Substance Use Therapists in La Jolla, CA
![Photo of Avery Morrison, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e9def70b-c601-418a-bcc5-d1aad3a015ee/1/320x400.jpeg)
My therapeutic approach has been enriched by previous clinical experiences in treatment facilities, such as, substance abuse residential facilities, vocational training schools, private practices, and completing my pre-doctoral internship at Johns Hopkins. I work with individuals who are experiencing mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, substance use concerns, relationship distress, PTSD, and perfectionism. I also work with clients who are navigating transitions in their lives, such as the start of a new job, going through a divorce/breakup or getting married, and transitioning out of college/the military.
My therapeutic approach has been enriched by previous clinical experiences in treatment facilities, such as, substance abuse residential facilities, vocational training schools, private practices, and completing my pre-doctoral internship at Johns Hopkins. I work with individuals who are experiencing mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, substance use concerns, relationship distress, PTSD, and perfectionism. I also work with clients who are navigating transitions in their lives, such as the start of a new job, going through a divorce/breakup or getting married, and transitioning out of college/the military.
![Photo of Kamran Zafar, CADAC, PhD, Drug & Alcohol Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4177764d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Accommodating professionally established individuals who require total confidentiality and can not go to residential treatment centers for alcohol or substance use is my specialty.
My name is Dr. Kamran Zafar and I am the founder and CEO of La Jolla Healing Center. I have been in recovery for more than 30 years and know how lonely it can get. Addiction can hit a person when they least expect it: when they're trying to manage an increase in their workload, fulfill obligations with family, or for no reason whatsoever. It often begins innocently — sometimes to relieve the stress of everyday life, or even just to experience the thrill of something new. Before the person knows it, they’re using alcohol or substances to cope with the negative feelings and stress in their daily lives.
Accommodating professionally established individuals who require total confidentiality and can not go to residential treatment centers for alcohol or substance use is my specialty.
My name is Dr. Kamran Zafar and I am the founder and CEO of La Jolla Healing Center. I have been in recovery for more than 30 years and know how lonely it can get. Addiction can hit a person when they least expect it: when they're trying to manage an increase in their workload, fulfill obligations with family, or for no reason whatsoever. It often begins innocently — sometimes to relieve the stress of everyday life, or even just to experience the thrill of something new. Before the person knows it, they’re using alcohol or substances to cope with the negative feelings and stress in their daily lives.
![Photo of Mairel Galeana, LPCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/33bab7fb-adf7-4441-b8cb-c432c52341b5/3/320x400.jpeg)
I have a passion for helping clients strengthen their relationships with themselves as well as the relationships of those around them. I emphasized a client-centered approach and utilized psychoeducation, and skill-building to help clients practice skills that support their goals. Before private practice, I worked with adults, adolescents, families, and couples with dual diagnoses (e.g. substance use and mental health disorders) while in recovery. Through compassion, motivation, and collaboration, we’ll celebrate the wins and reflect on the progress and the challenges experienced.
I have a passion for helping clients strengthen their relationships with themselves as well as the relationships of those around them. I emphasized a client-centered approach and utilized psychoeducation, and skill-building to help clients practice skills that support their goals. Before private practice, I worked with adults, adolescents, families, and couples with dual diagnoses (e.g. substance use and mental health disorders) while in recovery. Through compassion, motivation, and collaboration, we’ll celebrate the wins and reflect on the progress and the challenges experienced.
![Photo of Kellie Delli Colli, PhD, BCN, RYT, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f10c2e8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Are you facing the overwhelming weight of life's challenges, experiencing obsessive thoughts, intrusive memories, feeling disconnected from others, fatigue, feeling on edge, sadness, fear, worry, or constant distraction? If these difficulties impact your work, relationships, and overall well-being, I am here to support you through a powerful process of healing and growth. I specialize in treating people who experience trauma, depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders. Through your engagement in treatment, you will free yourself from suffering, overcome obstacles, and foster your resilience.
