Substance Use Therapists in Jacksonville N A, FL

Photo of Ronny Wayne Stephens, LPC, LMHC, LCAS,  MAC, PhD
Ronny Wayne Stephens
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LPC, LMHC, LCAS, MAC, PhD
Verified Verified
Jacksonville N A, FL 32212
Accepting New Clients"...... Connected Counseling Community Center PLLC. is more than just a professional and licensed private practice—it's a beacon of hope and healing. With over 40 years of dedicated service to military families, veterans, and diverse communities, I have built a reputation for excellence and rapid recovery. My extensive experience includes establishing counseling centers in both military and civilian settings and serving as an expert witness in civilian and military courts.Even the strongest among us can face life’s most challenging problems.
Accepting New Clients"...... Connected Counseling Community Center PLLC. is more than just a professional and licensed private practice—it's a beacon of hope and healing. With over 40 years of dedicated service to military families, veterans, and diverse communities, I have built a reputation for excellence and rapid recovery. My extensive experience includes establishing counseling centers in both military and civilian settings and serving as an expert witness in civilian and military courts.Even the strongest among us can face life’s most challenging problems.
(910) 591-2957 View (910) 591-2957

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Michelle K Galloway, LSCW, NCRC1, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle K Galloway
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCW, NCRC1
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32256  (Online Only)
Getting to the root of these stressors that may be causing problems like anxiety, depression, substance use and trauma are key to finding successful symptom relief.
Are you in a funk? There has been a lot going on recently that has caused uncertainty and worry for many. Personal issues, family discord, economic concerns, political uncertainties, the threat of natural disasters and national concerns has left many with feelings of unease that they can’t seem to shake. It can be unsettling and traumatic. It is difficult to get out of this space on your own. You may be numbing with alcohol, drugs, food or other unhealthy ways of coping. Feeling this way may be holding you back personally or professionally. It would help to able to talk to someone who can be neutral and non-judgmental.
Getting to the root of these stressors that may be causing problems like anxiety, depression, substance use and trauma are key to finding successful symptom relief.
Are you in a funk? There has been a lot going on recently that has caused uncertainty and worry for many. Personal issues, family discord, economic concerns, political uncertainties, the threat of natural disasters and national concerns has left many with feelings of unease that they can’t seem to shake. It can be unsettling and traumatic. It is difficult to get out of this space on your own. You may be numbing with alcohol, drugs, food or other unhealthy ways of coping. Feeling this way may be holding you back personally or professionally. It would help to able to talk to someone who can be neutral and non-judgmental.
(561) 559-5247 View (561) 559-5247
Photo of Kim Pollock - Quality Life Center, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Quality Life Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32216
Psychiatric and counseling services work closely together to provide integrated and comprehensive mental health and substance use disorder services.
Quality Life Center is an outpatient behavioral health clinic that provides individual, couples, and family counseling, psychiatric and medication management. Our licensed therapists and registered interns provide counseling both face to face and teletherapy through video conferencing. Our psychiatrist and Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner provides psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Our office is in Duval county with appointments available Monday through Friday. Quality Life Center also offers case management services for children and adults as well as a Psychosocial Rehabilitation Program for adults 18+.
Psychiatric and counseling services work closely together to provide integrated and comprehensive mental health and substance use disorder services.
Quality Life Center is an outpatient behavioral health clinic that provides individual, couples, and family counseling, psychiatric and medication management. Our licensed therapists and registered interns provide counseling both face to face and teletherapy through video conferencing. Our psychiatrist and Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner provides psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Our office is in Duval county with appointments available Monday through Friday. Quality Life Center also offers case management services for children and adults as well as a Psychosocial Rehabilitation Program for adults 18+.
(904) 685-8515 View (904) 685-8515
Photo of Annie McGuire (Kindland), MA, LMHC, DMCP, Counselor
Annie McGuire (Kindland)
Counselor, MA, LMHC, DMCP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32256
I work with individuals who experience mental health and/or substance use issues, anyone with a history of trauma (including complex or developmental trauma), those who identify within the LGBT+ community seeking counseling, and individuals with gender related concerns or seeking services for hormone replacement therapy and/or gender affirming surgery.
What we experience throughout our lifetime impacts how we form relationships, process information, or show up in the world. Expectations, environment, or your inner voice not aligning with what you know or have been told, can influence how you view yourself or others. Do your experiences not align with how you feel? If you struggle with understanding who you are, how you identify, improving your relationships, or even your relationship with your own feelings/behaviors, I can help. I work to assist clients in finding their true, authentic self. My job is to help clients find their own needs and how to obtain them for themselves.
