Substance Use Therapists in Santa Ana, CA
![Photo of Christina Hernandez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e4e916de-fe5b-4607-abaf-3f92b86de5f3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christina Hernandez is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience. Christina’s primary experience is in Child Welfare, working with low-income families, abuse and neglect, substance use, and various mental health illnesses. Christina’s experience also includes working with families and individuals impacted by homelessness, chronic and terminal illnesses, and navigating end-of-life decisions including palliative and hospice care.
Christina Hernandez is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience. Christina’s primary experience is in Child Welfare, working with low-income families, abuse and neglect, substance use, and various mental health illnesses. Christina’s experience also includes working with families and individuals impacted by homelessness, chronic and terminal illnesses, and navigating end-of-life decisions including palliative and hospice care.
![Photo of Dr. Annahita Mahdavi West, PhD , AMFT, CATC-V, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5edeef89-2123-4eea-9d77-6c1dc207c338/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Annahita Mahdavi West
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, PhD , AMFT, CATC-V
Verified Verified
Santa Ana, CA 92705 (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.
![Photo of Greg Becker, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aa7574ee-314d-4bcc-8845-3d655a9023d8/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am an experienced therapist and life coach with proven success in assisting individuals, couples, families, C-level executives, military and church leaders, athletic coaches, and teams transform their challenging life and work situations into positive outcomes. I work extensively and productively with clients diagnosed with co-occurring disorders (substance use and mental health diagnoses), depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, trauma, grief, PTSD and other issues. I work with couples and families. I employ a person-centered approach within a solutions-based, shorter term and flexible therapeutic process.
I am an experienced therapist and life coach with proven success in assisting individuals, couples, families, C-level executives, military and church leaders, athletic coaches, and teams transform their challenging life and work situations into positive outcomes. I work extensively and productively with clients diagnosed with co-occurring disorders (substance use and mental health diagnoses), depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, trauma, grief, PTSD and other issues. I work with couples and families. I employ a person-centered approach within a solutions-based, shorter term and flexible therapeutic process.
![Photo of Jennifer Gaebe, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/faf97042-cf4b-4004-9fe5-6c1db19dc37c/1/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Jennifer Gaebe, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Fresno, California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in addiction, stress/anxiety, and depression using a variety of modalities, including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Narrative Therapy, to help my clients make progress and start feeling better. I have found that my style and approach is a good fit for adults who may be dealing with the challenges of life transitions and social pressures. This often takes the form of anxiety, depression, stress, and substance use.
My name is Jennifer Gaebe, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Fresno, California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in addiction, stress/anxiety, and depression using a variety of modalities, including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Narrative Therapy, to help my clients make progress and start feeling better. I have found that my style and approach is a good fit for adults who may be dealing with the challenges of life transitions and social pressures. This often takes the form of anxiety, depression, stress, and substance use.
![Photo of Kelly Albrecht, ASW, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7d8c46ac-be0f-4108-b026-86dc5cc97f08/1/320x400.png)
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.
![Photo of Crystal Orabona, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c4c1c4c4-4889-480d-aa76-e0da69fdd2db/1/320x400.jpeg)
Crystal Orabona
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Ana, CA 92705 (Online Only)
I've worked with youth and adults with severe mental illness and substance use issues in an intensive outpatient setting, and have spent the last four years providing services to incarcerated men and women.
I am here to support men and women ages 14 and up who are seeking to overcome anxiety, depression, and maladaptive habits. If you are tired of constantly feeling like you're sitting in the passenger's seat of your own life, let's work together to understand the "why" behind unhealthy or maladaptive habits, create awareness and understanding of who you are, and build confidence to get you back into the driver's seat. I believe in a holistic approach to therapy - physical, mental and spiritual. I believe you are the expert of your life; so let me sit in the passenger seat and assist with directions while you take the wheel!
I've worked with youth and adults with severe mental illness and substance use issues in an intensive outpatient setting, and have spent the last four years providing services to incarcerated men and women.
