Substance Use Therapists in Fort Carson, CO

Photo of Michael Conner - Invictus Counseling Associates, llc, LCSW, EMDR, ART, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Invictus Counseling Associates, llc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR, ART
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Carson, CO 80913
Trauma, divorce, life transitions, co-parenting issues. You may be experiencing sleep issues, emotional numbness, lack of interest in activities, and lack of energy. Many times there is also guilt associated with any one of these occurrences. With the correct treatment, you don't have to feel this way any longer.
Trauma, divorce, life transitions, co-parenting issues. You may be experiencing sleep issues, emotional numbness, lack of interest in activities, and lack of energy. Many times there is also guilt associated with any one of these occurrences. With the correct treatment, you don't have to feel this way any longer.
(719) 356-4376 View (719) 356-4376
Photo of Shannon Kaufman, MSW, LCSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shannon Kaufman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fort Carson, CO 80902
Are you experiencing stress in your life due to a relationship or life transition and need a safe place to talk? Are you struggling with finding balance between your work life and personal life? Or are you not feeling like you "should" after a new baby? Experiencing scary thoughts or difficulty adjusting to motherhood? Life transitions can be overwhelming! As your therapist, it is an honor for me to offer you support and guidance wherever you are in your life journey. Together we will explore your challenges and build a trusting relationship that fosters personal growth and healing.
Are you experiencing stress in your life due to a relationship or life transition and need a safe place to talk? Are you struggling with finding balance between your work life and personal life? Or are you not feeling like you "should" after a new baby? Experiencing scary thoughts or difficulty adjusting to motherhood? Life transitions can be overwhelming! As your therapist, it is an honor for me to offer you support and guidance wherever you are in your life journey. Together we will explore your challenges and build a trusting relationship that fosters personal growth and healing.
(719) 445-8103 View (719) 445-8103
Photo of Matthew L Piciulo, MA, AASAT, IAPC, SRPC, PASTOR
Matthew L Piciulo
Unlicensed Psychotherapist, MA, AASAT, IAPC, SRPC, PASTOR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Carson, CO 80913
Has your spouse cheated on you? Have you been shattered by finding porn on his device or an emotional affair? Trust or communication issues, just feel married & alone or in a sexless marriage roommate existence? There's a reason why and I can help. "Intimacy Anorexia" is a possibility! If something feels broken and you need help my program is real in process. Not always talk, but action and work to build a healed life and marriage! Stop feeling lost hurt and angry! I can help! I have 18 IA/SA groups & counseling & Tele-sessions available. I work with military men/couples exclusively from SF Groups & SOF teams worldwide.
Has your spouse cheated on you? Have you been shattered by finding porn on his device or an emotional affair? Trust or communication issues, just feel married & alone or in a sexless marriage roommate existence? There's a reason why and I can help. "Intimacy Anorexia" is a possibility! If something feels broken and you need help my program is real in process. Not always talk, but action and work to build a healed life and marriage! Stop feeling lost hurt and angry! I can help! I have 18 IA/SA groups & counseling & Tele-sessions available. I work with military men/couples exclusively from SF Groups & SOF teams worldwide.
(719) 359-4438 View (719) 359-4438
Photo of Nancy Pitre-Jasko, LPC, NCC, CGCS, CTMH, CCATP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nancy Pitre-Jasko
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CGCS, CTMH, CCATP
Verified Verified
Fort Carson, CO 80902  (Online Only)
The phrase, “If you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change,” has continually informed my work as a therapist. My clinical experience includes working with individuals impacted by depression, anxiety, relationship distress, trauma, grief and life transitions. I work with adults and couples using Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Positive Psychology and Solution-Focused Therapy approaches. I strive to offer you a framework of non-judgmental support and accountability that will empower you to reach your goals for lasting change and release what you don't want in your life.
The phrase, “If you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change,” has continually informed my work as a therapist. My clinical experience includes working with individuals impacted by depression, anxiety, relationship distress, trauma, grief and life transitions. I work with adults and couples using Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Positive Psychology and Solution-Focused Therapy approaches. I strive to offer you a framework of non-judgmental support and accountability that will empower you to reach your goals for lasting change and release what you don't want in your life.
(719) 356-3040 View (719) 356-3040
Photo of A'nna Jurich, MS, LCPC, LPC, CRADC, Counselor
A'nna Jurich
Counselor, MS, LCPC, LPC, CRADC
Verified Verified
Fort Carson, CO 80902  (Online Only)
I love helping people overcome struggles so that they can fully enjoy life as it is meant to be! Things happen, and sometimes even our best efforts aren’t enough to change behavior patterns or to let go of events, losses, or fears. Everyone can heal and change. I will listen to your unique story and help guide you to freedom from your struggles.
