Substance Use Therapists in Aurora, CO

Photo of Amber D Cornett, MSW, LCSW, LAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amber D Cornett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Aurora, CO 80016
This way of working is strength-based and can response to a wide range of concerns including substance use, anxiety, depression, life transitions, and overall mental wellness.
I’ve come to this work because I am passionate about helping individuals and families become more fulfilled in their lives. My focus is to help you call upon your own strengths to separate from the problems that may be standing in the way of the life you want to live. I believe the most important aspect of therapy is developing a good client-therapist rapport and creating a safe space for my clients to express themselves freely. Collaborative therapy sessions will provide you the opportunity to better understand the issues that are causing difficulty in your life and encourage motivation for desired changes.
This way of working is strength-based and can response to a wide range of concerns including substance use, anxiety, depression, life transitions, and overall mental wellness.
I’ve come to this work because I am passionate about helping individuals and families become more fulfilled in their lives. My focus is to help you call upon your own strengths to separate from the problems that may be standing in the way of the life you want to live. I believe the most important aspect of therapy is developing a good client-therapist rapport and creating a safe space for my clients to express themselves freely. Collaborative therapy sessions will provide you the opportunity to better understand the issues that are causing difficulty in your life and encourage motivation for desired changes.
(720) 821-1260 View (720) 821-1260
Photo of Mountain Thrive Counseling - Cortnney Faulkner, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mountain Thrive Counseling - Cortnney Faulkner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aurora, CO 80014
I have extensive experience working with trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, women's issues, substance use, LGBTQ+ issues and eating disorders.
With a deep commitment to integrating mind-body connections in therapy, I strive to create a safe, nurturing and non-judgmental space for clients to navigate challenges, develop coping skills and cultivate resilience in the face of adversity. I guide clients in the exploration of their thoughts, emotions and physical experiences to foster a sense of balance. I use an integrative style utilizing different evidence-based techniques. With your guidance, I can help you create goals that you hope to achieve and create a plan to reach these goals.
I have extensive experience working with trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, women's issues, substance use, LGBTQ+ issues and eating disorders.
With a deep commitment to integrating mind-body connections in therapy, I strive to create a safe, nurturing and non-judgmental space for clients to navigate challenges, develop coping skills and cultivate resilience in the face of adversity. I guide clients in the exploration of their thoughts, emotions and physical experiences to foster a sense of balance. I use an integrative style utilizing different evidence-based techniques. With your guidance, I can help you create goals that you hope to achieve and create a plan to reach these goals.
(720) 675-8259 View (720) 675-8259
Photo of Morghan M Weber, LCSW, LAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Morghan M Weber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LAC
Verified Verified
Aurora, CO 80013  (Online Only)
Are you ready for a change, and lost about how to make it? Many of us spend a lot of our lives struggling with what should be and the challenges of what is not. Whether it be substance use, relationship orientation and desires, grief, issues of depression and anxiety, or something else that is bothering you, I hope to co-create a journey in which you can allow yourself to let down, reflect, and gain skills to change the aspects of your life that you want to see improve or shift. *I believe access to mental health care should be a basic human right and provide reduced fee services, please inquire.*
Are you ready for a change, and lost about how to make it? Many of us spend a lot of our lives struggling with what should be and the challenges of what is not. Whether it be substance use, relationship orientation and desires, grief, issues of depression and anxiety, or something else that is bothering you, I hope to co-create a journey in which you can allow yourself to let down, reflect, and gain skills to change the aspects of your life that you want to see improve or shift. *I believe access to mental health care should be a basic human right and provide reduced fee services, please inquire.*
(720) 702-4886 View (720) 702-4886
Photo of Maureen Dieterich, LPC LAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Maureen Dieterich
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC LAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Aurora, CO 80012
When life, relationships, or other personal issues feel out of control, solutions and support can be difficult to find! As a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Addictions Counselor with over 10 years of direct client experience (residential and outpatient), and as a wife and mom 25 years, I have helped hundreds of men and women from all walks of life. I love helping my clients regain self-compassion and make progress quickly by using evidence-based practices. I specialize in anxiety, depression, relationships, life transitions, substance use issues, gender/sexuality matters and personal growth/change.
