Substance Use Therapists in Fort Walton Beach, FL
![Photo of Claire Jones, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0661db9f-015a-4708-aa20-42136c985ae2/2/320x400.jpeg)
I take a special interest in family conflict, substance use, behavioral issues, anxiety, depression, and grief.
I have experience working with clients from all walks of life. I have experience working with children and their families, teenagers, young adults, and adults of any age. My philosophy involves helping you get started with improving your life in a collaborative and supportive environment that involves us deciding the best path forward. My goal is to help you to rebuild your sense of self, and prevent your emotions from controlling your life. Life can throw a lot at us, and I would love to help restore your confidence in handling any problem that comes your way. I am also passionate about cultural inclusion and LGBTQ+ affirming care.
I take a special interest in family conflict, substance use, behavioral issues, anxiety, depression, and grief.
I have experience working with clients from all walks of life. I have experience working with children and their families, teenagers, young adults, and adults of any age. My philosophy involves helping you get started with improving your life in a collaborative and supportive environment that involves us deciding the best path forward. My goal is to help you to rebuild your sense of self, and prevent your emotions from controlling your life. Life can throw a lot at us, and I would love to help restore your confidence in handling any problem that comes your way. I am also passionate about cultural inclusion and LGBTQ+ affirming care.
![Photo of Aleighsha Webber, MS](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5811008d-abd3-432f-a352-16df03fe3454/1/320x400.jpeg)
Aleighsha Webber
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547
I also specialize in drug and alcohol treatment by tackling substance use from the root which can involve resolving trauma, depression, and/or anxiety.
I create a safe and trusting alliance with you to get to the root of your concerns and create the life you most want. I provide a non-judgmental space for you to process your struggles by being warm, compassionate, supportive, and down to earth. I deeply care about helping you obtain a more peaceful present. Past experiences can manifest in many different forms, and I address individuals from a holistic perspective. You are the expert on yourself while I provide a safe relationship and space to explore that collaboratively.
I also specialize in drug and alcohol treatment by tackling substance use from the root which can involve resolving trauma, depression, and/or anxiety.
I create a safe and trusting alliance with you to get to the root of your concerns and create the life you most want. I provide a non-judgmental space for you to process your struggles by being warm, compassionate, supportive, and down to earth. I deeply care about helping you obtain a more peaceful present. Past experiences can manifest in many different forms, and I address individuals from a holistic perspective. You are the expert on yourself while I provide a safe relationship and space to explore that collaboratively.
![Photo of Edgar E Cordoba, MSW, RCSWI, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6a7d68b0-5642-4ae1-9846-237cae4b9bd0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Life can be very challenging and we all have ways of coping with these challenges. Some ways of coping are healthy; others, not so much. When life overwhelms us, whether in marriage, family, job, or military career, our coping skills may no longer help us manage and we may look for quick fixes like alcohol or substances. If alcohol or substance use has taken over your life, or if anger and out-of-control emotions are ruling you, you have come to the right place.
Life can be very challenging and we all have ways of coping with these challenges. Some ways of coping are healthy; others, not so much. When life overwhelms us, whether in marriage, family, job, or military career, our coping skills may no longer help us manage and we may look for quick fixes like alcohol or substances. If alcohol or substance use has taken over your life, or if anger and out-of-control emotions are ruling you, you have come to the right place.
![Photo of Ray Sizemore, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43d91c00-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Ray Sizemore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547
I focus on two areas - relationships and trauma/PTSD - with couples, individuals, and families. Couples often struggle with a lack of emotional and physical intimacy, they've lost respect & trust for each other, have little companionship, poor communication, argue about finances, sex, children, etc. Trauma/PTSD is often an underlying cause of relationship problems. Many struggle with mental health and substance use as a result. They feel stressed, damaged, alone, numb, can't sleep/concentrate, have racing thoughts, mood swings, anger. They 've tried meds, therapy, substance rehab with little success and feel stuck. Is this you?
I focus on two areas - relationships and trauma/PTSD - with couples, individuals, and families. Couples often struggle with a lack of emotional and physical intimacy, they've lost respect & trust for each other, have little companionship, poor communication, argue about finances, sex, children, etc. Trauma/PTSD is often an underlying cause of relationship problems. Many struggle with mental health and substance use as a result. They feel stressed, damaged, alone, numb, can't sleep/concentrate, have racing thoughts, mood swings, anger. They 've tried meds, therapy, substance rehab with little success and feel stuck. Is this you?
![Photo of Rebecca Bortnyik, MS, LMHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7227385a-c4ae-45ba-895b-6232cab3218f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rebecca Bortnyik
Mental Health Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548
I believe insight and gained knowledge of self, plus learning skills can enable a person to live life to his/her potential. I help clients of all ages gain new perspectives, identify negative thinking patterns, develop a healthy expression of feelings. and problem solve.