I work with individuals who experience mental health and/or substance use issues, anyone with a history of trauma (including complex or developmental trauma), those who identify within the LGBT+ community seeking counseling, and individuals with gender related concerns or seeking services for hormone replacement therapy and/or gender affirming surgery.
What we experience throughout our lifetime impacts how we form relationships, process information, or show up in the world. Expectations, environment, or your inner voice not aligning with what you know or have been told, can influence how you view yourself or others. Do your experiences not align with how you feel? If you struggle with understanding who you are, how you identify, improving your relationships, or even your relationship with your own feelings/behaviors, I can help. I work to assist clients in finding their true, authentic self. My job is to help clients find their own needs and how to obtain them for themselves.
(904) 474-3230 View (904) 474-3230
Photo of Rebecca Benton, LMHC, Counselor
Rebecca Benton
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32203  (Online Only)
Are you suffering in silence from depression, anxiety, substance use, self-doubt, difficult relationships, negative thinking, feeling stuck or inadequate? Is it affecting your quality of life or preventing you from reaching your true potential? Learn how to build the mental resilience necessary to overcome challenges and setbacks! I have over 20 yrs of mental health experience, beginning on active duty with the Navy, with experience in both group and individual counseling, working with a wide variety of age ranges and population groups to include college institutions, military institutions, and the criminal justice system.
Are you suffering in silence from depression, anxiety, substance use, self-doubt, difficult relationships, negative thinking, feeling stuck or inadequate? Is it affecting your quality of life or preventing you from reaching your true potential? Learn how to build the mental resilience necessary to overcome challenges and setbacks! I have over 20 yrs of mental health experience, beginning on active duty with the Navy, with experience in both group and individual counseling, working with a wide variety of age ranges and population groups to include college institutions, military institutions, and the criminal justice system.
(407) 568-0001 View (407) 568-0001
Photo of DaRon Stephens, LPC, LCADC, LMHC, MCAP, LMT, Licensed Professional Counselor
DaRon Stephens
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC, LMHC, MCAP, LMT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32202
Hello potential client! My name is DaRon Stephens and I am the owner & private therapist of Chat N Relax Counseling & Consultation, LLC. I am New Jersey based and licensed in NJ & FL. I have worked in the mental health field since 2006. I specialized in mood disorders, anxiety, crisis intervention, anger management, and relationship building. I also specialize in substance use disorder counseling. My substance use field experience dates back to 2011. I am an open minded transparent therapist and find interest in seeing the world from your point of view. I am here to help you. Any questions? Please feel free to contact me.
Hello potential client! My name is DaRon Stephens and I am the owner & private therapist of Chat N Relax Counseling & Consultation, LLC. I am New Jersey based and licensed in NJ & FL. I have worked in the mental health field since 2006. I specialized in mood disorders, anxiety, crisis intervention, anger management, and relationship building. I also specialize in substance use disorder counseling. My substance use field experience dates back to 2011. I am an open minded transparent therapist and find interest in seeing the world from your point of view. I am here to help you. Any questions? Please feel free to contact me.
(201) 419-6648 View (201) 419-6648
Photo of Tiffany Moore, LMHC, Counselor
Tiffany Moore
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Fruit Cove, FL 32259
The purpose of therapy is to take what you have learned and apply it outside. It is not always easy to make changes, and change can be scary, but once you put your words into action, the change can be beautiful. I have worked with people who struggle with substance use issues, depression, anxiety, and families. I have a passion for working with people in the BiPOC community. I want my clients to believe in themselves and what they can accomplish without needing external validation. My goal is for you to feel confident in your decision-making to process your needs/issues without relying on others.
The purpose of therapy is to take what you have learned and apply it outside. It is not always easy to make changes, and change can be scary, but once you put your words into action, the change can be beautiful. I have worked with people who struggle with substance use issues, depression, anxiety, and families. I have a passion for working with people in the BiPOC community. I want my clients to believe in themselves and what they can accomplish without needing external validation. My goal is for you to feel confident in your decision-making to process your needs/issues without relying on others.