When life, relationships, or other personal issues feel out of control, solutions and support can be difficult to find! As a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Addictions Counselor with over 10 years of direct client experience (residential and outpatient), and as a wife and mom 25 years, I have helped hundreds of men and women from all walks of life. I love helping my clients regain self-compassion and make progress quickly by using evidence-based practices. I specialize in anxiety, depression, relationships, life transitions, substance use issues, gender/sexuality matters and personal growth/change.
(720) 729-2188 View (720) 729-2188
Photo of Katie Craft - Katie Craft - Santosha Wellness Group, LPC, LAC, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katie Craft - Santosha Wellness Group
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LAC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Aurora, CO 80016
I have experience working with many mental health issues including substance use disorders, trauma, anxiety and depression.
Utilizing a collaborative approach to healing, I am able to provide support and acceptance without judgement. I bring an easy-going energy to session with a gentle push when necessary. I view clients through a person-centered and trauma informed lens, believing you are the expert when it comes to your own experiences in life. I will work to help empower my clients while highlighting strengths they already possess to take control of their lives. Every individual deserves to be heard and seen and I provide this through a strong therapeutic alliance and relational depth.
I have experience working with many mental health issues including substance use disorders, trauma, anxiety and depression.
Utilizing a collaborative approach to healing, I am able to provide support and acceptance without judgement. I bring an easy-going energy to session with a gentle push when necessary. I view clients through a person-centered and trauma informed lens, believing you are the expert when it comes to your own experiences in life. I will work to help empower my clients while highlighting strengths they already possess to take control of their lives. Every individual deserves to be heard and seen and I provide this through a strong therapeutic alliance and relational depth.
(720) 513-2078 View (720) 513-2078
Photo of Dr. Mary Woodson, PhD, LCAS, LCMHC, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Dr. Mary Woodson
Counselor, PhD, LCAS, LCMHC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aurora, CO 80010  (Online Only)
I provide counseling services to families, adults, and adolescents (ages 12-19) with general mental health concerns and substance use disorders.
If you or your teenager can answer yes to ANY of these questions, let's schedule a time to meet conveniently online: Feeling hopeless or like things aren't going to get better? Having difficulty speaking up for yourself or communicating with others?Is it hard adjusting to change? Do you wish you had a clear plan towards reaching your goals? Do you deal with stress? Are you in an open, poly, or non-monogamous relationship (ENM)? Do you have negative thoughts or struggle with low self-esteem? Are you starting to use alcohol or drugs to cope with your problems and worried it may be getting out of control?
I provide counseling services to families, adults, and adolescents (ages 12-19) with general mental health concerns and substance use disorders.
If you or your teenager can answer yes to ANY of these questions, let's schedule a time to meet conveniently online: Feeling hopeless or like things aren't going to get better? Having difficulty speaking up for yourself or communicating with others?Is it hard adjusting to change? Do you wish you had a clear plan towards reaching your goals? Do you deal with stress? Are you in an open, poly, or non-monogamous relationship (ENM)? Do you have negative thoughts or struggle with low self-esteem? Are you starting to use alcohol or drugs to cope with your problems and worried it may be getting out of control?
(919) 899-2841 View (919) 899-2841
Photo of Courtney Deyo-Bundy - Axis Integrated Mental Health -Courtney Deyo-Bundy, MA, LPC, LAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Axis Integrated Mental Health -Courtney Deyo-Bundy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LAC
Verified Verified
Aurora, CO 80012
Accepting new patients! I believe in a holistic approach to mental health and can support you either as a standalone talk therapist or with ketamine-assisted psychotherapy. I work with our in-house psychiatrists to get you the results you want with your mental health with or without meds. Ask me about TMS! Wherever you are on your journey, I am ready to help you overcome the roadblocks of depression, anxiety, grief/loss, trauma, low self-esteem/self-worth, identity exploration, substance use, or whatever else has been holding you back from living the life you want to live. "Little by little, one travels far." - Unknown
Accepting new patients! I believe in a holistic approach to mental health and can support you either as a standalone talk therapist or with ketamine-assisted psychotherapy. I work with our in-house psychiatrists to get you the results you want with your mental health with or without meds. Ask me about TMS! Wherever you are on your journey, I am ready to help you overcome the roadblocks of depression, anxiety, grief/loss, trauma, low self-esteem/self-worth, identity exploration, substance use, or whatever else has been holding you back from living the life you want to live. "Little by little, one travels far." - Unknown
(720) 806-5538 View (720) 806-5538
Photo of Jeanette M Barich - Vista Counseling Services, LCSW, LAC, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vista Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LAC, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aurora, CO 80014
I specialize in working with people experiencing depression, anxiety, PTSD, relational issues, and substance use concerns. I offer EMDR therapy and other Integrative therapies such as neurofeedback, biofeedback, or Auricular Acupuncture (ADS). I have over a decade of expertise in domestic violence. I conduct civil and PRE Evaluations, as well as consulting work. Please call to see if I can help.
