Substance Use Therapists in Carlsbad, CA

Photo of Jay Wick, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jay Wick
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Carlsbad, CA 92008
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.
(760) 227-7471 View (760) 227-7471
Photo of Stephanie Hassani, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Stephanie Hassani
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carlsbad, CA 92010  (Online Only)
Over the past 17 years, my career has focused on working with tweens, teens and adults struggling with trauma, self harm, suicidal ideation, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, substance use and parenting difficulties.
At times we become stuck in patterns that lead to self-defeat, frustration, despair and hopelessness.  Psychotherapy is a process that can help individuals and families move in new directions, fostering psychological growth and a sense of well being. With warmth, humor, and honesty, I strive to create a space where you can feel supported, seen, and safe to explore patterns that are no longer serving you. Wherever you find yourself today, I can guide you along the path of discovering your natural ability to heal, to love and to live a healthy and fulfilling life.
Over the past 17 years, my career has focused on working with tweens, teens and adults struggling with trauma, self harm, suicidal ideation, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, substance use and parenting difficulties.
At times we become stuck in patterns that lead to self-defeat, frustration, despair and hopelessness.  Psychotherapy is a process that can help individuals and families move in new directions, fostering psychological growth and a sense of well being. With warmth, humor, and honesty, I strive to create a space where you can feel supported, seen, and safe to explore patterns that are no longer serving you. Wherever you find yourself today, I can guide you along the path of discovering your natural ability to heal, to love and to live a healthy and fulfilling life.
(760) 303-1883 View (760) 303-1883
Photo of Angela Klein, PhD, Psychologist
Angela Klein
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carlsbad, CA 92008
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in the greater San Diego area. I specialize in treating disordered eating, self-harm, suicidality, and pervasive anxiety and mood disorders, as well as substance use, in adolescents, families, and adults. My book "Mindful Eating from the Dialectical Perspective: Research and Application" is available from Routledge and Amazon. I emphasize concrete behavioral strategies and validation to foster balance, self-awareness, and connection. Creating lasting change can seem daunting--and I can support you in this journey, with tools to help you take one step at a time, to ultimately achieve your goals.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in the greater San Diego area. I specialize in treating disordered eating, self-harm, suicidality, and pervasive anxiety and mood disorders, as well as substance use, in adolescents, families, and adults. My book "Mindful Eating from the Dialectical Perspective: Research and Application" is available from Routledge and Amazon. I emphasize concrete behavioral strategies and validation to foster balance, self-awareness, and connection. Creating lasting change can seem daunting--and I can support you in this journey, with tools to help you take one step at a time, to ultimately achieve your goals.
(573) 202-6601 View (573) 202-6601
Photo of Kelsey Michael Bradshaw, PhD, Psychologist
Kelsey Michael Bradshaw
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Carlsbad, CA 92008
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).
(760) 378-7474 View (760) 378-7474
Photo of Kristin Colton, CADCIII, CATCIII, RYT 250, MFT T, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Kristin Colton
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CADCIII, CATCIII, RYT 250, MFT T
Verified Verified
Carlsbad, CA 92008
Kristin has been helping people in addiction recovery treatment since 1997 and has continued to find her work exciting and purposeful. She has expertise in all areas of substance use disorders as well as treating co-occurring disorders such as depression and anxiety. Kristin also works with individuals who struggle with eating disorders, sexual addiction, and other behavioral and process addictions. Kristin has studied Life Coaching as well as becoming certified in Yoga and Pranayama Breathwork and has found many evidence based and holistic practices to be extremely healing in her work as well as personal experience.
Kristin has been helping people in addiction recovery treatment since 1997 and has continued to find her work exciting and purposeful. She has expertise in all areas of substance use disorders as well as treating co-occurring disorders such as depression and anxiety. Kristin also works with individuals who struggle with eating disorders, sexual addiction, and other behavioral and process addictions. Kristin has studied Life Coaching as well as becoming certified in Yoga and Pranayama Breathwork and has found many evidence based and holistic practices to be extremely healing in her work as well as personal experience.
(949) 558-2647 View (949) 558-2647
Photo of Jessica Flowers-Guerrero, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jessica Flowers-Guerrero
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Carlsbad, CA 92011  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with individuals and families. I have experience assisting my clients in working through depression, anxiety, anger, perinatal mood disorders, substance use, behavioral issues, parenting issues, women's issues, and trauma. I believe that for my clients to have space for growth, they need an environment that is trusting, non-judgmental, validating, and supportive. In working with me, I hope that my clients will feel seen, heard, and understood. My ultimate goal is to help my clients feel empowered to live the life they desire and achieve alignment with who they are, balance, and overall wellness.
