Substance Use Therapists in Irvine, CA

Photo of Nicole S Johnson, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nicole S Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92604
I provide treatment for mood disorders, anxiety disorders, women's issues, substance use disorders, trauma, domestic violence and grief.
Has life become overwhelming, stressful, or unmanageable? Not sure how to help yourself, kids, or relationship, and life has become out of control? You don't need to cope with stress and unhappiness alone. With good treatment individuals will feel and function better. I offer excellent training, insight, warmth and honesty. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist certified with the Board of Behavioral Sciences. I received my BA degree from the University of Arizona in communications and earned my MA degree in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University with an Emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy.
I provide treatment for mood disorders, anxiety disorders, women's issues, substance use disorders, trauma, domestic violence and grief.
Has life become overwhelming, stressful, or unmanageable? Not sure how to help yourself, kids, or relationship, and life has become out of control? You don't need to cope with stress and unhappiness alone. With good treatment individuals will feel and function better. I offer excellent training, insight, warmth and honesty. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist certified with the Board of Behavioral Sciences. I received my BA degree from the University of Arizona in communications and earned my MA degree in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University with an Emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy.
(949) 647-4976 View (949) 647-4976
Photo of David Serbin, MA, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
David Serbin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92612  (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.
(949) 919-7231 View (949) 919-7231
Photo of Jade Sustacek, LPCC, Counselor
Jade Sustacek
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92620  (Online Only)
I've worked in diverse settings helping individuals with different struggles such as, anxiety, gender identity and sexuality, substance use and eating disorders.
If you are an adult struggling with anxiety and stress, ADHD, self-esteem, sexuality, eating disorders or body image- Lets connect! I believe that having a safe space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings and identity is the foundation to experiencing freedom within yourself. Working together, I want to help you feel empowered and learn practical skills that create positive, long-lasting change in your life rather than just temporary relief.
I've worked in diverse settings helping individuals with different struggles such as, anxiety, gender identity and sexuality, substance use and eating disorders.
If you are an adult struggling with anxiety and stress, ADHD, self-esteem, sexuality, eating disorders or body image- Lets connect! I believe that having a safe space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings and identity is the foundation to experiencing freedom within yourself. Working together, I want to help you feel empowered and learn practical skills that create positive, long-lasting change in your life rather than just temporary relief.
(657) 837-1880 View (657) 837-1880
Photo of Lynda Koliba, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lynda Koliba
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92606
I have over 5 years of experience in substance use disorder in a residential detox facility.
Often, it’s too much to think, be in your head and deal with toxic relationships. Then, in thinking or feeling, or a pattern of behavior or choices that are ultimately harmful. This can lead to a feeling of heaviness and oppression about the future, allow yourself the freedom to imagine a future filled with possibilities and opportunities. I will help you unpack the history of the problematic behavior and help you see how you actually feel about it. I intend to help you better understand the motivation underneath the patterns of thinking and behaviors that make you feel trapped and overwhelmed.
I have over 5 years of experience in substance use disorder in a residential detox facility.
Often, it’s too much to think, be in your head and deal with toxic relationships. Then, in thinking or feeling, or a pattern of behavior or choices that are ultimately harmful. This can lead to a feeling of heaviness and oppression about the future, allow yourself the freedom to imagine a future filled with possibilities and opportunities. I will help you unpack the history of the problematic behavior and help you see how you actually feel about it. I intend to help you better understand the motivation underneath the patterns of thinking and behaviors that make you feel trapped and overwhelmed.
(714) 756-0826 View (714) 756-0826
Photo of Kari Ann Tuggle-Nord, LCSW, RD, CHES, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kari Ann Tuggle-Nord
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RD, CHES
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92614  (Online Only)
Hi, I’m Kari, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and Registered Dietitian. I support individuals experiencing anxiety and depression, struggling with an eating disorder, caught in addiction, or navigating a life transition. I have specialized training in the treatment of eating disorders and common co-occurring disorders such as OCD, ADHD, Borderline Personality Disorder, and substance use. I also support people who want to improve their lives by setting healthier boundaries, building confidence, and living more aligned to their values.