I specialize in working with people experiencing depression, anxiety, PTSD, relational issues, and substance use concerns. I offer EMDR therapy and other Integrative therapies such as neurofeedback, biofeedback, or Auricular Acupuncture (ADS). I have over a decade of expertise in domestic violence. I conduct civil and PRE Evaluations, as well as consulting work. Please call to see if I can help.
(303) 816-8252 View (303) 816-8252
Photo of Mallory Kruse, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mallory Kruse
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Aurora, CO 80015
Trauma often leaves one with unresolved emotional wounds and patterns of coping that no longer serve them. As a licensed psychotherapist, I specialize in helping adults who have suffered from trauma, with a deep understanding of how these experiences impact emotional and psychological well-being. I commonly work with clients dealing with complex post-traumatic stress, depression, anxiety, grief, substance use, as well as challenges related to attachment, identity, and relationships.
Trauma often leaves one with unresolved emotional wounds and patterns of coping that no longer serve them. As a licensed psychotherapist, I specialize in helping adults who have suffered from trauma, with a deep understanding of how these experiences impact emotional and psychological well-being. I commonly work with clients dealing with complex post-traumatic stress, depression, anxiety, grief, substance use, as well as challenges related to attachment, identity, and relationships.
(720) 782-8993 View (720) 782-8993
Photo of Casey Lucarelli, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Casey Lucarelli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Aurora, CO 80018
I specialize in working with individuals who struggle with past trauma, relational issues, identity, substance use and process addictions. It takes a lot of courage to face some undesirable truths about oneself and inviting a therapist on this journey can be overwhelming. I hold a safe and non-judgmental space for my clients and practice from a place of compassion and acceptance. My hope is for you to gain insight and thrive throughout your life rather than just survive.
I specialize in working with individuals who struggle with past trauma, relational issues, identity, substance use and process addictions. It takes a lot of courage to face some undesirable truths about oneself and inviting a therapist on this journey can be overwhelming. I hold a safe and non-judgmental space for my clients and practice from a place of compassion and acceptance. My hope is for you to gain insight and thrive throughout your life rather than just survive.
(720) 366-7206 View (720) 366-7206
Photo of Anita Adams, LPC, Counselor
Anita Adams
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Aurora, CO 80015  (Online Only)
Hi, I am Anita Adams, and I am a licensed professional counselor and a licensed addictions counselor who has worked, primarily with the forensic population who are currently incarcerated. I am skilled in cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and solution focused brief therapy. I am also trained in eye movement rapid desensitization and reprocessing therapy (EMDR), and frequently work with clients who exhibit co-occurring disorders including post-traumatic stress disorder and substance use disorders.
Hi, I am Anita Adams, and I am a licensed professional counselor and a licensed addictions counselor who has worked, primarily with the forensic population who are currently incarcerated. I am skilled in cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and solution focused brief therapy. I am also trained in eye movement rapid desensitization and reprocessing therapy (EMDR), and frequently work with clients who exhibit co-occurring disorders including post-traumatic stress disorder and substance use disorders.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Sharon Pendlebury, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sharon Pendlebury
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Aurora, CO 80013  (Online Only)
I am comfortable supporting people who are working on managing symptoms of depression, anxiety of any type, trauma induced illness, grief and loss and substance use disorder or who are complicating complex life transitions.
Hello, I'm Sharon! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is committed to supporting my clients to successfully work through complex changes they have identified in their life. My underlying therapeutic approach is a humanistic one. I will partner with you with empathy, respect and unconditional positive regard throughout our time working together and we will collaborate to develop a clinical plan that is consistent with your goals and priorities. The most common therapeutic modalities I use in my work are CBT, DBT, Strengths Based and Solution Based.
I am comfortable supporting people who are working on managing symptoms of depression, anxiety of any type, trauma induced illness, grief and loss and substance use disorder or who are complicating complex life transitions.