I am here to support men and women ages 14 and up who are seeking to overcome anxiety, depression, and maladaptive habits. If you are tired of constantly feeling like you're sitting in the passenger's seat of your own life, let's work together to understand the "why" behind unhealthy or maladaptive habits, create awareness and understanding of who you are, and build confidence to get you back into the driver's seat. I believe in a holistic approach to therapy - physical, mental and spiritual. I believe you are the expert of your life; so let me sit in the passenger seat and assist with directions while you take the wheel!
![Photo of Natalie Franco, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6ed437e0-3b85-41d1-b112-105a7caa2fb3/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have worked with people who struggle with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and those who self-medicate with alcohol or other substances. I prefer working with individuals over the age of 18. I also have extensive experience working with people who struggle with depression, anxiety, mood swings, thought disturbances, substance use, and physical disabilities. Therapy is challenging, and yes, I will push my clients. But I am supportive and encouraging in my approach, and I will only push them because I believe in them, and that they have the capability of achieving their greatest good.
I have worked with people who struggle with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and those who self-medicate with alcohol or other substances. I prefer working with individuals over the age of 18. I also have extensive experience working with people who struggle with depression, anxiety, mood swings, thought disturbances, substance use, and physical disabilities. Therapy is challenging, and yes, I will push my clients. But I am supportive and encouraging in my approach, and I will only push them because I believe in them, and that they have the capability of achieving their greatest good.
![Photo of Lisa Swedlow, MA, LMFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1c6b747f-1dfc-4463-9726-ff202c92a1fc/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lisa Swedlow
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Santa Ana, CA 92702
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience treating anxiety disorders, depression, relationship issues, self-esteem issues/assertiveness, grief and loss, substance use, and trauma.
Are you feeling unhappy, stuck, or overwhelmed? Are you struggling with relationship issues, work stress, or challenges with family members? Are you or your loved ones struggling with addiction? Together, we can explore your current behaviors and beliefs and begin to unpack how your experiences from the past may be impeding your ability to live peacefully and purposefully in the present.
I have experience treating anxiety disorders, depression, relationship issues, self-esteem issues/assertiveness, grief and loss, substance use, and trauma.
Are you feeling unhappy, stuck, or overwhelmed? Are you struggling with relationship issues, work stress, or challenges with family members? Are you or your loved ones struggling with addiction? Together, we can explore your current behaviors and beliefs and begin to unpack how your experiences from the past may be impeding your ability to live peacefully and purposefully in the present.
![Photo of Anushri Parikh, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50bc119d-4570-4bef-9525-26c8567087dc/1/320x400.png)
Anushri Parikh
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Santa Ana, CA 92702 (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.
![Photo of Kelly Albrecht, ASW, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0ef4f533-0231-44ba-ac16-3acebc2e6273/1/320x400.png)
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.
![Photo of Bayley Dark, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4289aa6b-6d84-4f75-8d60-189ec4ca7bfb/2/320x400.png)
My name is Bayley Dark LCSW 110397, and I have been working with young children and adolescents for the last 4-6 years. My approach to therapy is to provide all my clients a safe space to verbalize their thoughts and feelings without any judgment and to address any concerns or topics that they feel are important to them. Most of my experience is with teenage boys who are within the juvenile justice system and within the child welfare system. The clients I typically see have severe trauma, history of substance use, and severe mental health diagnoses.
My name is Bayley Dark LCSW 110397, and I have been working with young children and adolescents for the last 4-6 years. My approach to therapy is to provide all my clients a safe space to verbalize their thoughts and feelings without any judgment and to address any concerns or topics that they feel are important to them. Most of my experience is with teenage boys who are within the juvenile justice system and within the child welfare system. The clients I typically see have severe trauma, history of substance use, and severe mental health diagnoses.
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![Photo of Pamela Poindexter, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/31d463ef-83da-431d-92b1-7ba6b236dd0e/1/320x400.png)
Due to our ever-increasing reliance on only ourselves, many individuals often carry burdens and stressors alone which result in anxiety, depression, substance use, relationship challenges, and an inability to skillfully navigate life transitions on their own.
Greetings! My name is Pam Poindexter and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker located in Long Beach, CA. I enjoy assisting adults to reclaim hope and meaning, reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, change addictive patterns, navigate relationship challenges and manage life transitions by combining multiple empowering strategies gathered from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Person-Centered Therapy.
