Drug Abuse Therapists in Cerritos, CA

Photo of Sandra K Kaumaya, MS, LMFT, ARFA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sandra K Kaumaya
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, ARFA
Verified Verified
Cerritos, CA 90703
Painful situations at home or work can limit your happiness in life, Through counseling (EAP) Programs or Individual or family counseling can help. As a therapist I assist children/family individuals regarding ADD ODD ADHD Phobic / Anxiety and Depression problems. Victims of Crime/ Domestic Violence PTSD Post-Partum Depression Inappropriate Behavior Patterns, self-destructive behavior(cutting) in children can be minimized with therapy. I utilize Cognitive Behavior Therapy especially with children. I provide methods of stress management and conflict resolution, including depressed /anxious patients due to the physical limitations of surgery Counseling can help minimize feelings of hopelessness and isolation,
Painful situations at home or work can limit your happiness in life, Through counseling (EAP) Programs or Individual or family counseling can help. As a therapist I assist children/family individuals regarding ADD ODD ADHD Phobic / Anxiety and Depression problems. Victims of Crime/ Domestic Violence PTSD Post-Partum Depression Inappropriate Behavior Patterns, self-destructive behavior(cutting) in children can be minimized with therapy. I utilize Cognitive Behavior Therapy especially with children. I provide methods of stress management and conflict resolution, including depressed /anxious patients due to the physical limitations of surgery Counseling can help minimize feelings of hopelessness and isolation,
(562) 841-0348 View (562) 841-0348
Photo of Soheila Ferdowsian, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Soheila Ferdowsian
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Cerritos, CA 90703  (Online Only)
Hi there, I'm Soheila. Do you feel pulled in a million directions, unable to fit it all in? Are you struggling to keep up with life challenges, relationships, work and health? I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I have received my Master’s Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from California State University Long Beach. My specialties include dual diagnosis, Drugs and Alcohol, depression, Anxiety, stress management, family issues, addiction, and life management. I am fluent in English, and Farsi. I aim to help my clients in utilizing interventions from Cognitive-behavioral Model to explore & resolve core issues…
Hi there, I'm Soheila. Do you feel pulled in a million directions, unable to fit it all in? Are you struggling to keep up with life challenges, relationships, work and health? I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I have received my Master’s Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from California State University Long Beach. My specialties include dual diagnosis, Drugs and Alcohol, depression, Anxiety, stress management, family issues, addiction, and life management. I am fluent in English, and Farsi. I aim to help my clients in utilizing interventions from Cognitive-behavioral Model to explore & resolve core issues…
(562) 580-4393 View (562) 580-4393
Photo of David Brown - Remarkable Services, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Remarkable Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Cerritos, CA 90703
Life can feel uncertain and mixed emotions can make it difficult to know what to do. As your therapist, I want you to leave feeling heard, understood, accepted, and empowered. Sessions are centered around you and your experiences. Using a narrative approach, we work together to create a life narrative that highlights your strengths, history, and how you have worked to thrive. My role is to support you and walk alongside you through this time in life.
Life can feel uncertain and mixed emotions can make it difficult to know what to do. As your therapist, I want you to leave feeling heard, understood, accepted, and empowered. Sessions are centered around you and your experiences. Using a narrative approach, we work together to create a life narrative that highlights your strengths, history, and how you have worked to thrive. My role is to support you and walk alongside you through this time in life.
(562) 307-8710 View (562) 307-8710
Photo of Dean Leav - Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean, PsyD, QME, Author, Psychologist
Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Cerritos, CA 90703
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
(949) 461-1089 View (949) 461-1089
Photo of Dean Leav - Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean, PsyD, QME, Author, Psychologist
Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Cerritos, CA 90703
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
(949) 649-8350 View (949) 649-8350
Photo of Tristin Engels, LCP, Psychologist
Tristin Engels
Psychologist, LCP
Verified Verified
Cerritos, CA 90703
Hi! My name is Dr. Tristin Engels (PSY29403), and I am a licensed Clinical and Forensic Psychologist. My experience has taught me that the most important aspect of effective therapy is building and maintaining a therapeutic rapport. Without that, treatment success will be negatively impacted. As a clinical forensic psychologist, I have worked with extremely diverse and underserved populations for the majority of my career. This has been invaluable in allowing me exposure and experience working with nearly all mental health conditions, understanding cultural sensitivity and building rapport with the most resistant of clients.