Hi, I’m Kari, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and Registered Dietitian. I support individuals experiencing anxiety and depression, struggling with an eating disorder, caught in addiction, or navigating a life transition. I have specialized training in the treatment of eating disorders and common co-occurring disorders such as OCD, ADHD, Borderline Personality Disorder, and substance use. I also support people who want to improve their lives by setting healthier boundaries, building confidence, and living more aligned to their values.
(657) 214-3144 View (657) 214-3144
Photo of Sara Hicks, MS, LMFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sara Hicks
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92618
Hi, I'm Sara. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and EMDR trained clinician who is committed to working collaboratively with clients to achieve their goals. I utilize a calm and compassionate approach when working with clients as I strive to provide a safe environment to facilitate opportunities for clients to grow and enhance their strengths. I had the honor of working at a residential treatment center where I supported teens, adults, and families navigate complex trauma, past abuse, and persistent mental health struggles like depression and anxiety, disordered eating, & substance use.
Hi, I'm Sara. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and EMDR trained clinician who is committed to working collaboratively with clients to achieve their goals. I utilize a calm and compassionate approach when working with clients as I strive to provide a safe environment to facilitate opportunities for clients to grow and enhance their strengths. I had the honor of working at a residential treatment center where I supported teens, adults, and families navigate complex trauma, past abuse, and persistent mental health struggles like depression and anxiety, disordered eating, & substance use.
(949) 868-6351 View (949) 868-6351
Photo of Kelly Albrecht, ASW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kelly Albrecht
Pre-Licensed Professional, ASW
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92604
With expertise in substance use disorder, ADHD, bipolar and personality disorders, my holistic approach to therapy prioritizes safety and healing, with trauma-informed care.
Are you struggling to process depression, anxiety, relationship/family issues, and trauma? These emotional ruptures can cause major disruptions in our lives. The work to process these types of life events is multifaceted, and I can help you identify your feelings and potential relational patterns, build tolerance and acceptance around challenging ones, and set meaningful goals. In order to do so, I utilize various therapeutic approaches consisting of ACT, CBT, and Problem Solving Therapy and somatic interventions.
With expertise in substance use disorder, ADHD, bipolar and personality disorders, my holistic approach to therapy prioritizes safety and healing, with trauma-informed care.
Are you struggling to process depression, anxiety, relationship/family issues, and trauma? These emotional ruptures can cause major disruptions in our lives. The work to process these types of life events is multifaceted, and I can help you identify your feelings and potential relational patterns, build tolerance and acceptance around challenging ones, and set meaningful goals. In order to do so, I utilize various therapeutic approaches consisting of ACT, CBT, and Problem Solving Therapy and somatic interventions.
(949) 776-8547 View (949) 776-8547
Photo of Golshid 'Goldie' Fadakar, MS, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Golshid 'Goldie' Fadakar
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92612
I've had extensive experience working with eating disorders, trauma, substance use, depression, and anxiety.
Welcome! My passion lies in working with individuals desiring to achieve more independence for themselves, working through uncomfortable feelings, establishing better boundaries, improving relationships, and increasing self-esteem and self-worth. Ask yourself the following, what areas in your life are you avoiding? Where are you feeling stuck? It takes courage to seek help and desire to work through your issues. Through therapy, we can address how your struggles are impacting you. We will work on ways to help you feel safe, empowered, and to have the skills to manage stressors.
I've had extensive experience working with eating disorders, trauma, substance use, depression, and anxiety.
Welcome! My passion lies in working with individuals desiring to achieve more independence for themselves, working through uncomfortable feelings, establishing better boundaries, improving relationships, and increasing self-esteem and self-worth. Ask yourself the following, what areas in your life are you avoiding? Where are you feeling stuck? It takes courage to seek help and desire to work through your issues. Through therapy, we can address how your struggles are impacting you. We will work on ways to help you feel safe, empowered, and to have the skills to manage stressors.
(949) 229-1043 View (949) 229-1043
Photo of Alyssa Hufana, PhD, Psychologist
Alyssa Hufana
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92618
I have specialized training working with depression, anxiety, substance use, relationship issues, identity issues, and those with health conditions.
Life is never meant to be easy, but should it be this difficult? My therapeutic approach can be described as culturally responsive, intentional, and collaborative. I believe a strong therapeutic relationship is critical to the journey of healing and personal growth. I guide my clients to recognize how one’s thoughts and emotions impact behavior, and how to create the changes they want in their lives. In my practice, I work to build an affirming space that allows clients to show up authentically, and frequently use humor and metaphors to illustrate important topics in the therapeutic process.