(904) 364-1958 View (904) 364-1958
Photo of Burton David Burt - Recovery Awareness LLC, LMHC, MCAP, SAP, SAE, Counselor
Recovery Awareness LLC
Counselor, LMHC, MCAP, SAP, SAE
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32207
An ideal client recognizes their substance use has become problematic and is motivated to make positive changes. They may face physical, emotional, and interpersonal issues and feel overwhelmed. Services they may require include diagnosis, counseling, group therapy, and referrals for additional resources. Their goals may include abstinence, physical/mental health improvement, relationship repair, and healthy coping strategies. Motivations for seeking help vary, but clients must have a desire for a fulfilling life free from negative consequences of substance abuse. Support and empowerment are essential in the journey to recovery.
An ideal client recognizes their substance use has become problematic and is motivated to make positive changes. They may face physical, emotional, and interpersonal issues and feel overwhelmed. Services they may require include diagnosis, counseling, group therapy, and referrals for additional resources. Their goals may include abstinence, physical/mental health improvement, relationship repair, and healthy coping strategies. Motivations for seeking help vary, but clients must have a desire for a fulfilling life free from negative consequences of substance abuse. Support and empowerment are essential in the journey to recovery.
(352) 415-2472 View (352) 415-2472
Photo of Dan Renaud, ICADC, CAP, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Dan Renaud
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, ICADC, CAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32204
Mr Renaud considered a subject matter expert in the areas of adolescent substance use disorder and it impacts on the family. He consults with and provides expert testimony to the Florida Juvenile justice Association, the circuit four advisory council for juvenile justice, Adolescent drug court, Duval County teen court, juvenile court, Local news affiliates, as well as northeast Florida System of Care. In 2018 Mr Renaud was asked to join The Florida Behavioral Health Association as a consultant to the adolescent behavioral health division.
Mr Renaud considered a subject matter expert in the areas of adolescent substance use disorder and it impacts on the family. He consults with and provides expert testimony to the Florida Juvenile justice Association, the circuit four advisory council for juvenile justice, Adolescent drug court, Duval County teen court, juvenile court, Local news affiliates, as well as northeast Florida System of Care. In 2018 Mr Renaud was asked to join The Florida Behavioral Health Association as a consultant to the adolescent behavioral health division.
(904) 495-7553 View (904) 495-7553
Photo of Lisa Hubbard, LMHC, PhD, MA, Counselor
Lisa Hubbard
Counselor, LMHC, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
Fruit Cove, FL 32259
Whether your needs involve coping with depression, anxiety, or trauma; childhood issues, work-related issues, relationship issues, or family issues; or you or someone you are/have been involved with is/has struggled with a substance use issue, I am willing to help you discover your personal goals, strategize a plan for meeting those goals, and to guide you along the path you are cutting. I enjoy working with individuals who have a strong desire to identify complex areas or situations in their own lives that they would like to re-evaluate.
Whether your needs involve coping with depression, anxiety, or trauma; childhood issues, work-related issues, relationship issues, or family issues; or you or someone you are/have been involved with is/has struggled with a substance use issue, I am willing to help you discover your personal goals, strategize a plan for meeting those goals, and to guide you along the path you are cutting. I enjoy working with individuals who have a strong desire to identify complex areas or situations in their own lives that they would like to re-evaluate.
(904) 774-2134 View (904) 774-2134
Photo of Paulina Bollat, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Paulina Bollat
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32209  (Online Only)
I am a licensed social worker in Florida and I work with individuals who are experiencing substance use disorders, stress, psychotic disorders, depression, anxiety and/or other mood disorders.
Are you looking for ways to improve your mental health and overall wellbeing? Are you interested in finding a therapist who will work with you to identify issues, understand them, and take action to help you live a better life?
I am a licensed social worker in Florida and I work with individuals who are experiencing substance use disorders, stress, psychotic disorders, depression, anxiety and/or other mood disorders.
Are you looking for ways to improve your mental health and overall wellbeing? Are you interested in finding a therapist who will work with you to identify issues, understand them, and take action to help you live a better life?
(786) 574-5705 View (786) 574-5705
Photo of Cassandra J Hoffer, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cassandra J Hoffer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32267  (Online Only)
My name is Cassandra Hoffer. I am a wellness oriented, solution focused, Marriage and Family Therapist licensed in Florida. I have recently changed my practice from in person, to online through Headway. I am happy to have the privilege of working with individuals, couples, and families facing personal or relationship challenges. Over time, I have also gained considerable experience helping clients find their own most effective ways to meet the day to day challenges of substance use and recovery from addictive behaviors.