Are you facing the overwhelming weight of life's challenges, experiencing obsessive thoughts, intrusive memories, feeling disconnected from others, fatigue, feeling on edge, sadness, fear, worry, or constant distraction? If these difficulties impact your work, relationships, and overall well-being, I am here to support you through a powerful process of healing and growth. I specialize in treating people who experience trauma, depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders. Through your engagement in treatment, you will free yourself from suffering, overcome obstacles, and foster your resilience.
![Photo of Jessica Flowers-Guerrero, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/844a2c75-8a58-4a62-a9f1-909dca1759e3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Flowers-Guerrero
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037 (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.
![Photo of Julie K Peters, MA, APCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/97e1701f-b34e-4441-ac8f-9d51f6abece5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Julie K Peters
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, APCC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037 (Online Only)
I have created drama therapy groups and have specialized in long term substance use recovery by working extensively with court treatment programs and incarcerated individuals.
Welcome, I bring a strong skill base working in LGBTQIA+, addiction and PTSD communitites. I love working with Couples and families, and I'm passionate about helping students navigate studying and self-care. I'm here to help you utilize your innate creativity, and I'm excited to aid you as you enact new patterns in your relationship with yourself and others. You will experience me as an affirming clinician who values and acknowledges your marginalized identity and the intersection of the many roles you embody. You can expect kindness from me and a treatment space that expands to allow your unique perspective to shine.
I have created drama therapy groups and have specialized in long term substance use recovery by working extensively with court treatment programs and incarcerated individuals.
Welcome, I bring a strong skill base working in LGBTQIA+, addiction and PTSD communitites. I love working with Couples and families, and I'm passionate about helping students navigate studying and self-care. I'm here to help you utilize your innate creativity, and I'm excited to aid you as you enact new patterns in your relationship with yourself and others. You will experience me as an affirming clinician who values and acknowledges your marginalized identity and the intersection of the many roles you embody. You can expect kindness from me and a treatment space that expands to allow your unique perspective to shine.
![Photo of Melody Stiles, MSW, LCSW, MAC, LCAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c09228e3-546a-4c67-9097-040f96bfa6c1/2/320x400.png)
Melody Stiles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, MAC, LCAC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037 (Online Only)
I am now accepting clients in California as well as Indiana! I work in a Virtual ONLY practice and I specialize in EMDR for those with substance use disorders, trauma, or a combination of the two. If you are someone who is trying to cope with substance use, trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, chronic pain/illness, or leaving a high control group. I would be glad to try to help you find another, better way forward. And what that "better way" looks like is up to you. I see therapy as being a very personal and intimate experience for each person tailor my approach to suit each person I see in treatment.
I am now accepting clients in California as well as Indiana! I work in a Virtual ONLY practice and I specialize in EMDR for those with substance use disorders, trauma, or a combination of the two. If you are someone who is trying to cope with substance use, trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, chronic pain/illness, or leaving a high control group. I would be glad to try to help you find another, better way forward. And what that "better way" looks like is up to you. I see therapy as being a very personal and intimate experience for each person tailor my approach to suit each person I see in treatment.
![Photo of Stephanie Wallace, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3046528d-b8b2-4c45-95d8-4dbc74025bfa/3/320x400.jpeg)
Stephanie Wallace
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037 (Online Only)
I have experience working with codependency, substance use, mood and anxiety disorders, adult children of narcissistic parents and chemically dependent parents, and other forms of relationship trauma.
Unaddressed childhood trauma is more common than people might think. It can influence our moods, ability to make decisions, work-life, relationships, and self-esteem. Do you have history of engaging in relationships with people who are emotionally unavailable or controlling? Are you critical of yourself or others? Do you use substances to cope? Do you struggle with persistent feelings of anxiety, depression, and chronic loneliness? Do you feel stuck, confused, sad, overwhelmed, or unable to cope with life’s challenges? These can be signs of unaddressed trauma.
I have experience working with codependency, substance use, mood and anxiety disorders, adult children of narcissistic parents and chemically dependent parents, and other forms of relationship trauma.