I believe insight and gained knowledge of self, plus learning skills can enable a person to live life to his/her potential. I help clients of all ages gain new perspectives, identify negative thinking patterns, develop a healthy expression of feelings. and problem solve.
![Photo of Shirley Higgins - Shirley Higgins MA, LADC, LMFT, LLC., MA, LADC, LMFT, MCAP, SAP, Drug & Alcohol Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3dac2b70-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Shirley Higgins MA, LADC, LMFT, LLC.
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, LADC, LMFT, MCAP, SAP
Verified Verified
Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547
I am now Licensed in both Connecticut and Florida, current office location in CT, with telehealth in both CT and FL. Accepting Tricare and VA Community Network. I am now accepting Medicare Part B, and most commercial insurances. Every person has a journey in life and when consumed with stress, anxiety or any other problems, We can take that journey together and figure out the best way for you to go. Sometimes it helps to talk privately to someone you can trust. We will find the way that works best for you, quietly, privately and calmly. We will find the inner strength that each person has and expand and emphasize your strengths.
I am now Licensed in both Connecticut and Florida, current office location in CT, with telehealth in both CT and FL. Accepting Tricare and VA Community Network. I am now accepting Medicare Part B, and most commercial insurances. Every person has a journey in life and when consumed with stress, anxiety or any other problems, We can take that journey together and figure out the best way for you to go. Sometimes it helps to talk privately to someone you can trust. We will find the way that works best for you, quietly, privately and calmly. We will find the inner strength that each person has and expand and emphasize your strengths.
![Photo of Jennifer Jernigan - Jennifer Jernigan Counseling, MA, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b04ada08-397e-4ec1-b893-7a322fa0ee39/1/320x400.jpeg)
Life has a way of making us feel stuck sometimes. Things don't go as planned. Relationships, Loss, Disappointment, Anxiety, Fear, Patterns and Habits keep us from moving forward. Small steps can make a big impact. We can work together to facilitate your path forward. Take the first step and book your appointment on the website today.
Life has a way of making us feel stuck sometimes. Things don't go as planned. Relationships, Loss, Disappointment, Anxiety, Fear, Patterns and Habits keep us from moving forward. Small steps can make a big impact. We can work together to facilitate your path forward. Take the first step and book your appointment on the website today.
![Photo of Raina Burlak, LMHC, NCC, CCTP, CTMH, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54f67b6e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Raina Burlak
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, CCTP, CTMH
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548 (Online Only)
I can help you use your strengths to meet your goals. Let's engage in a you-focused, judgement free, empathetic, skillful and goal directed conversation. Let's work through the dark emotions together. With support it can once again feel safe to rekindle hope and reprocess the felt memories that stick. We will focus on your goals and view you as capable with strengths. Hope and healing is possible.
I can help you use your strengths to meet your goals. Let's engage in a you-focused, judgement free, empathetic, skillful and goal directed conversation. Let's work through the dark emotions together. With support it can once again feel safe to rekindle hope and reprocess the felt memories that stick. We will focus on your goals and view you as capable with strengths. Hope and healing is possible.
![Photo of Kendra Jowers Bozard, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b0f469c2-d6ee-4b30-b794-9f37b598e6fc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kendra Jowers Bozard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547 (Online Only)
Hey y’all, welcome to my profile! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and serve all adults dealing with anxiety, depression, or any other mental health needs. I have a soft spot for helping fellow moms who are experiencing burnout and a loss of identity (I'm a mom, too, so I completely understand!). My goal is to provide you with a safe, non-judgmental space filled with empathy and understanding. Together, we can work on challenging your self-defeating thoughts and focus on self-care, so you can build resilience and healthy coping skills to live your best life.
Hey y’all, welcome to my profile! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and serve all adults dealing with anxiety, depression, or any other mental health needs. I have a soft spot for helping fellow moms who are experiencing burnout and a loss of identity (I'm a mom, too, so I completely understand!). My goal is to provide you with a safe, non-judgmental space filled with empathy and understanding. Together, we can work on challenging your self-defeating thoughts and focus on self-care, so you can build resilience and healthy coping skills to live your best life.
![Photo of Amber Gentry, MS, LPC Intern](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/83adde36-97f6-468b-91fe-eb397afddc2c/3/320x400.jpeg)
As a registered mental health counselor intern, I passionately advocate for self-care and mental wellness while working collaboratively with clients to empower and build resilience and achieve mental health goals in a safe, empathetic space for healing and self-empowerment. I am prepared to assist individuals in coping and managing emotional, behavioral, and psychological challenges. What is an LPC Intern? Click on the above acronym LPC to find out more.
As a registered mental health counselor intern, I passionately advocate for self-care and mental wellness while working collaboratively with clients to empower and build resilience and achieve mental health goals in a safe, empathetic space for healing and self-empowerment. I am prepared to assist individuals in coping and managing emotional, behavioral, and psychological challenges. What is an LPC Intern? Click on the above acronym LPC to find out more.