I love helping people overcome struggles so that they can fully enjoy life as it is meant to be! Things happen, and sometimes even our best efforts aren’t enough to change behavior patterns or to let go of events, losses, or fears. Everyone can heal and change. I will listen to your unique story and help guide you to freedom from your struggles.
(618) 262-0151 View (618) 262-0151
Photo of Nathaniel Serra, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nathaniel Serra
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Fort Carson, CO 80913  (Online Only)
Whether you're experiencing overwhelming stress, substance abuse, relationship problems, a struggle to overcome an experience in the past, being 'stuck' and your own resources aren't enough, having support is essential. I find it a high honor to get to explore who you are and who you want to be. I want get to know you and your world, your understanding of life, your language. To find creative ways to deal with the stresses and problems that life throws our way. I want to walk alongside you while you discover authenticity, meaning, purpose and joy in your life.
Whether you're experiencing overwhelming stress, substance abuse, relationship problems, a struggle to overcome an experience in the past, being 'stuck' and your own resources aren't enough, having support is essential. I find it a high honor to get to explore who you are and who you want to be. I want get to know you and your world, your understanding of life, your language. To find creative ways to deal with the stresses and problems that life throws our way. I want to walk alongside you while you discover authenticity, meaning, purpose and joy in your life.
(719) 416-5824 View (719) 416-5824
Photo of Yamel Muñoz - You Are Worthy Counseling Services, PLLC, CSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
You Are Worthy Counseling Services, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW
Verified Verified
Fort Carson, CO 80913
Are you struggling to find your place or purpose within society or in life in general? Are you ready to work on your relationship? Perhaps you are ready to break free from those social norms and are hoping to build your own confident identity? Maybe you are ready to break from the generational or multigenerational trauma that has been normalized in your life? Yamel can help you heal from the effects of various traumas in a culturally-competent, affirming manner. As a first generation Latina in her family, she is well versed in the struggles and difficulties of finding your voice and reclaiming or reconstructing your identity or life
Are you struggling to find your place or purpose within society or in life in general? Are you ready to work on your relationship? Perhaps you are ready to break free from those social norms and are hoping to build your own confident identity? Maybe you are ready to break from the generational or multigenerational trauma that has been normalized in your life? Yamel can help you heal from the effects of various traumas in a culturally-competent, affirming manner. As a first generation Latina in her family, she is well versed in the struggles and difficulties of finding your voice and reclaiming or reconstructing your identity or life
(719) 800-7540 View (719) 800-7540
Photo of Marie-Anne Abenroth, MA, LPC, LAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marie-Anne Abenroth
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LAC
Verified Verified
Fort Carson, CO 80902  (Online Only)
Tired of feeling overwhelmed, anxious, worried, alert, and fatigued? Challenging life experiences can leave enduring imprints, making it hard to rediscover your authentic self. Trauma-informed counseling can help you find your way back. For those who desire to incorporate their Christian faith in their therapy, I am honored to provide a Christian perspective on mental health.
Tired of feeling overwhelmed, anxious, worried, alert, and fatigued? Challenging life experiences can leave enduring imprints, making it hard to rediscover your authentic self. Trauma-informed counseling can help you find your way back. For those who desire to incorporate their Christian faith in their therapy, I am honored to provide a Christian perspective on mental health.
(719) 988-3748 View (719) 988-3748
Photo of Julia Ness, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Julia Ness
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Carson, CO 80913
I would love the opportunity to help you navigate complex and challenging mental health issues that disrupt your daily life. You may struggle with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, relationship issues, ongoing stress, or unresolved grief. Perhaps you are a veteran or military family member dealing with unique challenges that outsiders might not fully understand, or you might be someone recovering from addiction or substance abuse, seeking a path to long-term sobriety and personal growth.
I would love the opportunity to help you navigate complex and challenging mental health issues that disrupt your daily life. You may struggle with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, relationship issues, ongoing stress, or unresolved grief. Perhaps you are a veteran or military family member dealing with unique challenges that outsiders might not fully understand, or you might be someone recovering from addiction or substance abuse, seeking a path to long-term sobriety and personal growth.
(719) 752-2403 View (719) 752-2403

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Brett Bartruff, DSW, LCSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Brett Bartruff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80916  (Online Only)
If you need an evaluation to help you determine mental health or substance use conditions, please reach out to me and let me help.