Hi! My name is Dr. Tristin Engels (PSY29403), and I am a licensed Clinical and Forensic Psychologist. My experience has taught me that the most important aspect of effective therapy is building and maintaining a therapeutic rapport. Without that, treatment success will be negatively impacted. As a clinical forensic psychologist, I have worked with extremely diverse and underserved populations for the majority of my career. This has been invaluable in allowing me exposure and experience working with nearly all mental health conditions, understanding cultural sensitivity and building rapport with the most resistant of clients.
(424) 588-3916 View (424) 588-3916
Photo of Paul Kramer, EdD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Paul Kramer
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Cerritos, CA 90703
At some point we all struggle to adjustment to life's changes; it's normal to feel stuck and I believe people have what it takes to adjust. For the past 20 years, I have been working with children and teens who are struggling to balance the demands of school and their social life. I integrate parents in my work as much as possible. I also work with adults and Couples often come to me for help in distress and are confused about how or why their relationship has derailed. I am dedicated to helping people build stronger; more intimate relationships and I use several modalities when attempting to help couples in distress.
At some point we all struggle to adjustment to life's changes; it's normal to feel stuck and I believe people have what it takes to adjust. For the past 20 years, I have been working with children and teens who are struggling to balance the demands of school and their social life. I integrate parents in my work as much as possible. I also work with adults and Couples often come to me for help in distress and are confused about how or why their relationship has derailed. I am dedicated to helping people build stronger; more intimate relationships and I use several modalities when attempting to help couples in distress.
(925) 320-0698 View (925) 320-0698
Photo of Patrick Cleveland, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Patrick Cleveland
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cerritos, CA 90703
Taking the first step toward getting help is the hardest part and I understand that. I am the founder & clinical director of Daybreak Counseling Center. We are an elite & dedicated group of therapists. We focus on providing a safe and nonjudgemental environment in order to help you speak freely, share your story, ask questions, and face any issues that arise. In beginning this inquiry, today you are one step closer to finding answers and solutions. Whether you are feeling down, anxious, confused, have relationship issues, or just want to grow emotionally and learn more about yourself, therapy can help. Your mental health matters!
Taking the first step toward getting help is the hardest part and I understand that. I am the founder & clinical director of Daybreak Counseling Center. We are an elite & dedicated group of therapists. We focus on providing a safe and nonjudgemental environment in order to help you speak freely, share your story, ask questions, and face any issues that arise. In beginning this inquiry, today you are one step closer to finding answers and solutions. Whether you are feeling down, anxious, confused, have relationship issues, or just want to grow emotionally and learn more about yourself, therapy can help. Your mental health matters!
(562) 366-1596 View (562) 366-1596
Photo of Paul Kramer - Remarkable Services, EdD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Remarkable Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Cerritos, CA 90703
At some point, we all struggle to adjust to change and fail to respond to life’s challenges with our best effort. It’s normal to feel stuck. We at Remarkable Services (RS) believe people inherently have what it takes within themselves to adjust, change and heal. No matter if it’s a challenging work situation, a parenting struggle, a tough year of high school or college, we all know what it feels like to struggle. Parents and their children are not immune, in that over the course of the first 18 years of life there are bound to be countless transitions, developments, change and of course, points of contention. RS is here to help!
At some point, we all struggle to adjust to change and fail to respond to life’s challenges with our best effort. It’s normal to feel stuck. We at Remarkable Services (RS) believe people inherently have what it takes within themselves to adjust, change and heal. No matter if it’s a challenging work situation, a parenting struggle, a tough year of high school or college, we all know what it feels like to struggle. Parents and their children are not immune, in that over the course of the first 18 years of life there are bound to be countless transitions, developments, change and of course, points of contention. RS is here to help!
(925) 436-1725 View (925) 436-1725
Photo of Guadalupe Avitia, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Guadalupe Avitia
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cerritos, CA 90703
If you're feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges, know that you don't have to face them alone. I offer a compassionate, safe space where your thoughts and feelings are welcomed and respected. Together, we can explore your experiences, unravel the complexities of your emotions, and work towards the goals that matter most to you. Whether you're navigating relationship issues, grappling with anxiety or depression, or seeking to heal from trauma, my approach is tailored to meet you where you are.