![Photo of Christina Patterson, MS, RMHCI, EMDR, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a6b616bf-3a50-40c8-bbc0-b83b5b80bfe7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christina Patterson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, RMHCI, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547
Please know you do not have to go through this alone. In my role as a mental health counselor, my approach to building trust is rooted in authenticity, empathy, and collaborative engagement. I recognize that the therapeutic relationship is a dynamic and evolving partnership, and my commitment to fostering trust is paramount. I strive to create a space where clients feel seen, heard, and understood. Ultimately, my goal is to build trusting alliance that empowers clients to explore their challenges, develop resilience, and work towards positive change.
Please know you do not have to go through this alone. In my role as a mental health counselor, my approach to building trust is rooted in authenticity, empathy, and collaborative engagement. I recognize that the therapeutic relationship is a dynamic and evolving partnership, and my commitment to fostering trust is paramount. I strive to create a space where clients feel seen, heard, and understood. Ultimately, my goal is to build trusting alliance that empowers clients to explore their challenges, develop resilience, and work towards positive change.
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![Photo of Kim Marie Losquadro, MS, MA, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54d738cf-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kim Marie Losquadro
Counselor, MS, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547
Congratulations on taking the first step to make positive changes in your life and your relationships. Whether you or your relationship is in crisis, or if you seek change, there is hope. I am committed to helping individuals and couples improve their lives and their most valued relationships. I am passionate about helping individuals overcome personal challenges and tailor my counseling approach to match the needs of my clients thereby empowering you to create the life you have always dreamed of. My work with couples utilizes the Gottman Method Couples Therapy which can enhance your relationships in just 3 sessions.
Congratulations on taking the first step to make positive changes in your life and your relationships. Whether you or your relationship is in crisis, or if you seek change, there is hope. I am committed to helping individuals and couples improve their lives and their most valued relationships. I am passionate about helping individuals overcome personal challenges and tailor my counseling approach to match the needs of my clients thereby empowering you to create the life you have always dreamed of. My work with couples utilizes the Gottman Method Couples Therapy which can enhance your relationships in just 3 sessions.
![Photo of Hillary Marshall, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9552301f-0be0-4b53-b3b4-e53f370e7d2d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hillary has her master’s degree in Degree in Mental Health Counseling from Troy University. She is passionate about helping others and has experience working with adults, children, and couples. Originally from Colorado, she has lived and worked in a variety of places including New York, Oklahoma, and New Mexico. She has a background in music and enjoys theater and opera. Approaching each client with compassion and empathy, she is dedicated to assisting others to become the best versions of themselves.
Hillary has her master’s degree in Degree in Mental Health Counseling from Troy University. She is passionate about helping others and has experience working with adults, children, and couples. Originally from Colorado, she has lived and worked in a variety of places including New York, Oklahoma, and New Mexico. She has a background in music and enjoys theater and opera. Approaching each client with compassion and empathy, she is dedicated to assisting others to become the best versions of themselves.
![Photo of Deborah Trent, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bb856cac-3e4b-4494-842d-538a5a248145/1/320x400.png)
Welcome! I am Deborah (Debbie) Trent, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a qualified supervisor of mental health counselors with over 20 years of experience. I work with adults and my primary counseling approach is client-centered as I help guide individuals toward their own wisdom and innate mental health. Over the years I have worked with clients with many different issues and concerns. Depression, anxiety, panic or anxiety attacks, anger issues and substance abuse are some of the most common issues that I have helped clients overcome.
Welcome! I am Deborah (Debbie) Trent, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a qualified supervisor of mental health counselors with over 20 years of experience. I work with adults and my primary counseling approach is client-centered as I help guide individuals toward their own wisdom and innate mental health. Over the years I have worked with clients with many different issues and concerns. Depression, anxiety, panic or anxiety attacks, anger issues and substance abuse are some of the most common issues that I have helped clients overcome.
![Photo of Regina Bright, MS, LMHC, BCST, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/97a0a4c1-c36f-430d-be12-c044447dbee2/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Board Certified Sex Therapist, and Clinical Supervisor who provides individual and couples therapy. I am certified in kink, fetishes, and polyamory. I am also certified in Transgender Care.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Board Certified Sex Therapist, and Clinical Supervisor who provides individual and couples therapy. I am certified in kink, fetishes, and polyamory. I am also certified in Transgender Care.
![Photo of Shevon Peet, MS, LMHC, BCPCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3231866e-ee9c-4c29-ba02-b276ecb5d6a4/3/320x400.jpeg)
I want you to know that there is light at the end of the tunnel and that light is NOT an oncoming bus (smile). You have a purpose in this life, and you are NOT the sum total of your mistakes. As we walk through your trauma and disappointments, we will get off the detour road and find the road you were destined to walk on.