I am a proud LGBTQIA+ affirmative therapist and advocate providing full diagnostic assessment and individualized treatment recommendations. I aim to help clients discover and engage in a meaningful and purposeful life. T. I focus on understanding people holistically, with particular attention on a person’s strengths, attachments, stressful/traumatic events, and cultural environment. I integrate aspects of cognitive therapy, psycho-dynamic principles, adaptive processing theory, and motivational interviewing as part of my therapeutic practice.
If you need an evaluation to help you determine mental health or substance use conditions, please reach out to me and let me help.
I am a proud LGBTQIA+ affirmative therapist and advocate providing full diagnostic assessment and individualized treatment recommendations. I aim to help clients discover and engage in a meaningful and purposeful life. T. I focus on understanding people holistically, with particular attention on a person’s strengths, attachments, stressful/traumatic events, and cultural environment. I integrate aspects of cognitive therapy, psycho-dynamic principles, adaptive processing theory, and motivational interviewing as part of my therapeutic practice.
(385) 284-0423 View (385) 284-0423
Photo of Gabrielle Engelmann, LCSW, EMDR-T, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gabrielle Engelmann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR-T
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80903
Whether you're dealing with bipolar disorder, substance use issues, or the effects of interpersonal violence, I'm here to join you on your courageous journey.
Are you feeling like you can't be your true self, weighed down by addiction, mental health, or past traumas? I believe in meeting you exactly where you are, understanding your unique experiences, and walking alongside you on your journey towards healing and growth. Taking that step into vulnerability can feel scary and unsettling, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to join you in this journey towards discovering and accepting yourself. I can't wait to empower you with the tools you need to make the changes you want in your life - you know yourself best, and I'd be honored to be along for the ride!
Whether you're dealing with bipolar disorder, substance use issues, or the effects of interpersonal violence, I'm here to join you on your courageous journey.
Are you feeling like you can't be your true self, weighed down by addiction, mental health, or past traumas? I believe in meeting you exactly where you are, understanding your unique experiences, and walking alongside you on your journey towards healing and growth. Taking that step into vulnerability can feel scary and unsettling, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to join you in this journey towards discovering and accepting yourself. I can't wait to empower you with the tools you need to make the changes you want in your life - you know yourself best, and I'd be honored to be along for the ride!
(719) 738-8316 View (719) 738-8316
Photo of Cindy Davis, LPC, LAC, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cindy Davis
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LAC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80903  (Online Only)
The primary emphasis of my master’s level studies was trauma and substance use disorders.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 12 years of experience counseling individuals, couples, and groups. Since 2010, my studies and career have focused on identifying underlying problems that contribute to relationship problems, substance use, and other problematic behaviors that limit the quality of life.
The primary emphasis of my master’s level studies was trauma and substance use disorders.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 12 years of experience counseling individuals, couples, and groups. Since 2010, my studies and career have focused on identifying underlying problems that contribute to relationship problems, substance use, and other problematic behaviors that limit the quality of life.
(303) 997-3095 View (303) 997-3095
Photo of Susanna Huffman, MS, LPC, LCDC, CSAT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Susanna Huffman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCDC, CSAT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80907
I specialize in treating the following: Infidelity and Betrayal Trauma, Divorce, compulsive sexual behaviors, substance use disorders, adolescents, and Trauma/Family trauma.
I am passionate about working with those who are experiencing a substance use disorder, sex addiction, problematic porn, and trauma. This includes partners and family members experiencing the betrayal of what it means to love a person who has an attachment and addiction disorder. I am fiercely committed to supporting you in a recovery journey and have years of experience to pull from. My style is direct, yet curious as I recognize each person has a different set of traits. I am comfortable holding space for all, including those who are culturally diverse & the LGBTQ+ community. I truly love getting to learn from each of my clients.
I specialize in treating the following: Infidelity and Betrayal Trauma, Divorce, compulsive sexual behaviors, substance use disorders, adolescents, and Trauma/Family trauma.
I am passionate about working with those who are experiencing a substance use disorder, sex addiction, problematic porn, and trauma. This includes partners and family members experiencing the betrayal of what it means to love a person who has an attachment and addiction disorder. I am fiercely committed to supporting you in a recovery journey and have years of experience to pull from. My style is direct, yet curious as I recognize each person has a different set of traits. I am comfortable holding space for all, including those who are culturally diverse & the LGBTQ+ community. I truly love getting to learn from each of my clients.