I have specialized training working with depression, anxiety, substance use, relationship issues, identity issues, and those with health conditions.
Life is never meant to be easy, but should it be this difficult? My therapeutic approach can be described as culturally responsive, intentional, and collaborative. I believe a strong therapeutic relationship is critical to the journey of healing and personal growth. I guide my clients to recognize how one’s thoughts and emotions impact behavior, and how to create the changes they want in their lives. In my practice, I work to build an affirming space that allows clients to show up authentically, and frequently use humor and metaphors to illustrate important topics in the therapeutic process.
(949) 461-2088 View (949) 461-2088
Photo of Gabriela Fountain, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Gabriela Fountain
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92612
Waitlist for new clients
Maternity Leave from 07/31/24 - 12/1/24. Hello! My name is Gabriela Fountain and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I work with Adults, Young adults and Families struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship conflicts, substance use and/or past trauma(s). My hope is that this can be a safe space for you to process your story. Have you been struggling with anxiety, depression, intrusive thoughts or memories, childhood trauma, people pleasing or codependency? I hope it feels that this might be the right time to process, heal and find relief within your mind and body. If it does, I would love to connect.
Maternity Leave from 07/31/24 - 12/1/24. Hello! My name is Gabriela Fountain and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I work with Adults, Young adults and Families struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship conflicts, substance use and/or past trauma(s). My hope is that this can be a safe space for you to process your story. Have you been struggling with anxiety, depression, intrusive thoughts or memories, childhood trauma, people pleasing or codependency? I hope it feels that this might be the right time to process, heal and find relief within your mind and body. If it does, I would love to connect.
(949) 401-9958 View (949) 401-9958
Photo of Donald Campbell, PsyD, Psychologist
Donald Campbell
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92612
I specialize in family discord, couple therapy, identity challenges personal and professional, depression, anxiety, motivation, and substance use disorders.
As a psychologist, I aim to aid my clients in achieving their goals. I can help clients identify factors that may be challenging their successes in life and causing distress. Often clients cannot really identify the origins of the problem. This is where I work with the client to understand their past, build a healthy personal narrative of themselves and encourage positive thinking and behaviors to support a healthy mindset in the future.
I specialize in family discord, couple therapy, identity challenges personal and professional, depression, anxiety, motivation, and substance use disorders.
As a psychologist, I aim to aid my clients in achieving their goals. I can help clients identify factors that may be challenging their successes in life and causing distress. Often clients cannot really identify the origins of the problem. This is where I work with the client to understand their past, build a healthy personal narrative of themselves and encourage positive thinking and behaviors to support a healthy mindset in the future.
(657) 366-5015 View (657) 366-5015
Photo of Anushri Parikh, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Anushri Parikh
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92612  (Online Only)
Additionally, I support individuals in substance use recovery as they explore their identity in sobriety and adjust to life's demands, including work and relationships.
Hi, my name is Anushri, pronounced as “ah-noo-shree”. I firmly believe in Irvin Yalom's assertion that "It's the relationship that heals." Through active and reflective listening, I strive to empathize with my clients and foster a robust therapeutic connection. My psychotherapy approach is client-centered and culturally attuned, aiming to customize treatment to each client's distinct needs and values. This personalized approach promotes healing and facilitates the essential process of change.
Additionally, I support individuals in substance use recovery as they explore their identity in sobriety and adjust to life's demands, including work and relationships.
Hi, my name is Anushri, pronounced as “ah-noo-shree”. I firmly believe in Irvin Yalom's assertion that "It's the relationship that heals." Through active and reflective listening, I strive to empathize with my clients and foster a robust therapeutic connection. My psychotherapy approach is client-centered and culturally attuned, aiming to customize treatment to each client's distinct needs and values. This personalized approach promotes healing and facilitates the essential process of change.
(657) 315-1161 View (657) 315-1161
Photo of Nick Leggio, PsyD, Psychologist
Nick Leggio
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92618
I have experience treating anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, mood disorders, as well as difficulties related to grief and loss.
I am so glad you have taken the courageous next step on your journey of healing. I know how overwhelming it can be to find a provider you can trust. I believe one of the bravest and most rewarding things you can do is to begin to understand your own story. Under my care, I aim to provide symptom relief, a deeper and more accurate understanding of your self and others, and a warm and nonjudgemental space to be seen and heard.
