Substance Use Therapists in Cardiff By The Sea, CA
![Photo of Michael Gallagher, MS, LPCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2f97452c-5a8b-4e4e-9ab1-5c4414f836c6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michael Gallagher
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cardiff By The Sea, CA 92007 (Online Only)
In the movie of your life, do you play the hero and the villain? Examples would be self-sabotage, counting yourself out, getting angrier than you need to, or adding stress to deal with stress. If being self-aware of these patterns hasn’t been enough to help you make positive changes, the support of a therapist might. Even if I don’t personally get the opportunity to work with you, I want you to know it takes courage to look within to stop being your own worst enemy. If we do work together I’m committed to helping you channel that courage to face what’s getting in the way of the role you want to play in your life.
In the movie of your life, do you play the hero and the villain? Examples would be self-sabotage, counting yourself out, getting angrier than you need to, or adding stress to deal with stress. If being self-aware of these patterns hasn’t been enough to help you make positive changes, the support of a therapist might. Even if I don’t personally get the opportunity to work with you, I want you to know it takes courage to look within to stop being your own worst enemy. If we do work together I’m committed to helping you channel that courage to face what’s getting in the way of the role you want to play in your life.
![Photo of Bonnie Rumble - Cardiff Counseling Center, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/554d23d2-67e9-4a10-a094-acc61f7e0c36/2/320x400.jpeg)
Cardiff Counseling Center
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Cardiff By The Sea, CA 92007
You deserve a happy, healthy life. Life and relationships can be increasingly painful, yet it is difficult to reach out for help. The longer we put off getting help, the worse things can become. I am here to support your growth and help you make needed changes. It is possible to learn to stop life patterns that keep us in a cycle of unhappiness. I confront in a gentle way so that you can begin to learn how to change those patterns.
You deserve a happy, healthy life. Life and relationships can be increasingly painful, yet it is difficult to reach out for help. The longer we put off getting help, the worse things can become. I am here to support your growth and help you make needed changes. It is possible to learn to stop life patterns that keep us in a cycle of unhappiness. I confront in a gentle way so that you can begin to learn how to change those patterns.
![Photo of James Hanson, BA , MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/57920ffe-c6af-41fe-87f0-bbd59ad4246c/2/320x400.jpeg)
James Hanson
Marriage & Family Therapist, BA , MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Cardiff By The Sea, CA 92007
James is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. James started his counseling career working with co-occurring mental health and addiction related issues. James has over five years of experience providing therapy services to adults, couples, and families to help them improve relationships, attain career satisfaction, enhance functioning, and promote connection and growth.
James is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. James started his counseling career working with co-occurring mental health and addiction related issues. James has over five years of experience providing therapy services to adults, couples, and families to help them improve relationships, attain career satisfaction, enhance functioning, and promote connection and growth.
![Photo of Julieann Myers - Center For Healthy Change, LCSW, MAC, CSAT, EMDR, EMDRIA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d12b448-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Center For Healthy Change
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MAC, CSAT, EMDR, EMDRIA
Verified Verified
Cardiff By The Sea, CA 92007
I am a psychotherapist trained in Clinical Social Work with more than 32 years of experience. Along with myself, my team of therapists has worked in every level of mental and community health care which gives us a breadth of understanding of the broad range of the human condition. We believe in Change and know that it is possible for those who want it. We work exclusively with a limited amount of clients at any given time and our practice caters to the most discerning of clients. If you are committed to working on Healthy Change and want a truly customized experience with highly skilled and authentic therapists contact us.
I am a psychotherapist trained in Clinical Social Work with more than 32 years of experience. Along with myself, my team of therapists has worked in every level of mental and community health care which gives us a breadth of understanding of the broad range of the human condition. We believe in Change and know that it is possible for those who want it. We work exclusively with a limited amount of clients at any given time and our practice caters to the most discerning of clients. If you are committed to working on Healthy Change and want a truly customized experience with highly skilled and authentic therapists contact us.
![Photo of Regina Huelsenbeck 'dr. Regina', PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/448e44c4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Regina Huelsenbeck 'dr. Regina'
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Cardiff By The Sea, CA 92007
Are you feeling lost or overwhelmed? Perhaps you are facing relationship issues, a divorce, a health crisis or a growing addiction. Whatever has guided you here is part of your path and not an accident. I am deeply grateful you are here. I can help you move through this difficult time with growth, grace and dignity. All you need to do is open your mind and heart and continue walking. My specialty is awakening through times of crises and transformation. There are no accidents; you are exactly where you are supposed to be in this moment. You Can Do This.