I enjoy working with individuals and families. I have experience assisting my clients in working through depression, anxiety, anger, perinatal mood disorders, substance use, behavioral issues, parenting issues, women's issues, and trauma. I believe that for my clients to have space for growth, they need an environment that is trusting, non-judgmental, validating, and supportive. In working with me, I hope that my clients will feel seen, heard, and understood. My ultimate goal is to help my clients feel empowered to live the life they desire and achieve alignment with who they are, balance, and overall wellness.
(310) 651-7795 View (310) 651-7795
Photo of Philip Silverman, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Philip Silverman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Carlsbad, CA 92009
My name is Phil Silverman, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA. I work primarily from a psychodynamic framework, with a focus not only on symptom relief but on making substantive changes and assisting individuals in breaking free from unhealthy and unhelpful patterns impacting their well-being, career, and relationships. Traumas can result in unconscious "triggers" that wreak havoc on a person’s goals for health, intimacy, success, sense of connection, or even the ability to process grief, and can manifest in the form of unmanageable anxiety, depression, substance use, existential dilemmas, self-sabotage, feeling stuck, etc.
My name is Phil Silverman, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA. I work primarily from a psychodynamic framework, with a focus not only on symptom relief but on making substantive changes and assisting individuals in breaking free from unhealthy and unhelpful patterns impacting their well-being, career, and relationships. Traumas can result in unconscious "triggers" that wreak havoc on a person’s goals for health, intimacy, success, sense of connection, or even the ability to process grief, and can manifest in the form of unmanageable anxiety, depression, substance use, existential dilemmas, self-sabotage, feeling stuck, etc.
(949) 356-7611 View (949) 356-7611
Photo of Vicki A Dyar, MS, LPCC, Counselor
Vicki A Dyar
Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carlsbad, CA 92008  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience with people with substance use issues, many struggling with severe depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, psychosis, borderline personality disorder, narcissistic personality disorder, suicidality and self-injurious behaviors.
I am a psychotherapist who offers a compassionate, thoughtful, and empathetic approach to therapy. I help individuals increase curiosity and understanding about their life experiences, and identify and work through blocks to healthy relationships, balance, and overall well-being.
I have extensive experience with people with substance use issues, many struggling with severe depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, psychosis, borderline personality disorder, narcissistic personality disorder, suicidality and self-injurious behaviors.
I am a psychotherapist who offers a compassionate, thoughtful, and empathetic approach to therapy. I help individuals increase curiosity and understanding about their life experiences, and identify and work through blocks to healthy relationships, balance, and overall well-being.
(760) 684-4821 View (760) 684-4821
Photo of Summer Silva, PsyD, Psychologist
Summer Silva
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Carlsbad, CA 92008  (Online Only)
I have extreme passion and enthusiasm for guiding clients through the journey of finding peace, balance, and happiness. My areas of focus: Trauma/Abuse/PTSD, Eating Disorders, Borderline PD. I am also fluent in American Sign Language and have a wealth of knowledge regarding the Deaf and CODA cultures. My specialty areas include: Substance Use/Chemical Dependency, Mindfulness and Meditation, Relationships and Communication, Behavior Modification, Depression, and Anxiety. Homeopathy and Flower Essence practitioner; a natural way to stimulate healing emotionally and physically. Non-local appointments available. I received my doctorate degree from the California School of Professional Psychology at Alliant International University in San Diego.
I have extreme passion and enthusiasm for guiding clients through the journey of finding peace, balance, and happiness. My areas of focus: Trauma/Abuse/PTSD, Eating Disorders, Borderline PD. I am also fluent in American Sign Language and have a wealth of knowledge regarding the Deaf and CODA cultures. My specialty areas include: Substance Use/Chemical Dependency, Mindfulness and Meditation, Relationships and Communication, Behavior Modification, Depression, and Anxiety. Homeopathy and Flower Essence practitioner; a natural way to stimulate healing emotionally and physically. Non-local appointments available. I received my doctorate degree from the California School of Professional Psychology at Alliant International University in San Diego.
(760) 237-8865 View (760) 237-8865
Photo of Kansas (James) Cafferty, LMFT, MAC, ICAP IV, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kansas (James) Cafferty
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MAC, ICAP IV
Verified Verified
Carlsbad, CA 92008
Thanks for visiting me in this leg of your journey. I have worked in the fields of mental health and substance use disorders since 1997. I have worked all levels of care from acute hospitalization to weekly therapy. I have experience with adolescents, first responders, survivors of trauma, and those afflicted with varied addictions among other issues such as mood disorders and anxiety. I also provide independent substance use evaluations and expert witness testimony for family court cases. I am also approved by the NFL Players Assoc. to work with current and former players.
Thanks for visiting me in this leg of your journey. I have worked in the fields of mental health and substance use disorders since 1997. I have worked all levels of care from acute hospitalization to weekly therapy. I have experience with adolescents, first responders, survivors of trauma, and those afflicted with varied addictions among other issues such as mood disorders and anxiety. I also provide independent substance use evaluations and expert witness testimony for family court cases. I am also approved by the NFL Players Assoc. to work with current and former players.