(469) 529-6463 View (469) 529-6463
Photo of Connor Scroggins, MA, LPCC
Connor Scroggins
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80903
For those in substance use recovery, we'll focus on building resilience and developing coping strategies.
Are you struggling with substance use recovery, navigating life as a veteran or family member of one, or seeking to understand your authentic self better? I'm Connor Scroggins (he/him), and I'm here to support you on your journey toward personal growth, self-acceptance, and empowerment. My unique approach combines existential-humanistic principles with a feminist perspective, creating a safe and nurturing space for you to explore your individuality, purpose, and search for meaning in life.
For those in substance use recovery, we'll focus on building resilience and developing coping strategies.
Are you struggling with substance use recovery, navigating life as a veteran or family member of one, or seeking to understand your authentic self better? I'm Connor Scroggins (he/him), and I'm here to support you on your journey toward personal growth, self-acceptance, and empowerment. My unique approach combines existential-humanistic principles with a feminist perspective, creating a safe and nurturing space for you to explore your individuality, purpose, and search for meaning in life.
(719) 215-9871 View (719) 215-9871
Photo of Maggie Wehrmann, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maggie Wehrmann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80902  (Online Only)
I have experience offering Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, substance use treatment, and Trauma-Focused CBT, all with a client-centered approach.
Thank you for taking the time to read a little about me! My ideal client is someone who seeks growth, reflection, and to resolve issues, and is open to the supportive environment of therapy. I work with a variety of clients with differing goals. My work experience includes trauma, addition, domestic violence, relationship issues, work-related issues, anxiety, anger, and depression. I have experience working with a variety of populations, including LGBTQ, Spanish speaking, youth, & adults. My clients know themselves best; therefore, treatment goals & pace of treatment is a collaborative approach.
I have experience offering Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, substance use treatment, and Trauma-Focused CBT, all with a client-centered approach.
Thank you for taking the time to read a little about me! My ideal client is someone who seeks growth, reflection, and to resolve issues, and is open to the supportive environment of therapy. I work with a variety of clients with differing goals. My work experience includes trauma, addition, domestic violence, relationship issues, work-related issues, anxiety, anger, and depression. I have experience working with a variety of populations, including LGBTQ, Spanish speaking, youth, & adults. My clients know themselves best; therefore, treatment goals & pace of treatment is a collaborative approach.
(303) 952-1905 View (303) 952-1905
Photo of Nicole Kealoha Loría, LPCC, MSCP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Nicole Kealoha Loría
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPCC, MSCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80904  (Online Only)
Nicole's mental health counseling experience includes working with indigenous populations, PTSD, depression, anxiety, bipolar, substance use disorders, trauma, DV, at-risk youth, pre and postpartum depression.
As a native Spanish speaker, Nicole is 100% bilingual in English and Spanish and passionate about working with Hispanic / Latinx populations given her shared experience as a Latina living in North America. Nicole believes healing is unique to each individual and utilizes an eclectic approach to collaborate with clients on their journey toward well-being. Nicole is also a certified yoga instructor with over 20 years of teaching experience with diverse populations such as male inmates in maximum security prisons and women struggling with addiction and domestic violence.
Nicole's mental health counseling experience includes working with indigenous populations, PTSD, depression, anxiety, bipolar, substance use disorders, trauma, DV, at-risk youth, pre and postpartum depression.
As a native Spanish speaker, Nicole is 100% bilingual in English and Spanish and passionate about working with Hispanic / Latinx populations given her shared experience as a Latina living in North America. Nicole believes healing is unique to each individual and utilizes an eclectic approach to collaborate with clients on their journey toward well-being. Nicole is also a certified yoga instructor with over 20 years of teaching experience with diverse populations such as male inmates in maximum security prisons and women struggling with addiction and domestic violence.
(719) 212-9540 View (719) 212-9540
Photo of Addison Adona - Nexus Counseling Services, MS, LPCC, AAT
Nexus Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate , MS, LPCC, AAT
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80911
I am proficient and experienced in substance use and addiction counseling, and draw from DBT, CBT, Gestalt, Adlerian and existential theories.
It can be daunting to start talking to someone let alone bare yourself and face your challenges. I’m someone who will come alongside you on your journey of recovery and healing. I see you as the expert of your own life. I’m merely here to collaborate with you, offer new perspectives and identify achievable solutions! I love helping my clients overcome and recover from addiction, SPMI, trauma, anxiety/stress, depression, relationship and identity issues. From adolescence through adult men and women, I focus on helping my clients successfully become who they want to be during our time together!