If you're feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges, know that you don't have to face them alone. I offer a compassionate, safe space where your thoughts and feelings are welcomed and respected. Together, we can explore your experiences, unravel the complexities of your emotions, and work towards the goals that matter most to you. Whether you're navigating relationship issues, grappling with anxiety or depression, or seeking to heal from trauma, my approach is tailored to meet you where you are.
(323) 968-6796 View (323) 968-6796
Photo of Dean Leav - Men's Issues - Dr. Dean, PsyD, QME, Author, Psychologist
Men's Issues - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Cerritos, CA 90703
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
(949) 755-8095 View (949) 755-8095
Photo of Dean Leav - Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean, PsyD, QME, Author, Psychologist
Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Cerritos, CA 90703
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
(424) 395-5759 View (424) 395-5759
Photo of Dean Leav - Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean, PsyD, QME, Author, Psychologist
Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Cerritos, CA 90703
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
(424) 397-2562 View (424) 397-2562
Photo of Michael S. Courter - Free At Heart Online Therapy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Free At Heart Online Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cerritos, CA 90703
Free At Heart Therapy is a group practice of highly skilled and trained therapists. Each therapist offers a compassionate and non judgmental environment for healing. Our team focuses on training to deliver high quality therapy for treating a variety of mental health issues in individuals, couples and families. We are currently taking Caloptima, Blue Cross Medi-Cal, California Health and Wellness, Healthnet and MHN. All of our services are available through tele-health in the comfort of your home and in our new office in Fullerton. Therefore we offer a personal and high-quality service that is affordable and accessible.
Free At Heart Therapy is a group practice of highly skilled and trained therapists. Each therapist offers a compassionate and non judgmental environment for healing. Our team focuses on training to deliver high quality therapy for treating a variety of mental health issues in individuals, couples and families. We are currently taking Caloptima, Blue Cross Medi-Cal, California Health and Wellness, Healthnet and MHN. All of our services are available through tele-health in the comfort of your home and in our new office in Fullerton. Therefore we offer a personal and high-quality service that is affordable and accessible.
(530) 460-6190 View (530) 460-6190
Photo of Naomi Duffy, LCSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Naomi Duffy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cerritos, CA 90703
Imagine a world where you like who you truly are at the core. A world where you no longer worry about the judgement of others. This is that door. I invite you to walk though it together. When you're tired of being tired and have tried other options that seem to come back to the same end, this is the beginning of something different. This is the chance to move through your fear of abandonment and rejection, and the chance to begin to lead your authentic life. My intention is to walk with you on the journey of knowing yourself. I strongly believe in open curiosity paired with synergy which is a bedrock to a trust-based relationship.
Imagine a world where you like who you truly are at the core. A world where you no longer worry about the judgement of others. This is that door. I invite you to walk though it together. When you're tired of being tired and have tried other options that seem to come back to the same end, this is the beginning of something different. This is the chance to move through your fear of abandonment and rejection, and the chance to begin to lead your authentic life. My intention is to walk with you on the journey of knowing yourself. I strongly believe in open curiosity paired with synergy which is a bedrock to a trust-based relationship.
(818) 533-6778 View (818) 533-6778

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of David Vest, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
David Vest
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Buena Park, CA 90620
What doesn't hurt you makes you stronger.....but don't show your emotions!" Hi, I am David Vest, LMFT103919, in California and I specialize in trauma-informed. I have been practicing since 2010 and also work with anxiety, depression, cognitive disorders, substance use, and couples. I am most successful with adults and have currently limited practice with those over 18. I focus on the strengths and perspectives that people bring with them. I believe most of us already have many answers to our own problems and treat each person as their own expert.
What doesn't hurt you makes you stronger.....but don't show your emotions!" Hi, I am David Vest, LMFT103919, in California and I specialize in trauma-informed. I have been practicing since 2010 and also work with anxiety, depression, cognitive disorders, substance use, and couples. I am most successful with adults and have currently limited practice with those over 18. I focus on the strengths and perspectives that people bring with them. I believe most of us already have many answers to our own problems and treat each person as their own expert.