Unaddressed childhood trauma is more common than people might think. It can influence our moods, ability to make decisions, work-life, relationships, and self-esteem. Do you have history of engaging in relationships with people who are emotionally unavailable or controlling? Are you critical of yourself or others? Do you use substances to cope? Do you struggle with persistent feelings of anxiety, depression, and chronic loneliness? Do you feel stuck, confused, sad, overwhelmed, or unable to cope with life’s challenges? These can be signs of unaddressed trauma.
![Photo of Alice Thomas, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/babda248-feae-40a1-8598-fe7764da81fa/1/320x400.jpeg)
With a specialty in Art therapy and Substance Use, I am able to foster to all ages and populations.
I don't believe there is an ideal client. I believe everyone is different and needs someone to realize that their experiences are unique and important. A client needs someone who is not going place a label them or follow only the lessions we learned in graduate school. Someone who is going to listen and help guide them to the best solution for them. As your Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), my commitment is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space for you to explore your emotions and experiences. Your well-being is my top priority, and I am honored to support you every step of the way.
With a specialty in Art therapy and Substance Use, I am able to foster to all ages and populations.
I don't believe there is an ideal client. I believe everyone is different and needs someone to realize that their experiences are unique and important. A client needs someone who is not going place a label them or follow only the lessions we learned in graduate school. Someone who is going to listen and help guide them to the best solution for them. As your Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), my commitment is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space for you to explore your emotions and experiences. Your well-being is my top priority, and I am honored to support you every step of the way.
![Photo of Dr. Maxwell Maris, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f13fd222-2321-4b6b-9a52-23710884684b/1/320x400.jpeg)
I also specialize in working with athletes, men and masculinities, and individuals who struggle with substance use.
I have immediate openings and will return calls within 24 hours. I utilize well-researched evidence-based practices including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and motivational enhancement for in substance-related work. The focus of our work together is to help you learn the tools to better manage your concerns for the long haul. Additionally, we will build skills in effective communication, stress management, motivation, and psychological flexibility. My clients are individuals and couples who may suffer from depression, anxiety, or who want to figure out how to live a fuller life.
I also specialize in working with athletes, men and masculinities, and individuals who struggle with substance use.
I have immediate openings and will return calls within 24 hours. I utilize well-researched evidence-based practices including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and motivational enhancement for in substance-related work. The focus of our work together is to help you learn the tools to better manage your concerns for the long haul. Additionally, we will build skills in effective communication, stress management, motivation, and psychological flexibility. My clients are individuals and couples who may suffer from depression, anxiety, or who want to figure out how to live a fuller life.
![Photo of Michelle Nelson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54d7592a-cb32-41bf-8354-c4aa9d3187da/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle Nelson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037 (Online Only)
Hi! My name is Michelle Nelson, I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based out of California. I obtained both my bachelors and masters degrees from San Jose State University and am a Bay Area native. I have over 10 years of behavioral health experience, including work with children, families and adults facing various mental health and substance use challenges.
Hi! My name is Michelle Nelson, I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based out of California. I obtained both my bachelors and masters degrees from San Jose State University and am a Bay Area native. I have over 10 years of behavioral health experience, including work with children, families and adults facing various mental health and substance use challenges.
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Julianne Lucia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037 (Online Only)
Julianne has had the privilege and honor to support and treat diverse populations of all ages who experience mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, substance use disorders, gender dysphoria, neurodevelopmental disorders, personality disorders, as well as issues related to grief and loss, chronic illnesses/pain/sleep disorders, life transitions, relationship & social issues, and sex & intimacy. Julianne's main mission is to provide more safe therapeutic spaces focused for women and the LGBTQ+ community to explore their internal worlds.
Julianne has had the privilege and honor to support and treat diverse populations of all ages who experience mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, substance use disorders, gender dysphoria, neurodevelopmental disorders, personality disorders, as well as issues related to grief and loss, chronic illnesses/pain/sleep disorders, life transitions, relationship & social issues, and sex & intimacy. Julianne's main mission is to provide more safe therapeutic spaces focused for women and the LGBTQ+ community to explore their internal worlds.
![Photo of Dr. Araceli López-Arenas, PhD, MPH, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e6e2f129-6968-4d0a-bb3a-52a33ab90faf/4/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Araceli López-Arenas
Psychologist, PhD, MPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in addressing several issues including life transitions, career, anxiety, depression, substance use, & trauma/PTSD.