I am proficient and experienced in substance use and addiction counseling, and draw from DBT, CBT, Gestalt, Adlerian and existential theories.
It can be daunting to start talking to someone let alone bare yourself and face your challenges. I’m someone who will come alongside you on your journey of recovery and healing. I see you as the expert of your own life. I’m merely here to collaborate with you, offer new perspectives and identify achievable solutions! I love helping my clients overcome and recover from addiction, SPMI, trauma, anxiety/stress, depression, relationship and identity issues. From adolescence through adult men and women, I focus on helping my clients successfully become who they want to be during our time together!
(719) 624-4953 View (719) 624-4953
Photo of Tynea Drakeford, MFT-C, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Tynea Drakeford
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MFT-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80904  (Online Only)
Tynea aspires to support clients through many avenues including couples, family sessions and individual therapy. Tynea has experience supporting clients working through trauma, anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, postpartum depression, grief, and more. She also has experience as a co-occurring counselor and has experience supporting clients who suffer from both substance use disorders and mental health disorders simultaneously. Tynea believes that everyone should feel support when they express challenging and traumatic experiences; regardless what capacity of therapy they are receiving.
Tynea aspires to support clients through many avenues including couples, family sessions and individual therapy. Tynea has experience supporting clients working through trauma, anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, postpartum depression, grief, and more. She also has experience as a co-occurring counselor and has experience supporting clients who suffer from both substance use disorders and mental health disorders simultaneously. Tynea believes that everyone should feel support when they express challenging and traumatic experiences; regardless what capacity of therapy they are receiving.
(970) 665-4874 View (970) 665-4874
Photo of Addison Sayre-Adona, MS, LPCC, AAT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Addison Sayre-Adona
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, LPCC, AAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80907
I can, also, provide Acu-Detox (ear accupunture) which can help with physical pain, anxiety, insomnia, trauma recovery and healing, ADD/ADHD, withdrawl symptoms, and substance use and cravings.
I know that it can be daunting to start talking to someone, let alone to bare yourself to them and admit all your struggles. Rest assured, I am here to come along side you as you seek to figure out what is holding you back in your life! As a therapist, I am nonjudgmental and warm. I strive to meet you exactly where you are at and work with you to come up with a game plan to get you to where you want to be! I work with individuals, couples, and families. Some of my chosen areas are depression, anxiety, trauma, substance abuse, personality and co-occurring mood disorders, narcissistic abuse recovery, LGBTQIA+, and relationships.
I can, also, provide Acu-Detox (ear accupunture) which can help with physical pain, anxiety, insomnia, trauma recovery and healing, ADD/ADHD, withdrawl symptoms, and substance use and cravings.
I know that it can be daunting to start talking to someone, let alone to bare yourself to them and admit all your struggles. Rest assured, I am here to come along side you as you seek to figure out what is holding you back in your life! As a therapist, I am nonjudgmental and warm. I strive to meet you exactly where you are at and work with you to come up with a game plan to get you to where you want to be! I work with individuals, couples, and families. Some of my chosen areas are depression, anxiety, trauma, substance abuse, personality and co-occurring mood disorders, narcissistic abuse recovery, LGBTQIA+, and relationships.
(719) 767-1557 View (719) 767-1557
Photo of Linda Suzanne Elma - Life Skills Management Services LLC, MBA, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Life Skills Management Services LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MBA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80910  (Online Only)
We are licensed in Oregon, Maine, Minnesota, Florida, Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, North Carolina and Colorado. We currently offer telehealth and virtual therapeutic services. We work with individuals with a wide range of concerns including depression, mood disorders, family relations issues, substance use disorders, and co-occurring disorders. We combine different therapeutic approaches based on client's presenting concerns, goals, and motivation, such as, cognitive-behavioral, brief therapy, mindfulness, client-centered, solution-focused therapy.
We are licensed in Oregon, Maine, Minnesota, Florida, Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, North Carolina and Colorado. We currently offer telehealth and virtual therapeutic services. We work with individuals with a wide range of concerns including depression, mood disorders, family relations issues, substance use disorders, and co-occurring disorders. We combine different therapeutic approaches based on client's presenting concerns, goals, and motivation, such as, cognitive-behavioral, brief therapy, mindfulness, client-centered, solution-focused therapy.
(720) 358-8962 View (720) 358-8962

See more therapy options for Fort Carson

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.