My name is Cassandra Hoffer. I am a wellness oriented, solution focused, Marriage and Family Therapist licensed in Florida. I have recently changed my practice from in person, to online through Headway. I am happy to have the privilege of working with individuals, couples, and families facing personal or relationship challenges. Over time, I have also gained considerable experience helping clients find their own most effective ways to meet the day to day challenges of substance use and recovery from addictive behaviors.
(904) 853-3362 View (904) 853-3362
Photo of Carol V Grande, LMHC, ICADC, CAP, CTP, CEAP, Counselor
Carol V Grande
Counselor, LMHC, ICADC, CAP, CTP, CEAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32217
In addition to clinical private practice for mental health and substance use - I have provided case management, employee assistance, and crisis response services for psychiatric and substance abuse treatment, corporate, government, transportation, and educational institutions.
Congratulations. By seeking a counselor, you have already made the first and most important decision. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, stress, relationships, recovery, grief, codependency and other concerns listed in my profile, give me a call. I have many years of success helping individuals and couples learn to effectively cope, heal and grow. I am committed to a positive, holistic, and collaborative approach to therapy, focused on building resilience. I encourage a sense of curiosity about self without shame, and incorporate skill building (communication/conflict resolution/mindfulness) into all treatment plans.
In addition to clinical private practice for mental health and substance use - I have provided case management, employee assistance, and crisis response services for psychiatric and substance abuse treatment, corporate, government, transportation, and educational institutions.
Congratulations. By seeking a counselor, you have already made the first and most important decision. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, stress, relationships, recovery, grief, codependency and other concerns listed in my profile, give me a call. I have many years of success helping individuals and couples learn to effectively cope, heal and grow. I am committed to a positive, holistic, and collaborative approach to therapy, focused on building resilience. I encourage a sense of curiosity about self without shame, and incorporate skill building (communication/conflict resolution/mindfulness) into all treatment plans.
(904) 601-0795 View (904) 601-0795
Photo of Jonathan Valletta, MA, LMHC, NCC, MCAP, Counselor
Jonathan Valletta
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC, MCAP
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32207
Mr. Jonathan Valletta is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and Masters Level Certified Addiction Professional (MCAP). He offers counseling treatment for adults and adolescents in areas such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, substance use, adjustment disorders, relationship issues, trauma, and personality traits. He applies a mindfulness approach with clients to help develop coping skills to more effectively manage stress, anger and difficulties regulating emotions.
Mr. Jonathan Valletta is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and Masters Level Certified Addiction Professional (MCAP). He offers counseling treatment for adults and adolescents in areas such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, substance use, adjustment disorders, relationship issues, trauma, and personality traits. He applies a mindfulness approach with clients to help develop coping skills to more effectively manage stress, anger and difficulties regulating emotions.
(904) 720-4526 View (904) 720-4526
Photo of Shani Hoffman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shani Hoffman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32207
Welcome! I am Shani Hoffman, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I reside in Jacksonville, Florida, and provide telehealth counseling statewide. I invite you into an open and safe space to take the next steps in your journey. My primary focus is working with adults and substance use disorder/addiction, depression, and anxiety. If this is your first time considering therapy or telehealth( or not), my goal is to start Client/person-centered That is wherever you are.
Welcome! I am Shani Hoffman, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I reside in Jacksonville, Florida, and provide telehealth counseling statewide. I invite you into an open and safe space to take the next steps in your journey. My primary focus is working with adults and substance use disorder/addiction, depression, and anxiety. If this is your first time considering therapy or telehealth( or not), my goal is to start Client/person-centered That is wherever you are.
(904) 656-6902 View (904) 656-6902
Photo of Sharon Westbrook, LCSW, Counselor
Sharon Westbrook
Counselor, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32202
My specialties include addiction, substance use disorders, mood disorders, struggles with self-esteem, establishing healthy relationships, managing medical difficulties, relapse prevention, anxiety, and depression.
Hi. I’m Sharon Westbrook, LCSW. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 12 years of experience in helping others work through the struggles of life. I like to think of myself as a life-untangler who can help you put the puzzle pieces back together and live a more satisfying life. I am passionate about providing a comfortable environment where you can be heard, feel safe, and stay motivated to conquer any obstacle that stands in your way of success. I approach therapy with a holistic approach considering all aspects of life when discussing remedies.