I have experience treating anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, mood disorders, as well as difficulties related to grief and loss.
I am so glad you have taken the courageous next step on your journey of healing. I know how overwhelming it can be to find a provider you can trust. I believe one of the bravest and most rewarding things you can do is to begin to understand your own story. Under my care, I aim to provide symptom relief, a deeper and more accurate understanding of your self and others, and a warm and nonjudgemental space to be seen and heard.
(949) 334-2399 View (949) 334-2399
Photo of Dr. Stefanie Tweedly, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Stefanie Tweedly
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92606
While I specialize in treatment of trauma/PTSD, substance use disorders, active duty and retired military, and first responders, I am comfortable treating a wide range of presenting problems experienced by adolescents and adults from diverse backgrounds, ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations, and religions. Base on your needs, I integrate a variety of approaches to therapy, including Emotion-Focused Therapy due to its focus emotional healing and its warm, supportive stance. In addition to more traditional approaches to therapy, I integrate holistic practices, such as yoga and meditation.
While I specialize in treatment of trauma/PTSD, substance use disorders, active duty and retired military, and first responders, I am comfortable treating a wide range of presenting problems experienced by adolescents and adults from diverse backgrounds, ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations, and religions. Base on your needs, I integrate a variety of approaches to therapy, including Emotion-Focused Therapy due to its focus emotional healing and its warm, supportive stance. In addition to more traditional approaches to therapy, I integrate holistic practices, such as yoga and meditation.
(949) 577-8296 View (949) 577-8296
Photo of Tonya Torres - Tonya Torres | Mind Garden Counseling Collective, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tonya Torres | Mind Garden Counseling Collective
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92602  (Online Only)
I believe that our behavior and struggles are a result of what has happened to us. Unpacking what has happened to you is so important in better understanding what is going on with you now. Therapy can prompt growth and healing for those facing challenges like anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, substance use, poor self-esteem, grief & transitions. I will empower you to explore your personal stories to connect the past, present, and future to find meaning and hope while reforming faulty thinking patterns & beliefs. I have a passion for treating those that have experienced trauma. I have learned to heal my own experience
I believe that our behavior and struggles are a result of what has happened to us. Unpacking what has happened to you is so important in better understanding what is going on with you now. Therapy can prompt growth and healing for those facing challenges like anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, substance use, poor self-esteem, grief & transitions. I will empower you to explore your personal stories to connect the past, present, and future to find meaning and hope while reforming faulty thinking patterns & beliefs. I have a passion for treating those that have experienced trauma. I have learned to heal my own experience
(949) 216-5593 View (949) 216-5593
Photo of Dr. Annahita Mahdavi West, PhD , AMFT, CATC-V, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Dr. Annahita Mahdavi West
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, PhD , AMFT, CATC-V
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92604  (Online Only)
My specialties include anxiety, depression, grief, relationship conflicts, couples, families, teenagers, computer game habits, college students' issues, substance use, adjustment and integration, immigration and acculturation trauma, incarceration, and racial trauma, I use secure technology to offer virtual therapy to anyone in California.
I work in a nonprofit agency that offers low-fee/sliding scale therapy. I approach this field of psychotherapy as a sacred space. A space of human connectivity. A space safe and free of judgments and biases. I attempt to provide the utmost empathy and a safe space for my clients to be able to address the issues they need help with. I believe in being solution-focused while addressing the underlying causes of repetitive patterns in order to stop the self-destructive cycles that produce unfavorable results. My goal is to help you to change your behavior to promote positive outcomes towards your mental and emotional wellbeing.
My specialties include anxiety, depression, grief, relationship conflicts, couples, families, teenagers, computer game habits, college students' issues, substance use, adjustment and integration, immigration and acculturation trauma, incarceration, and racial trauma, I use secure technology to offer virtual therapy to anyone in California.
I work in a nonprofit agency that offers low-fee/sliding scale therapy. I approach this field of psychotherapy as a sacred space. A space of human connectivity. A space safe and free of judgments and biases. I attempt to provide the utmost empathy and a safe space for my clients to be able to address the issues they need help with. I believe in being solution-focused while addressing the underlying causes of repetitive patterns in order to stop the self-destructive cycles that produce unfavorable results. My goal is to help you to change your behavior to promote positive outcomes towards your mental and emotional wellbeing.