Hi and welcome! I want to congratulate you for taking the first step in recognizing that you may need support in the areas that you are struggling with. Step two is finding a provider that you feel comfortable working with. You are likely resilient AF, find that you are in need of support, and probably take care of others, but who takes care of you? This is a place to be taken care of when you care for the rest of the world. If you are motivated to make changes in your life, then let’s schedule a phone consult to determine if you would like to start working with me.
I specialize in addressing several issues including life transitions, career, anxiety, depression, substance use, & trauma/PTSD.
Hi and welcome! I want to congratulate you for taking the first step in recognizing that you may need support in the areas that you are struggling with. Step two is finding a provider that you feel comfortable working with. You are likely resilient AF, find that you are in need of support, and probably take care of others, but who takes care of you? This is a place to be taken care of when you care for the rest of the world. If you are motivated to make changes in your life, then let’s schedule a phone consult to determine if you would like to start working with me.
![Photo of Daniel Singley - The Center for Men's Excellence, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53962cd3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
We have immediate openings and will respond to you within one business day! The skilled psychologists at CME treat men, women, fathers, couples, families and children. CME clinicians provide structured, scientifically-supported psychological support designed to give clients the tools they need to better manage their issues and to thrive long-term. We specialize in issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, social and relationship concerns, sleep troubles, a history of trauma, substance use/addiction, fatherhood, life transitions, medical conditions, and sexual difficulties.
We have immediate openings and will respond to you within one business day! The skilled psychologists at CME treat men, women, fathers, couples, families and children. CME clinicians provide structured, scientifically-supported psychological support designed to give clients the tools they need to better manage their issues and to thrive long-term. We specialize in issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, social and relationship concerns, sleep troubles, a history of trauma, substance use/addiction, fatherhood, life transitions, medical conditions, and sexual difficulties.
![Photo of Sydnie Szol - Gray Whale Marriage and Family Therapy , MA, APCC, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/334eb094-cf82-4726-96ba-3d3fd3fbedb2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Gray Whale Marriage and Family Therapy
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, APCC, NCC
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037 (Online Only)
I have experience working with clients of diverse backgrounds and areas of struggle (substance use, grief, trauma, etc).
Welcome! My name is Sydnie, and I have a passion for helping persons of all backgrounds and walks of life. I specifically love working with clients during their perinatal, postnatal, and infertility periods. I am here to help you on your wellness journey by lending a non-judgemental, brave space where we can discuss your experiences and empower you within the therapy space and beyond. Therapy can be a harmonious experience where you are able to discuss the difficulties and triumphs of life freely with someone invested in your well-being and success.
I have experience working with clients of diverse backgrounds and areas of struggle (substance use, grief, trauma, etc).
Welcome! My name is Sydnie, and I have a passion for helping persons of all backgrounds and walks of life. I specifically love working with clients during their perinatal, postnatal, and infertility periods. I am here to help you on your wellness journey by lending a non-judgemental, brave space where we can discuss your experiences and empower you within the therapy space and beyond. Therapy can be a harmonious experience where you are able to discuss the difficulties and triumphs of life freely with someone invested in your well-being and success.
![Photo of Linda Spirra, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/11fb466e-554c-45e5-91cc-f51a425d6758/1/320x400.jpeg)
I provide nurturing, compassionate and supportive therapy to individuals, families, including military personnel. I work with adolescents and adults dealing with anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma, issues of self-worth, substance use, grief, loss, and self-harm. I recently ran an intensive outpatient program for people with acute mental health issues in a hospital based environment, and enjoy working with this population as well.
I provide nurturing, compassionate and supportive therapy to individuals, families, including military personnel. I work with adolescents and adults dealing with anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma, issues of self-worth, substance use, grief, loss, and self-harm. I recently ran an intensive outpatient program for people with acute mental health issues in a hospital based environment, and enjoy working with this population as well.