(442) 200-1345 View (442) 200-1345
Photo of Julia Mamelak, PsyD, Psychologist
Julia Mamelak
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Carlsbad, CA 92011  (Online Only)
Dr. Julia Mamelak is a licensed clinical psychologist, specializing in the treatment of depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use, and relationship difficulties. While Dr. Mamelak works with clients across the developmental lifespan, she has additional expertise in providing evidence-based therapies to young adults.
Dr. Julia Mamelak is a licensed clinical psychologist, specializing in the treatment of depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use, and relationship difficulties. While Dr. Mamelak works with clients across the developmental lifespan, she has additional expertise in providing evidence-based therapies to young adults.
(310) 933-4988 View (310) 933-4988
Photo of Morgan Brown - Morgan Brown, CADC-I | Bloom Family Therapy, CADC-I, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Morgan Brown, CADC-I | Bloom Family Therapy
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CADC-I
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carlsbad, CA 92008  (Online Only)
At Bloom Therapy, I specialize in the areas of adoption, justice-involved youth and co-occurring disorders as they relate to underlying causes of substance use disorders.
With a warm and empathetic approach, my hopes are to create a safe and non-judgmental space for you to explore underlying causes of addiction. Together we will create personalized coping strategies for a healthy tomorrow. My passion lies with teens and young adults who struggle with substance use as I relate to this population on a deep level.
At Bloom Therapy, I specialize in the areas of adoption, justice-involved youth and co-occurring disorders as they relate to underlying causes of substance use disorders.
With a warm and empathetic approach, my hopes are to create a safe and non-judgmental space for you to explore underlying causes of addiction. Together we will create personalized coping strategies for a healthy tomorrow. My passion lies with teens and young adults who struggle with substance use as I relate to this population on a deep level.
(619) 815-3314 View (619) 815-3314
Photo of Carolyn Rhoades, MA, LPCC
Carolyn Rhoades
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Carlsbad, CA 92013
Whether you are struggling with anxiety, substance use, trauma, rejection or loss, I am here to support you.
Distressing thoughts and memories can keep us feeling like we are stranded in the past. Every time we have tried to dig ourselves out, shame, guilt, and overwhelming thoughts keep us feeling stuck. These feelings and thoughts can feel so isolating and exhausting. Traumatic experiences can have a detrimental impact on how individuals cope with stress and regulate emotions. I understand that at various times in our lives we endure situations that can cause distress, leading to unhealthy behaviors and patterns. We can feel completely lost in figuring out how to proceed and it can be daunting to reach out for support.
Whether you are struggling with anxiety, substance use, trauma, rejection or loss, I am here to support you.
Distressing thoughts and memories can keep us feeling like we are stranded in the past. Every time we have tried to dig ourselves out, shame, guilt, and overwhelming thoughts keep us feeling stuck. These feelings and thoughts can feel so isolating and exhausting. Traumatic experiences can have a detrimental impact on how individuals cope with stress and regulate emotions. I understand that at various times in our lives we endure situations that can cause distress, leading to unhealthy behaviors and patterns. We can feel completely lost in figuring out how to proceed and it can be daunting to reach out for support.
(858) 358-7780 View (858) 358-7780
Photo of Jessica Belter, LCSW, LICSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Belter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Carlsbad, CA 92008
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.
(612) 260-1593 View (612) 260-1593
Photo of Chris Peterson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Chris Peterson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Carlsbad, CA 92011
Specialty areas include complex trauma therapy (Trauma-Focused CBT Certified), substance use management, individual, couples and family systems therapy, and suicidal and defiant children and teens.
My clients are individuals who often carry with them unresolved feelings from either their past or present challenges. Viewing those issues from an objective and trusted practitioner is vital to the change process. Always viewing my clients with unconditional positive regard is essential to us being successful. Therapy can often be the first time someone gets to step out of the day to day of their lives. My hope is during this introspection, I can coach you in the direction you need to go, not where my training thinks you should go. While I may illuminate potential paths, you're taking the steps with me right behind you!
Specialty areas include complex trauma therapy (Trauma-Focused CBT Certified), substance use management, individual, couples and family systems therapy, and suicidal and defiant children and teens.
My clients are individuals who often carry with them unresolved feelings from either their past or present challenges. Viewing those issues from an objective and trusted practitioner is vital to the change process. Always viewing my clients with unconditional positive regard is essential to us being successful. Therapy can often be the first time someone gets to step out of the day to day of their lives. My hope is during this introspection, I can coach you in the direction you need to go, not where my training thinks you should go. While I may illuminate potential paths, you're taking the steps with me right behind you!