Are you feeling lost or overwhelmed? Perhaps you are facing relationship issues, a divorce, a health crisis or a growing addiction. Whatever has guided you here is part of your path and not an accident. I am deeply grateful you are here. I can help you move through this difficult time with growth, grace and dignity. All you need to do is open your mind and heart and continue walking. My specialty is awakening through times of crises and transformation. There are no accidents; you are exactly where you are supposed to be in this moment. You Can Do This.
![Photo of Daniel McGrath, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3eaa6070-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Feeling overwhelmed with managing in this fast paced world? Life is complex and it's often hard to handle the situations we face each day. Whether figuring out what to do about challenging children, issues in a close relationship, or which way to go as you move forward in life, uncertainties can stop anyone in their tracks. Few things are worse than feeling stuck and struggling when it seems like everyone else has it all figured out. It doesn't have to be that way. Things change, children mature, and if we're watching we find opportunities to heal, learn, and grow.
Feeling overwhelmed with managing in this fast paced world? Life is complex and it's often hard to handle the situations we face each day. Whether figuring out what to do about challenging children, issues in a close relationship, or which way to go as you move forward in life, uncertainties can stop anyone in their tracks. Few things are worse than feeling stuck and struggling when it seems like everyone else has it all figured out. It doesn't have to be that way. Things change, children mature, and if we're watching we find opportunities to heal, learn, and grow.
![Photo of Robyn Park - Transformative Marriage and Family Therapy, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/485fa8a8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Transformative Marriage and Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Cardiff By The Sea, CA 92007
For 25 years I have been doing a specific therapy that is structured with a beginning, middle, and end. It is healing from emotional immaturity due to childhood trauma. It is deep rooted therapy with actual tools and healing of wounds that stop us from living to full potential . Many have referred to it as the most transformative therapy that leads to generations of healing. Ideal client is high functioning with a need to recover from love addiction or love avoidance. I was trained by Pia Melody for the last 10 years. I am passionate about this therapy because of what it does for people. This is a therapy that has a structure.
For 25 years I have been doing a specific therapy that is structured with a beginning, middle, and end. It is healing from emotional immaturity due to childhood trauma. It is deep rooted therapy with actual tools and healing of wounds that stop us from living to full potential . Many have referred to it as the most transformative therapy that leads to generations of healing. Ideal client is high functioning with a need to recover from love addiction or love avoidance. I was trained by Pia Melody for the last 10 years. I am passionate about this therapy because of what it does for people. This is a therapy that has a structure.
![Photo of Hanalei Vierra, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5048a688-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Hanalei Vierra
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Cardiff By The Sea, CA 92007
Are you A GUY who feels confused and clueless about how to create a deeper emotional connection with your intimate partner? Perhaps just as important, is it possible for you to do that in a way that would not sacrifice your sense of masculinity?!? Not only is it possible for you to learn how to speak the Truth of how you feel in a way that will feel masculine, but it will also become a source of personal strength that will help you build a more mature and honest relationship with yourself and with the person you love. I have specialized in working with adult men for 35 years.
Are you A GUY who feels confused and clueless about how to create a deeper emotional connection with your intimate partner? Perhaps just as important, is it possible for you to do that in a way that would not sacrifice your sense of masculinity?!? Not only is it possible for you to learn how to speak the Truth of how you feel in a way that will feel masculine, but it will also become a source of personal strength that will help you build a more mature and honest relationship with yourself and with the person you love. I have specialized in working with adult men for 35 years.
![Photo of Katherine Queiroz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/67234bd6-e0da-45bd-8489-f429ea5897b2/2/320x400.png)
Katherine Queiroz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cardiff By The Sea, CA 92007 (Online Only)
Hello and Welcome! As a therapist with experience in various settings, I bring a wealth of knowledge and skills to my practice. With a deep commitment to helping my clients take care of their mental health, I provide a supportive and non-judgmental environment where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I have extensive experience working with a diverse range of individuals and groups, including children, adolescents, and adults. Ultimately, my goal is to help my clients build the skills and resilience they need to cope with life's challenges and achieve optimal mental health and well-being.
