused on the reasons you are seeking help. If you are seeking individual therapy, common issues we often discuss include: how to improve relationships, work through stressors and trauma, and have healthier ways of managing mood including anxiety and depression. It is also common that I discuss with you how your past experiences influence your life and your relationships today.
This can include relationship with parents, desire for independence, issues around identity and belonging, peer group, sexuality, substance use, career aspiration and more.
I work with individuals (both teens and adults), couples and family systems. I have helped people to heal from past hurts, sexuality, addiction/compulsivity, betrayal trauma, anxiety, depression and relationship struggles. Our sessions will be focused on the reasons you are seeking help. If you are seeking individual therapy, common issues we often discuss include: how to improve relationships, work through stressors and trauma, and have healthier ways of managing mood including anxiety and depression. It is also common that I discuss with you how your past experiences influence your life and your relationships today.
![Photo of Dr. Lindsay Okonowsky, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d22807d9-7fde-4dc8-af8c-5d9fc2ac540b/1/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in working with individuals/couples struggling with issues related to substance use, relationships, career stress, depression, anxiety, trauma, major life transitions, emotion regulation, and self-esteem.
My priority is fostering a confidential and caring working relationship through which you can explore areas for growth and your existing resilience. My training and experience in multiple unique settings with a diverse client base has helped me to develop a strong belief in individuals’ power to bring sustainable change to their lives. I acknowledge the difficulty involved in taking the first steps toward initiating psychotherapy. Please reach out for individual or couple’s therapy consultation if you have general questions or would like to determine whether I would be a good fit to help you address your needs.
I specialize in working with individuals/couples struggling with issues related to substance use, relationships, career stress, depression, anxiety, trauma, major life transitions, emotion regulation, and self-esteem.
My priority is fostering a confidential and caring working relationship through which you can explore areas for growth and your existing resilience. My training and experience in multiple unique settings with a diverse client base has helped me to develop a strong belief in individuals’ power to bring sustainable change to their lives. I acknowledge the difficulty involved in taking the first steps toward initiating psychotherapy. Please reach out for individual or couple’s therapy consultation if you have general questions or would like to determine whether I would be a good fit to help you address your needs.
See more therapy options for Phoenix
Nearby Substance Use Therapists Searches for Phoenix
- Avondale
- Chandler
- Fountain Hills
- Glendale
- Goodyear
- Laveen
- Litchfield Park
- Paradise Valley
- Peoria
- Scottsdale
- Sun City West
- Tempe
Substance Use Therapists
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, counselors, 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.