Due to our ever-increasing reliance on only ourselves, many individuals often carry burdens and stressors alone which result in anxiety, depression, substance use, relationship challenges, and an inability to skillfully navigate life transitions on their own.
Greetings! My name is Pam Poindexter and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker located in Long Beach, CA. I enjoy assisting adults to reclaim hope and meaning, reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, change addictive patterns, navigate relationship challenges and manage life transitions by combining multiple empowering strategies gathered from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Person-Centered Therapy.
![Photo of Quintin Wise, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52258c05-3d62-4ec6-8e1f-5e2353d8712d/1/320x400.jpeg)
I view therapy as a very human process, as well as a very sacred one. While I am theoretically grounded in narrative and postmodern practices, I believe in using an integrated approach including Solution-Focused therapy, Positive Psychology, Motivational Interviewing, Existential-Humanistic Therapy, Family Systems, client-centered therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I believe that positive outcomes stem from working collaboratively with clients to build trusting relationships while attending to every person’s unique needs.
I view therapy as a very human process, as well as a very sacred one. While I am theoretically grounded in narrative and postmodern practices, I believe in using an integrated approach including Solution-Focused therapy, Positive Psychology, Motivational Interviewing, Existential-Humanistic Therapy, Family Systems, client-centered therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I believe that positive outcomes stem from working collaboratively with clients to build trusting relationships while attending to every person’s unique needs.
![Photo of Eve Martin, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a919ac6b-7088-4056-9e08-9fb3555774d1/2/320x400.jpeg)
My clinical philosophy is one of pragmatism sprinkled with humor, based on treating each client as an individual with specific needs and empowering clients through education as well as introspection. I work collaboratively with each client to better understand and resolve challenges in their lives. By utilizing complementary therapy approaches and techniques along with a positive alliance with each client and colleague, I work to transform and rework significant emotional experiences and family issues that may be holding clients back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
My clinical philosophy is one of pragmatism sprinkled with humor, based on treating each client as an individual with specific needs and empowering clients through education as well as introspection. I work collaboratively with each client to better understand and resolve challenges in their lives. By utilizing complementary therapy approaches and techniques along with a positive alliance with each client and colleague, I work to transform and rework significant emotional experiences and family issues that may be holding clients back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
![Photo of Alicia Dominguez, LCSW, MBA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4877a2fe-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alicia Dominguez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MBA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Santa Ana, CA 92706 (Online Only)
Are you having challenges in your relationships? Are you feeling unfulfilled at work or home? How we relate to others can have tremendous impact on our quality of life. Many times, working on ourselves from within translates to more fulfilling relationships with those around us.
Are you having challenges in your relationships? Are you feeling unfulfilled at work or home? How we relate to others can have tremendous impact on our quality of life. Many times, working on ourselves from within translates to more fulfilling relationships with those around us.
![Photo of Ryann DeSouza, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/80b1d89b-1e15-4db5-8242-c40abb3f11e1/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a direct and supportive therapist. I challenge my client's line of thinking and ask for them to be active participants in the therapeutic process. I work well with motivated and honest individuals. I'm a heavy believer in doing the work outside of the session, as well collaborative approach inside of the session. I will hold you accountable for doing and practicing your homework outside of the session, and I'm an active participant in helping you achieve your goals. I'm here to work hard for you, as long you're willing to work hard as well.
I am a direct and supportive therapist. I challenge my client's line of thinking and ask for them to be active participants in the therapeutic process. I work well with motivated and honest individuals. I'm a heavy believer in doing the work outside of the session, as well collaborative approach inside of the session. I will hold you accountable for doing and practicing your homework outside of the session, and I'm an active participant in helping you achieve your goals. I'm here to work hard for you, as long you're willing to work hard as well.
![Photo of Lynne Palmer, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cb629e2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
Over the years, I have had the opportunity to work with a variety of clients. To choose one ideal client would be impossible for me. I have enjoyed working with adolescents, children, young adults, older adults, couples, and families. Treatment has included addressing anger issues, substance abuse, self-esteem deficits, depression, anxiety, marital issues, domestic violence, as well as gay/lesbian issues. Utilizing a positive regard for each client while creating a treatment plan with the client to address his/her concerns, I strive to develop therapeutic relationships with my clients that will maximize effective healing.