Hello and Welcome! As a therapist with experience in various settings, I bring a wealth of knowledge and skills to my practice. With a deep commitment to helping my clients take care of their mental health, I provide a supportive and non-judgmental environment where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I have extensive experience working with a diverse range of individuals and groups, including children, adolescents, and adults. Ultimately, my goal is to help my clients build the skills and resilience they need to cope with life's challenges and achieve optimal mental health and well-being.
![Photo of Whitney McLennan, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a3e0a94d-ba7d-4eb0-8db7-ac89263daae8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Whitney McLennan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Cardiff By The Sea, CA 92007 (Online Only)
Working through difficult experiences and emotions can be challenging. It can be even harder to make desired changes in ones life when certain patterns have been established for so long. I work hard to ensure that my clients feel safe and supported throughout this process. By creating a comfortable and lighthearted environment, individuals, families, and couples are able to gain some reprieve from the difficulties they are experiencing. This allows change to begin to occur in the lives of my clients.
Working through difficult experiences and emotions can be challenging. It can be even harder to make desired changes in ones life when certain patterns have been established for so long. I work hard to ensure that my clients feel safe and supported throughout this process. By creating a comfortable and lighthearted environment, individuals, families, and couples are able to gain some reprieve from the difficulties they are experiencing. This allows change to begin to occur in the lives of my clients.
![Photo of Jenna Suway, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/32a938c8-b023-44cb-9534-1758d03751c2/2/320x400.jpeg)
I help adolescents and adults navigate difficulties in their lives. Some of the treatment areas in which I work relate to identity, anxiety, transitions, values, trauma, and mood. My goal is to create an open and safe environment from which to explore, process, and learn. It is an honor to get to know you and to work collaboratively to address whatever brings you to therapy. I look forward to talking with you.
I help adolescents and adults navigate difficulties in their lives. Some of the treatment areas in which I work relate to identity, anxiety, transitions, values, trauma, and mood. My goal is to create an open and safe environment from which to explore, process, and learn. It is an honor to get to know you and to work collaboratively to address whatever brings you to therapy. I look forward to talking with you.
![Photo of Colleen Mullen, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/41f67c1b-6ef3-4643-b548-7249a1fe1955/1/320x400.jpeg)
Colleen Mullen
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Cardiff By The Sea, CA 92007 (Online Only)
Aug-12/24 No appointments available. Do you struggle between doing it all while also feeling like, "Why do I bother?" Life can be overwhelming. When you've been in "go mode" forever it's difficult to find time to even think about what you might want from your life. I have a deep understanding of the unique struggles faced by ambitious perfectionists. The constant pursuit of excellence can lead to burnout and strain on personal relationships. If you find it difficult to maintain a healthy work-life balance and want to learn to manage the chaos in your life to feel more fulfilled and have more time for what makes you happy, call me.
Aug-12/24 No appointments available. Do you struggle between doing it all while also feeling like, "Why do I bother?" Life can be overwhelming. When you've been in "go mode" forever it's difficult to find time to even think about what you might want from your life. I have a deep understanding of the unique struggles faced by ambitious perfectionists. The constant pursuit of excellence can lead to burnout and strain on personal relationships. If you find it difficult to maintain a healthy work-life balance and want to learn to manage the chaos in your life to feel more fulfilled and have more time for what makes you happy, call me.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Jay Wick, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49fabae5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I believe in treating the underlying issues that led to excessive substance use in the first place, and help to facilitate a change in which individuals, couples, or families can manage their distress in healthier ways.
I work with individuals, couples and families, ranging from middle school age upward. My primary focus, no matter the age or presenting problem, is to provide a nonjudgmental and unconditional space to process whatever difficulties you may be facing. I take a collaborative approach to sessions, meaning we work together each week to determine the best goals for your particular circumstance. I have an extensive background, both personal and professional, in the helping navigate the various challenges that come with substance abuse. I bring a level of understanding to the recovery process that can only be gained by having lived it.
I believe in treating the underlying issues that led to excessive substance use in the first place, and help to facilitate a change in which individuals, couples, or families can manage their distress in healthier ways.
I work with individuals, couples and families, ranging from middle school age upward. My primary focus, no matter the age or presenting problem, is to provide a nonjudgmental and unconditional space to process whatever difficulties you may be facing. I take a collaborative approach to sessions, meaning we work together each week to determine the best goals for your particular circumstance. I have an extensive background, both personal and professional, in the helping navigate the various challenges that come with substance abuse. I bring a level of understanding to the recovery process that can only be gained by having lived it.