Hello, I'm Sharon! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is committed to supporting my clients to successfully work through complex changes they have identified in their life. My underlying therapeutic approach is a humanistic one. I will partner with you with empathy, respect and unconditional positive regard throughout our time working together and we will collaborate to develop a clinical plan that is consistent with your goals and priorities. The most common therapeutic modalities I use in my work are CBT, DBT, Strengths Based and Solution Based.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Brittany Murphy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brittany Murphy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Aurora, CO 80013  (Online Only)
I typically work with 13 year olds to 70 year olds across mental health and substance use problems.
Hi, I'm Brittany Murphy, LCSW, LCDC a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor. I am licensed to practice social work Colorado, New Jersey, Texas, and Washington. I earned my Master's degree in Social Work from the University of Houston. Prior to becoming a therapist/social worker, I worked in the corporate business world for several years. I hold a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration.
I typically work with 13 year olds to 70 year olds across mental health and substance use problems.
Hi, I'm Brittany Murphy, LCSW, LCDC a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor. I am licensed to practice social work Colorado, New Jersey, Texas, and Washington. I earned my Master's degree in Social Work from the University of Houston. Prior to becoming a therapist/social worker, I worked in the corporate business world for several years. I hold a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Julia Smith, MA, LPCC
Julia Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Aurora, CO 80013  (Online Only)
Areas I specialize in are anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, and working with military members and their families.
My desire is to help adolescents and adults find meaning and understanding in their life. As a Professional Counselor Candidate, and graduate of Hazelden Betty Ford Graduate School of Addiction Studies, I have a diverse set of skills and experience in mental health and substance use.
Areas I specialize in are anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, and working with military members and their families.
My desire is to help adolescents and adults find meaning and understanding in their life. As a Professional Counselor Candidate, and graduate of Hazelden Betty Ford Graduate School of Addiction Studies, I have a diverse set of skills and experience in mental health and substance use.
(720) 823-5471 View (720) 823-5471
Photo of Kristan Corl - Kristan Corl | Mind and Body Connection LLC, LPC, LAC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristan Corl | Mind and Body Connection LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LAC, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Aurora, CO 80015  (Online Only)
I also have extensive experience in substance use treatment, guiding individuals in harm reduction or maintaining sobriety, based on their unique goals.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life's transitions, struggling with anxiety, or depression? Whether you're navigating personal challenges, managing addiction, or seeking balance in your mental health, I’m here to help. I specialize in working with adults (18-64), focusing on men’s and women’s issues, life transitions, and managing emotional distress. Together, we’ll create a safe and supportive space for healing and growth, empowering you to find clarity and resilience in the face of challenges.
I also have extensive experience in substance use treatment, guiding individuals in harm reduction or maintaining sobriety, based on their unique goals.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life's transitions, struggling with anxiety, or depression? Whether you're navigating personal challenges, managing addiction, or seeking balance in your mental health, I’m here to help. I specialize in working with adults (18-64), focusing on men’s and women’s issues, life transitions, and managing emotional distress. Together, we’ll create a safe and supportive space for healing and growth, empowering you to find clarity and resilience in the face of challenges.
(720) 706-6308 View (720) 706-6308
Photo of Amy Scott, LPC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy Scott
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Aurora, CO 80013  (Online Only)
Amy Scott, LPC, CCTP-1, She has worked with various mental health providers including the hospital setting, recovery setting, clinical mental health clinics, clinical assessment, and Care Coordination. Amy has found that her approach helps others create safe boundaries, transparency, intentionality, and time sensitive care. I am dedicated to helping others with anxiety, depression, trauma, family events, and substance use disorders. Amy has been complimented for the way that she engages with clients. Amy helps others foster communication, focus on what benefits them, and she offers them a solution-oriented approach.
Amy Scott, LPC, CCTP-1, She has worked with various mental health providers including the hospital setting, recovery setting, clinical mental health clinics, clinical assessment, and Care Coordination. Amy has found that her approach helps others create safe boundaries, transparency, intentionality, and time sensitive care. I am dedicated to helping others with anxiety, depression, trauma, family events, and substance use disorders. Amy has been complimented for the way that she engages with clients. Amy helps others foster communication, focus on what benefits them, and she offers them a solution-oriented approach.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Audrey Roberts, LAC, EMDR-T, Licensed Professional Counselor
Audrey Roberts
Licensed Professional Counselor, LAC, EMDR-T
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Aurora, CO 80018  (Online Only)
As a Black/mixed therapist, I offer a warm, empathetic, and inclusive space for you to navigate life's challenges. Specializing in anxiety, depression, trauma, and substance use, I blend humor with heartfelt compassion to support your healing journey. Life's struggles can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to face them alone. Together, we'll find practical tools and strategies to reclaim your calm, joy, and well-being.