(760) 642-5557 View (760) 642-5557
Photo of Reyna Sotelo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Reyna Sotelo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Carlsbad, CA 92009
I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and adults struggling with behavioral concerns, reaching their academic goals, bullying, peer pressure, substance use, parenting issues, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, self-esteem, life transitions/adjustment issues, complex trauma, and attachment issues.
For the past 10 years, I've diversified my professional experience through work, in a variety of mental health treatment facilities, serving several age groups from different backgrounds. I have worked in group homes, detention centers, adult reentry programs, inpatient residential treatment centers, a school district, and family law court. This multi-faceted background has provided me with a unique perspective and approach to those seeking therapy services. I enjoy working with people! I offer a quiet and welcoming space via Telehealth. I'm compassionate and good-humored.
I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and adults struggling with behavioral concerns, reaching their academic goals, bullying, peer pressure, substance use, parenting issues, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, self-esteem, life transitions/adjustment issues, complex trauma, and attachment issues.
For the past 10 years, I've diversified my professional experience through work, in a variety of mental health treatment facilities, serving several age groups from different backgrounds. I have worked in group homes, detention centers, adult reentry programs, inpatient residential treatment centers, a school district, and family law court. This multi-faceted background has provided me with a unique perspective and approach to those seeking therapy services. I enjoy working with people! I offer a quiet and welcoming space via Telehealth. I'm compassionate and good-humored.
(657) 837-5912 View (657) 837-5912
Photo of Veronika Noble, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Veronika Noble
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Carlsbad, CA 92008
Frustrated or tired of going through the motions? Continually trying and pretending behind a fake smile? Feeling like a failure? Or just not quite good enough?
Frustrated or tired of going through the motions? Continually trying and pretending behind a fake smile? Feeling like a failure? Or just not quite good enough?
(858) 352-7564 View (858) 352-7564
Photo of Nora Jenkins - Drug Rehabs Carlsbad | Drug Rehabs San Diego, CADC l, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Drug Rehabs Carlsbad | Drug Rehabs San Diego
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CADC l
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carlsbad, CA 92009
Inpatient drug rehabs Carlsbad and drug rehabs San Diego for inpatient substance abuse medical care accepting most insurances like TRICARE. This inpatient drug rehabs San Diego alcohol addiction treatment centers with alcohol and drug detox centers in Escondido, California. HGR drug rehabs has a full continuum of care. We are evidence based and connect our clients to 12-step teachings. Credentialed and experience therapists provide individual and group counseling. The drug rehabs Carlsbad protocol includes family engagement in the process. If you are looking for inpatient drug rehabs California or in Escondido, CA give us a call.
Inpatient drug rehabs Carlsbad and drug rehabs San Diego for inpatient substance abuse medical care accepting most insurances like TRICARE. This inpatient drug rehabs San Diego alcohol addiction treatment centers with alcohol and drug detox centers in Escondido, California. HGR drug rehabs has a full continuum of care. We are evidence based and connect our clients to 12-step teachings. Credentialed and experience therapists provide individual and group counseling. The drug rehabs Carlsbad protocol includes family engagement in the process. If you are looking for inpatient drug rehabs California or in Escondido, CA give us a call.
(442) 245-8034 View (442) 245-8034
Photo of Cassandra Cannon, PhD, Psychologist
Cassandra Cannon
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carlsbad, CA 92010  (Online Only)
***I only offer online therapy.*** You've experienced sexual trauma in the past and you're ready to face it. . . But you don't really know how - or who - can help you. Your past does not need to define you - let me help you get there! Call me for a free phone consultation. ***I only offer online therapy.***
***I only offer online therapy.*** You've experienced sexual trauma in the past and you're ready to face it. . . But you don't really know how - or who - can help you. Your past does not need to define you - let me help you get there! Call me for a free phone consultation. ***I only offer online therapy.***
(760) 423-4737 View (760) 423-4737
Photo of Alex Urrutia, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alex Urrutia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Carlsbad, CA 92011  (Online Only)
I have worked in several areas of mental health care and have truly found my purpose and passion in assisting those who struggle with trauma and/or addiction. I understand how trauma has been locked within the psyche and having an individual feel as though they are stuck within themselves. I understand that addiction was a solution to several problems at the time because it allowed relief, but in reality it only masked the underlying issues. My goal for each of my clients is to have them recognize their own strengths and abilities so they may continue or begin to live meaningful lives.
I have worked in several areas of mental health care and have truly found my purpose and passion in assisting those who struggle with trauma and/or addiction. I understand how trauma has been locked within the psyche and having an individual feel as though they are stuck within themselves. I understand that addiction was a solution to several problems at the time because it allowed relief, but in reality it only masked the underlying issues. My goal for each of my clients is to have them recognize their own strengths and abilities so they may continue or begin to live meaningful lives.
(415) 639-5442 View (415) 639-5442
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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.