I want you to know that there is light at the end of the tunnel and that light is NOT an oncoming bus (smile). You have a purpose in this life, and you are NOT the sum total of your mistakes. As we walk through your trauma and disappointments, we will get off the detour road and find the road you were destined to walk on.
![Photo of Mya Brown, MS, RMHCI](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f385e50f-d623-4863-83e1-a7b4b26630f3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mya Brown
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MS, RMHCI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547
My ideal client is committed to navigating significant life transitions, healing from past traumas, and strengthening relationships. Couples may seek help with communication breakdowns, trust issues, or parenting conflicts, aiming to enhance their connection and family harmony. Young adults often need support with identity formation, career choices, and managing stress. Veterans may seek to process military experiences and reintegrate into civilian life. My clients are open to self-reflection and motivated to make positive changes, valuing the guidance and support of therapy.
My ideal client is committed to navigating significant life transitions, healing from past traumas, and strengthening relationships. Couples may seek help with communication breakdowns, trust issues, or parenting conflicts, aiming to enhance their connection and family harmony. Young adults often need support with identity formation, career choices, and managing stress. Veterans may seek to process military experiences and reintegrate into civilian life. My clients are open to self-reflection and motivated to make positive changes, valuing the guidance and support of therapy.
![Photo of Pamela Lee Downey - Emerald Coast NeuroFeedback , MS, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b13dd0c-1f3e-4d58-8ac7-a58659a138c3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Emerald Coast NeuroFeedback
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547
Since 2013, I’ve worked with a range of mental health concerns in my private practice. In 2015 I learned of NeruoTherapy and utilized it as part of a wellness based inpatient program. And in 2017 I introduced it to my private practice. After seeing remarkable improvements with so many client concerns, (Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, TBI, Stroke Recovery, ADHD, Sleep Issues, Memory, Focus, Performance Enhancement, and more), Emerald Coast NeruoFeedback was founded in 2021, making it available outside of my counseling practice. At ECNF we combine cutting edge software with years of clinical experience from assessment to implementation.
Since 2013, I’ve worked with a range of mental health concerns in my private practice. In 2015 I learned of NeruoTherapy and utilized it as part of a wellness based inpatient program. And in 2017 I introduced it to my private practice. After seeing remarkable improvements with so many client concerns, (Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, TBI, Stroke Recovery, ADHD, Sleep Issues, Memory, Focus, Performance Enhancement, and more), Emerald Coast NeruoFeedback was founded in 2021, making it available outside of my counseling practice. At ECNF we combine cutting edge software with years of clinical experience from assessment to implementation.
![Photo of Carlise C. McLaughlin, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/558de1f2-55f6-49b7-b75d-17fde4dde91f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Carlise C. McLaughlin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I provide Telehealth services via video and phone for people who live in the state of Florida. Active duty military, veterans, and their families are my passion. As a Navy veteran and military spouse, I offer a unique perspective on military issues including pre/post-deployment, marriage, trauma, secondary trauma, and family issues. Other issues I enjoy helping with include surviving infidelity, conscious uncoupling, LGBTQ relationships, caregiver fatigue, anxiety, depression, and personality disorders such as Borderline Personality Disorder.
I provide Telehealth services via video and phone for people who live in the state of Florida. Active duty military, veterans, and their families are my passion. As a Navy veteran and military spouse, I offer a unique perspective on military issues including pre/post-deployment, marriage, trauma, secondary trauma, and family issues. Other issues I enjoy helping with include surviving infidelity, conscious uncoupling, LGBTQ relationships, caregiver fatigue, anxiety, depression, and personality disorders such as Borderline Personality Disorder.
![Photo of Melanie Cassulo, LMHC, PA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d5133e9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Is life unpredictable and chaotic? Are you depressed or anxious, lost interest in doing things that have been important to you, sometimes feel like you've lost yourself? Do you sometimes use alcohol or other substances so you don't feel? Have you experienced trauma or injuries that you struggle to manage? Let's work together to change course whether you are struggling with addiction, trauma, loss, or the stress of everyday life.
Is life unpredictable and chaotic? Are you depressed or anxious, lost interest in doing things that have been important to you, sometimes feel like you've lost yourself? Do you sometimes use alcohol or other substances so you don't feel? Have you experienced trauma or injuries that you struggle to manage? Let's work together to change course whether you are struggling with addiction, trauma, loss, or the stress of everyday life.
See more therapy options for Fort Walton Beach
Nearby Substance Use Therapists Searches for Fort Walton Beach
- Baker
- Crestview
- Destin
- Gulf Breeze
- Mary Esther
- Milton
- Miramar Beach
- Navarre
- Niceville
- Pensacola Beach
- Santa Rosa Beach
- Shalimar
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.