![Photo of Spenser Gabin, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/257153ba-92b7-4be1-901c-ad4e078cd104/2/320x400.jpeg)
Anxiety and OCD are my specialties but I also have some training in alcohol and substance use issues, as I completed my practicum at Sharp McDonald Center, a residential substance use treatment facility.
The therapeutic relationship can be an invaluable opportunity to foster growth, take intelligent risks, and rewrite unhelpful narratives. Often the most important and difficult changes in life are internal. Moreover, the most critical changes can begin with the acceptance of a painful reality. Sometimes it is helpful to explore these realities with a supportive individual who has some distance from the situation. I find the most successful clients are curious about their own beliefs and feelings. While they want to be challenged, they also believe in the necessity of self-compassion.
Anxiety and OCD are my specialties but I also have some training in alcohol and substance use issues, as I completed my practicum at Sharp McDonald Center, a residential substance use treatment facility.
The therapeutic relationship can be an invaluable opportunity to foster growth, take intelligent risks, and rewrite unhelpful narratives. Often the most important and difficult changes in life are internal. Moreover, the most critical changes can begin with the acceptance of a painful reality. Sometimes it is helpful to explore these realities with a supportive individual who has some distance from the situation. I find the most successful clients are curious about their own beliefs and feelings. While they want to be challenged, they also believe in the necessity of self-compassion.
![Photo of Michelle MacPherson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2cc6cd74-8625-40ea-ad11-0e9c82e981b4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle MacPherson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Solana Beach, CA 92075 (Online Only)
I treat substance use.
Hello! Many of my clients feel "stuck", like they're not Iiving their best life. I help my clients manage negative thoughts, provide clarity and support during transitional life and relationship issues, address self-sabotaging behaviors and increase coping skills. I provide a therapeutic space to help get you “unstuck”, enhance your motivation and navigate the stressors of life with improved overall functioning. Enhancing overall physical, mental and emotional health is the most rewarding aspect of my practice. and I rely heavily on the latest advances in behavioral science to provide the best therapeutic services available.
I treat substance use.
Hello! Many of my clients feel "stuck", like they're not Iiving their best life. I help my clients manage negative thoughts, provide clarity and support during transitional life and relationship issues, address self-sabotaging behaviors and increase coping skills. I provide a therapeutic space to help get you “unstuck”, enhance your motivation and navigate the stressors of life with improved overall functioning. Enhancing overall physical, mental and emotional health is the most rewarding aspect of my practice. and I rely heavily on the latest advances in behavioral science to provide the best therapeutic services available.
![Photo of Connie Padera, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7f773786-15f8-407e-a480-64abdd2b166d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Connie Padera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cardiff, CA 92007 (Online Only)
Are you struggling with substance use or disordered eating habits? Or maybe you need some guidance on self-esteem or relationship issues? It's okay to not be okay, and I'm here to help you through whatever life has brought your way. I believe in treating each these issues from a whole person perspective, and will work with you to enrich all areas of your well-being. Through openhearted and compassionate communication, we will create a safe space for you to mindfully explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and identify which among them no longer serve you.
Are you struggling with substance use or disordered eating habits? Or maybe you need some guidance on self-esteem or relationship issues? It's okay to not be okay, and I'm here to help you through whatever life has brought your way. I believe in treating each these issues from a whole person perspective, and will work with you to enrich all areas of your well-being. Through openhearted and compassionate communication, we will create a safe space for you to mindfully explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and identify which among them no longer serve you.
![Photo of David Serbin, MA, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/12d5d2d4-3f2b-445f-ac92-cd8fb8512d95/1/320x400.jpeg)
David Serbin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Solana Beach, CA 92075 (Online Only)
I have extensive experience working with couples, substance use counseling, veterans issues, depression, and anxiety.
Are you feeling tired, depressed, anxious? Have you ever felt as though you were too depressed to even get out of bed? It’s easy for our negative thoughts to consume us. This is because our brains have a hardwired negativity bias that helped our ancestors survive. For this reason, we are left with brains that often focus on the negative, while minimizing the positive aspects of our lives. It can seem like our brains cut out the positive components of our being, like a deleted scene from a movie.