As a Black/mixed therapist, I offer a warm, empathetic, and inclusive space for you to navigate life's challenges. Specializing in anxiety, depression, trauma, and substance use, I blend humor with heartfelt compassion to support your healing journey. Life's struggles can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to face them alone. Together, we'll find practical tools and strategies to reclaim your calm, joy, and well-being.
(303) 951-3811 View (303) 951-3811
Photo of Esther Rivera, MSW, LCSW, LAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Esther Rivera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LAC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Aurora, CO 80019  (Online Only)
Hello! I am Esther Rivera a dedicated, compassionate Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and a Licensed Addiction Counselor (LAC). I have extensive experience in providing therapeutic services to diverse populations. I specialize in mental health counseling and substance use, offering individual therapy in both English and Spanish. I am particularly passionate about helping adults who have experienced trauma, those seeking to work through generational patterns that have inhibited the development of their authentic selves, working with the Latinx clients.
Hello! I am Esther Rivera a dedicated, compassionate Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and a Licensed Addiction Counselor (LAC). I have extensive experience in providing therapeutic services to diverse populations. I specialize in mental health counseling and substance use, offering individual therapy in both English and Spanish. I am particularly passionate about helping adults who have experienced trauma, those seeking to work through generational patterns that have inhibited the development of their authentic selves, working with the Latinx clients.
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Photo of Sev Kiroglu - Sev Kiroglu - Mountain Thrive Counseling, LPCC
Sev Kiroglu - Mountain Thrive Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aurora, CO 80014
I have experience working with adolescents and adults with anxiety, depression, bipolar needs, suicidal thinking, grief, trauma, criminal justice needs, LGBTQ+ related issues, ADHD, substance use and other concerns.
My aim is to foster a therapeutic space that is client-centered and supportive. As a client, you can expect to have a hands-on approach in your treatment by setting goals that you believe are important in creating the change you want for yourself. Each individual is unique and I do not believe in “one size fits all” therapy, so I will meet you where you are and work with you from there. I strive to empower clients and support their goals by developing and enhancing client skills using a variety of evidence-based interventions. I present a strength-based and solution-focused approach.
I have experience working with adolescents and adults with anxiety, depression, bipolar needs, suicidal thinking, grief, trauma, criminal justice needs, LGBTQ+ related issues, ADHD, substance use and other concerns.
My aim is to foster a therapeutic space that is client-centered and supportive. As a client, you can expect to have a hands-on approach in your treatment by setting goals that you believe are important in creating the change you want for yourself. Each individual is unique and I do not believe in “one size fits all” therapy, so I will meet you where you are and work with you from there. I strive to empower clients and support their goals by developing and enhancing client skills using a variety of evidence-based interventions. I present a strength-based and solution-focused approach.
(720) 675-8259 View (720) 675-8259
Photo of Nancy Mickelson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nancy Mickelson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Aurora, CO 80015
A strong therapeutic relationship is the cornerstone of healing and growth. My passion lies in creating a safe, positive space where adolescents can openly share their thoughts and feelings, learn to navigate life's challenges, and develop resilience. I understand that the current climate, with its social distancing and remote learning, has taken a toll on many young people, leading to increased anxiety, depression, and even substance use. These struggles often ripple through the entire family, creating stress and disconnection. That's why I offer both individual therapy for adolescents and coaching sessions for parents.
A strong therapeutic relationship is the cornerstone of healing and growth. My passion lies in creating a safe, positive space where adolescents can openly share their thoughts and feelings, learn to navigate life's challenges, and develop resilience. I understand that the current climate, with its social distancing and remote learning, has taken a toll on many young people, leading to increased anxiety, depression, and even substance use. These struggles often ripple through the entire family, creating stress and disconnection. That's why I offer both individual therapy for adolescents and coaching sessions for parents.
(720) 697-2547 View (720) 697-2547
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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.