![Photo of Dr. Erin Cisneros, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b8de320-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
My varied clinical interests include anxiety, depression, perfectionism, educational issues, career concerns, autism, trauma, grief, relationships, substance use, and coping with medical and health issues.
Hello! My name is Dr. Erin Cisneros and I am a clinical psychologist with a mission of helping others create meaningful, fulfilling lives. I provide online counseling for teens and adults. I specialize in helping clients navigate the complicated life transitions associated with the teen years and the 20s and 30s. In counseling, I offer a supportive, collaborative environment where your challenges and concerns can be addressed. I look forward to working with you!
My varied clinical interests include anxiety, depression, perfectionism, educational issues, career concerns, autism, trauma, grief, relationships, substance use, and coping with medical and health issues.
Hello! My name is Dr. Erin Cisneros and I am a clinical psychologist with a mission of helping others create meaningful, fulfilling lives. I provide online counseling for teens and adults. I specialize in helping clients navigate the complicated life transitions associated with the teen years and the 20s and 30s. In counseling, I offer a supportive, collaborative environment where your challenges and concerns can be addressed. I look forward to working with you!
![Photo of Valerie Jennison, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eb5d50d0-6de4-4472-a6ec-a28fd9a5fd4b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Valerie Jennison
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037 (Online Only)
Do you feel stuck, hopeless, alone? Are you ready to move forward to a happier and more fulfilling life? I believe that with support, growth and change can happen naturally and gradually, and we can evolve into healthier and happier versions of ourselves. My areas of specialty focus on adults and adolescents struggling with substance use, mood disorders, personality disorders, grief and loss, and a variety of other challenges and life transitions. I use Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness techniques to aid in therapy.
Do you feel stuck, hopeless, alone? Are you ready to move forward to a happier and more fulfilling life? I believe that with support, growth and change can happen naturally and gradually, and we can evolve into healthier and happier versions of ourselves. My areas of specialty focus on adults and adolescents struggling with substance use, mood disorders, personality disorders, grief and loss, and a variety of other challenges and life transitions. I use Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness techniques to aid in therapy.
![Photo of Chris Chandler, MA, LPCC, LMHC, LPC, CSAT-S, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c792edc-b80c-45f2-aac8-b90159823381/2/320x400.jpeg)
Chris Chandler
Counselor, MA, LPCC, LMHC, LPC, CSAT-S
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037 (Online Only)
My passion is helping people build healthy and meaningful lives. I am a Certified Sexual Addiction Therapist trained by Dr. Patrick Carnes, the pioneer in the field of sex addiction. I have extensive experience working with individuals struggling with all forms of addictions and compulsive behaviors including: sex, pornography, drugs, alcohol, food, work, spending, codependent relationships, etc. I use Internal Family Systems, and Lifespan Integration to help people become free from underlying relational/attachment wounds.
My passion is helping people build healthy and meaningful lives. I am a Certified Sexual Addiction Therapist trained by Dr. Patrick Carnes, the pioneer in the field of sex addiction. I have extensive experience working with individuals struggling with all forms of addictions and compulsive behaviors including: sex, pornography, drugs, alcohol, food, work, spending, codependent relationships, etc. I use Internal Family Systems, and Lifespan Integration to help people become free from underlying relational/attachment wounds.
![Photo of Kate Mink, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2f814a5c-f6db-4a29-8d7c-9a93cd256104/2/320x400.jpeg)
Therapy with me is infused with humor, practicality, and compassion. I often use humor to help you build the skills you need to deal with all the challenges that come from doing life. I'm your biggest cheerleader, but also strive to give you helpful direction, and tangible skills tailored to your specific needs. I validate what you're feeling, but am also ready to call you out when helpful. I believe the ultimate goal of therapy is to help you build a life worth living, whatever that means to you!
Therapy with me is infused with humor, practicality, and compassion. I often use humor to help you build the skills you need to deal with all the challenges that come from doing life. I'm your biggest cheerleader, but also strive to give you helpful direction, and tangible skills tailored to your specific needs. I validate what you're feeling, but am also ready to call you out when helpful. I believe the ultimate goal of therapy is to help you build a life worth living, whatever that means to you!
See more therapy options for La Jolla
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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.