I have extensive experience working with couples, substance use counseling, veterans issues, depression, and anxiety.
Are you feeling tired, depressed, anxious? Have you ever felt as though you were too depressed to even get out of bed? It’s easy for our negative thoughts to consume us. This is because our brains have a hardwired negativity bias that helped our ancestors survive. For this reason, we are left with brains that often focus on the negative, while minimizing the positive aspects of our lives. It can seem like our brains cut out the positive components of our being, like a deleted scene from a movie.
![Photo of Kelsey Michael Bradshaw, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44136990-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
My specialties include evidence-based interventions, behavior management training, anxiety and mood disorders, trauma informed care, substance use disorders, and adjustments to life changes (e.
Greetings! I am a psychologist providing therapy and assessment services. My background is in treating youth, young adults, and families. I primarily utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) with an emphasis on acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). I offer virtual-based sessions but primarily work in the office. Assessment services (psychological testing, psychological evaluation) is also a major focus of mine. I specialize in assessment of autism, ADHD, and academics, as well as general psychodiagnostic assessment (clarifying diagnoses) in kids and adults (6 years and older).
My specialties include evidence-based interventions, behavior management training, anxiety and mood disorders, trauma informed care, substance use disorders, and adjustments to life changes (e.
Greetings! I am a psychologist providing therapy and assessment services. My background is in treating youth, young adults, and families. I primarily utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) with an emphasis on acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). I offer virtual-based sessions but primarily work in the office. Assessment services (psychological testing, psychological evaluation) is also a major focus of mine. I specialize in assessment of autism, ADHD, and academics, as well as general psychodiagnostic assessment (clarifying diagnoses) in kids and adults (6 years and older).
![Photo of Leo Martinez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a19821e4-78f5-4b20-bc44-aca34b9df330/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a licensed clinical social worker with over a decade of experience. I specialize in mental health wellness with a concentration on substance use and psychiatric disorders. As a faculty member for Gorski CENAPs I teach and share ways that I have used his model both with clients and personally as a person in long term recovery. Previously, I was a professor at California State University East Bay teaching Masters level students clinical theory and skills. My greatest honor though has been my service as a Marine where I learned leadership, the importance of camaraderie, and how to access resilience even when I felt defeated.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with over a decade of experience. I specialize in mental health wellness with a concentration on substance use and psychiatric disorders. As a faculty member for Gorski CENAPs I teach and share ways that I have used his model both with clients and personally as a person in long term recovery. Previously, I was a professor at California State University East Bay teaching Masters level students clinical theory and skills. My greatest honor though has been my service as a Marine where I learned leadership, the importance of camaraderie, and how to access resilience even when I felt defeated.
![Photo of Jessica Belter, LCSW, LICSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ed27b8d1-18ca-4c97-82ac-d379a93b02fa/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Belter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Encinitas, CA 92024
Using an eclectic mix of experiential, CBT, acceptance and commitment therapy, 12-step, and attachment theory, I seek to address problems related to; substance use, eating disorders, PTSD, depression, anxiety, codependency, love addiction and more.
I am licensed in CA, AZ and MN and can provide telehealth for each of those states. Who doesn't want freedom in all aspects of life? I believe that true freedom comes from transformation of self from the inside out. We are not on this planet to struggle, rather to find the courage to let our light shine. If you are feeling stuck in your relationships, career, family, or any other aspect of life perhaps it is time for a change. Life is short.
Using an eclectic mix of experiential, CBT, acceptance and commitment therapy, 12-step, and attachment theory, I seek to address problems related to; substance use, eating disorders, PTSD, depression, anxiety, codependency, love addiction and more.
I am licensed in CA, AZ and MN and can provide telehealth for each of those states. Who doesn't want freedom in all aspects of life? I believe that true freedom comes from transformation of self from the inside out. We are not on this planet to struggle, rather to find the courage to let our light shine. If you are feeling stuck in your relationships, career, family, or any other aspect of life perhaps it is time for a change. Life is short.
See more therapy options for Cardiff By The Sea
Nearby Substance Use Therapists Searches for Cardiff By The Sea
- Del Mar
- Encinitas
- Escondido
- La Jolla
- Oceanside
- Poway
- Rancho Santa Fe
- San Diego
- San Marcos
- Santee
- Solana Beach
- Vista
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.