(949) 625-0572 View (949) 625-0572
Photo of Meghan Hayhoe, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Meghan Hayhoe
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92603  (Online Only)
My primary focuses are on anxiety and trauma, however I also work closely with substance use, self-esteem, relationship issues, anger, and more.
Seeking therapy can sometimes feel daunting or uncertain, so if you're looking then you've already started the toughest step. No matter what the issue is that you're experiencing - intrusive thoughts, emotion-driven reactions, low moods you can't shake - you have the tools you need to get to where you want to go, and I'm here to help you access and strengthen them. You deserve to be in the driver's seat of your own life, not emotionally chained down by something that is (or feels like it is) outside of your control. I'm here to help you access that control and go from surviving to thriving.
My primary focuses are on anxiety and trauma, however I also work closely with substance use, self-esteem, relationship issues, anger, and more.
Seeking therapy can sometimes feel daunting or uncertain, so if you're looking then you've already started the toughest step. No matter what the issue is that you're experiencing - intrusive thoughts, emotion-driven reactions, low moods you can't shake - you have the tools you need to get to where you want to go, and I'm here to help you access and strengthen them. You deserve to be in the driver's seat of your own life, not emotionally chained down by something that is (or feels like it is) outside of your control. I'm here to help you access that control and go from surviving to thriving.
(714) 707-6818 View (714) 707-6818
Photo of Briant Stringham, CATC-II, CCS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Briant Stringham
Pre-Licensed Professional, CATC-II, CCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92618
My own past struggles with mental health and substance use have profoundly shaped my approach to therapy.
While I don't have an "ideal client," as I find that each experience is unique, I would say some traits generally promote optimum growth in the counseling process. Clients who make the decision not just to merely "deal" with whatever issues they may experience, but also to grow and expand as a person. Clients who know there is more to them than is currently presenting, who feel that with the right combination of factors, they can self-actualize into the person they have always wanted to be. These can be some key ingredients towards an amazing and happy life.
My own past struggles with mental health and substance use have profoundly shaped my approach to therapy.
While I don't have an "ideal client," as I find that each experience is unique, I would say some traits generally promote optimum growth in the counseling process. Clients who make the decision not just to merely "deal" with whatever issues they may experience, but also to grow and expand as a person. Clients who know there is more to them than is currently presenting, who feel that with the right combination of factors, they can self-actualize into the person they have always wanted to be. These can be some key ingredients towards an amazing and happy life.
(949) 978-0159 View (949) 978-0159
Photo of Amee Gray - RecoverWell
RecoverWell
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92602  (Online Only)
RecoverWell is a free to use service that matches the treatment needs of patients to the admitting criteria of addiction and mental health treatment facilities with the support of a social worker. RecoverWell works with patients, licensed clinical social workers and mental health therapists to help quickly and accurately identify no-cost or low-cost treatment resources for patients with substance use, mental health and eating disorders. We get patients into high quality treatment programs fast.
RecoverWell is a free to use service that matches the treatment needs of patients to the admitting criteria of addiction and mental health treatment facilities with the support of a social worker. RecoverWell works with patients, licensed clinical social workers and mental health therapists to help quickly and accurately identify no-cost or low-cost treatment resources for patients with substance use, mental health and eating disorders. We get patients into high quality treatment programs fast.
(747) 232-5304 View (747) 232-5304
Photo of Grant Clarke, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Grant Clarke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92602
I am currently using telehealth technology exclusively. I am currently seeing clients at Sunny Hills Behavioral Health & TMS. I have worked in hospitals, outpatient programs, as well as private practice settings. I have helped many individuals over the past 17 years with mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders. I have worked with individuals, couples, and families throughout my career. My goal with all of my clients is to help them be mentally healthy and the best version of themselves they can be.
I am currently using telehealth technology exclusively. I am currently seeing clients at Sunny Hills Behavioral Health & TMS. I have worked in hospitals, outpatient programs, as well as private practice settings. I have helped many individuals over the past 17 years with mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders. I have worked with individuals, couples, and families throughout my career. My goal with all of my clients is to help them be mentally healthy and the best version of themselves they can be.
(949) 528-4530 View (949) 528-4530
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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.