(562) 553-3649 View (562) 553-3649
Photo of Angela La Luzerne, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angela La Luzerne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Buena Park, CA 90621
My name is Angela La Luzerne and I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in California (and other states). I’ve been in the behavioral health field for 20+ years, working with clients from ages 16 to over 90 in a variety of settings. I specialize in mood disorders (anxiety, depression, etc.), life transitions, chronic pain, trauma, PTSD, as well as substance use and the many related challenges (codependency, relationship issues, relapse, family conflict, etc.). Currently, I work with clients statewide via telehealth.
My name is Angela La Luzerne and I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in California (and other states). I’ve been in the behavioral health field for 20+ years, working with clients from ages 16 to over 90 in a variety of settings. I specialize in mood disorders (anxiety, depression, etc.), life transitions, chronic pain, trauma, PTSD, as well as substance use and the many related challenges (codependency, relationship issues, relapse, family conflict, etc.). Currently, I work with clients statewide via telehealth.
(323) 543-0736 View (323) 543-0736
Photo of Farinaz Khalilifard, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Farinaz Khalilifard
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Buena Park, CA 90621
My name is Farinaz Khalilifard. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with more than 20 years of experience as a clinician. I work with issues related to Addiction, Trauma, Family Issues, Stress, Grief, Loss, PTSD, Women's Issues, and Relationship Issues. I approach treatment through a humanistic approach which is client-centered. I specialize in motivational interviewing, CBT, and DBT. Through the therapeutic process, I guide patients into a path of self-discovery and empowerment to develop int a healthy and whole individual.
My name is Farinaz Khalilifard. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with more than 20 years of experience as a clinician. I work with issues related to Addiction, Trauma, Family Issues, Stress, Grief, Loss, PTSD, Women's Issues, and Relationship Issues. I approach treatment through a humanistic approach which is client-centered. I specialize in motivational interviewing, CBT, and DBT. Through the therapeutic process, I guide patients into a path of self-discovery and empowerment to develop int a healthy and whole individual.
(626) 702-3073 View (626) 702-3073
Photo of Levon Margolin, PhD, Psychologist
Levon Margolin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
La Mirada, CA 90638
Dr. Levon Margolin (California Psychologist License# PSY24890) is a licensed clinical psychologist, board certified in medical psychology. Dr. Margolin received his Ph.D. in clinical psychology and his master’s degree in general psychology from Walden University. Dr. Margolin also received a post-doctoral master’s degree in clinical psychopharmacology (MSCP) from the California School of Professional Psychology at Alliant University. Dr. Margolin is board certified in medical psychology by the American Board of Medical Psychology (ABMP). Additionally, Dr. Margolin is a qualified medical evaluator (QME) in the state of California.
Dr. Levon Margolin (California Psychologist License# PSY24890) is a licensed clinical psychologist, board certified in medical psychology. Dr. Margolin received his Ph.D. in clinical psychology and his master’s degree in general psychology from Walden University. Dr. Margolin also received a post-doctoral master’s degree in clinical psychopharmacology (MSCP) from the California School of Professional Psychology at Alliant University. Dr. Margolin is board certified in medical psychology by the American Board of Medical Psychology (ABMP). Additionally, Dr. Margolin is a qualified medical evaluator (QME) in the state of California.
(888) 834-9930 View (888) 834-9930
Photo of Sylvia Petitt, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sylvia Petitt
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Artesia, CA 90703
My name is Sylvia Petitt, LMFT. I am licensed in California with 19 years of professional work experience. I have worked in the public mental health sector and focused on the treatment of the chronically mentally ill and treatment of chemical dependency. I have been trained in various evidence-based practices, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focus therapy, Matrix, dialectal behavioral therapy, Seeking Safety, and EMDR.
My name is Sylvia Petitt, LMFT. I am licensed in California with 19 years of professional work experience. I have worked in the public mental health sector and focused on the treatment of the chronically mentally ill and treatment of chemical dependency. I have been trained in various evidence-based practices, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focus therapy, Matrix, dialectal behavioral therapy, Seeking Safety, and EMDR.
(661) 402-3422 View (661) 402-3422
Drug Abuse 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.