Over the years, I have had the opportunity to work with a variety of clients. To choose one ideal client would be impossible for me. I have enjoyed working with adolescents, children, young adults, older adults, couples, and families. Treatment has included addressing anger issues, substance abuse, self-esteem deficits, depression, anxiety, marital issues, domestic violence, as well as gay/lesbian issues. Utilizing a positive regard for each client while creating a treatment plan with the client to address his/her concerns, I strive to develop therapeutic relationships with my clients that will maximize effective healing.
![Photo of Candace Billinger, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b769e060-fba8-4f85-9291-6a8bbb83df95/1/320x400.png)
Candace Billinger
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Ana, CA 92705
I help individuals and families who feel stuck in their identity/relationships and provide the tools to move forward with confidence in current and future life transitions. I also help discouraged MARRIED clients navigate through roadblocks by providing the tools to overcome them. We will deepen the intimacy in your marriage and strengthen your communication. I also work with clients with issues such as: marriage preparation, healthy dating, identity issues, trauma, inner healing, and confidence building.
I help individuals and families who feel stuck in their identity/relationships and provide the tools to move forward with confidence in current and future life transitions. I also help discouraged MARRIED clients navigate through roadblocks by providing the tools to overcome them. We will deepen the intimacy in your marriage and strengthen your communication. I also work with clients with issues such as: marriage preparation, healthy dating, identity issues, trauma, inner healing, and confidence building.
![Photo of Ruya Urso, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/89cf7bf1-815c-4c7f-bd6f-cecb59f29115/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ruya Urso
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Ana, CA 92707 (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist offering supportive, strength-based therapy to adults and families. I have a B.A. in Psychology from George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia and an M.A. in Counseling with Emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Webster University in Irvine, California. Throughout my carrier, I have worked with clients with a variety of issues and from all socio-economic, cultural and religious backgrounds. My experience in College Hospital, a mental health facility, trained me to understand how different mental health issues can be compounded by trauma and substance abuse, as well as preparing me for dealing with clients with variety of mental health problems. I have extensive experience with children, adolescents and adults who had experienced different traumas. Among my areas of experience are anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, women's issues, adolescents' issues and family problems. I utilize many different treatment modalities and treatment techniques depending on the client's needs.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist offering supportive, strength-based therapy to adults and families. I have a B.A. in Psychology from George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia and an M.A. in Counseling with Emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Webster University in Irvine, California. Throughout my carrier, I have worked with clients with a variety of issues and from all socio-economic, cultural and religious backgrounds. My experience in College Hospital, a mental health facility, trained me to understand how different mental health issues can be compounded by trauma and substance abuse, as well as preparing me for dealing with clients with variety of mental health problems. I have extensive experience with children, adolescents and adults who had experienced different traumas. Among my areas of experience are anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, women's issues, adolescents' issues and family problems. I utilize many different treatment modalities and treatment techniques depending on the client's needs.
![Photo of Joyce Bart Simpson, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cb7e2e6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/5/320x400.jpeg)
I enjoy helping men & women who are stressed or stuck to explore their dreams. We will discover and practice the tools to give you a more rewarding and fulfilling life. I specialize in couples counseling with my husband/partner, Bob Simpson. I also work with addictions including gambling and eating disorders as well as with generalized anxiety, OCD and depression. Together we can find the keys to life balance and happiness. I hope to have fun with my clients as together we find their joy and fulfillment. Call me and let's talk and see if I can be of help to you!
I enjoy helping men & women who are stressed or stuck to explore their dreams. We will discover and practice the tools to give you a more rewarding and fulfilling life. I specialize in couples counseling with my husband/partner, Bob Simpson. I also work with addictions including gambling and eating disorders as well as with generalized anxiety, OCD and depression. Together we can find the keys to life balance and happiness. I hope to have fun with my clients as together we find their joy and fulfillment. Call me and let's talk and see if I can be of help to you!
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Nearby Substance Use Therapists Searches for Santa Ana
- Anaheim
- Anaheim Hills
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- Fountain Valley
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- Huntington Beach
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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.