My specialties include addiction, substance use disorders, mood disorders, struggles with self-esteem, establishing healthy relationships, managing medical difficulties, relapse prevention, anxiety, and depression.
Hi. I’m Sharon Westbrook, LCSW. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 12 years of experience in helping others work through the struggles of life. I like to think of myself as a life-untangler who can help you put the puzzle pieces back together and live a more satisfying life. I am passionate about providing a comfortable environment where you can be heard, feel safe, and stay motivated to conquer any obstacle that stands in your way of success. I approach therapy with a holistic approach considering all aspects of life when discussing remedies.
(904) 395-4707 View (904) 395-4707
Photo of Dylan Wallace, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dylan Wallace
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32099
I specialize in helping cope with the complexities of substance use, other types of addictions, marital conflicts, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, grief, personality disorders, codependency, attachment, and family conflict.
I believe that each person has the potential to live the life they truly want and that lasting change is possible. As a strengths-based therapist, I help a client find their strengths are built on and utilized in therapy to help the client work through the difficulties they are experiencing. I create a space where you can tell me anything without fear of judgment or me telling you how you should live life. Therapy is an interactive process and it shouldn’t look the same for each person. I love helping people build their confidence and becoming more assertive. I want to help you build the skills to live your life to the fullest!
I specialize in helping cope with the complexities of substance use, other types of addictions, marital conflicts, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, grief, personality disorders, codependency, attachment, and family conflict.
I believe that each person has the potential to live the life they truly want and that lasting change is possible. As a strengths-based therapist, I help a client find their strengths are built on and utilized in therapy to help the client work through the difficulties they are experiencing. I create a space where you can tell me anything without fear of judgment or me telling you how you should live life. Therapy is an interactive process and it shouldn’t look the same for each person. I love helping people build their confidence and becoming more assertive. I want to help you build the skills to live your life to the fullest!
(321) 405-1722 View (321) 405-1722
Photo of Kate Pompei, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kate Pompei
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32216  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Kate. I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist and have been working in the counseling field since 2010. I enjoy working with couples, individuals, and families. My therapeutic focuses are Depression, Trauma, PTSD, Relationship Issues, Self Esteem, and Substance Use. I use a combination of Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Couples Therapy, Relational, Structural Family Therapy, and Grief Therapy. I like the therapeutic goals to be determined collaboratively with myself and the client. I believe in creating a space where we can have difficult conversations and work on resolving issues.
Hi, I'm Kate. I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist and have been working in the counseling field since 2010. I enjoy working with couples, individuals, and families. My therapeutic focuses are Depression, Trauma, PTSD, Relationship Issues, Self Esteem, and Substance Use. I use a combination of Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Couples Therapy, Relational, Structural Family Therapy, and Grief Therapy. I like the therapeutic goals to be determined collaboratively with myself and the client. I believe in creating a space where we can have difficult conversations and work on resolving issues.
(904) 593-4910 View (904) 593-4910
Photo of Craig Lampkin, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Craig Lampkin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32099  (Online Only)
I invite you to take a personal therapeutic journey to an increase in mental health, developmental disabilities, and/or substance use health and well-being, for the mind, body, and soul.
I became a Marriage and Family Therapist because I enjoy processing with individuals and listening to personal journeys to find a resolution. I was a High School performance art major and find this skill set benefical in providing supports through visual cues using various therapeutic approaches and modalities. I specialize in working with children and families in child welfare. I enjoy working with young children and teens as these are challenging developmental years, trauma and distress from systemic and familial patterns of behaviors, coupled with low parenting, coping, decision-making and problem-solving skills.
I invite you to take a personal therapeutic journey to an increase in mental health, developmental disabilities, and/or substance use health and well-being, for the mind, body, and soul.
I became a Marriage and Family Therapist because I enjoy processing with individuals and listening to personal journeys to find a resolution. I was a High School performance art major and find this skill set benefical in providing supports through visual cues using various therapeutic approaches and modalities. I specialize in working with children and families in child welfare. I enjoy working with young children and teens as these are challenging developmental years, trauma and distress from systemic and familial patterns of behaviors, coupled with low parenting, coping, decision-making and problem-solving skills.
(850) 900-2218 View (850) 900-2218
Photo of Kelley Holladay, PhD, LMHC, LPCC, MAC, CCC, Counselor
Kelley Holladay
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, LPCC, MAC, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32223
Waitlist for new clients
With more than 10 years of experience, I have learned severe emotional trauma occurs if trauma is long-standing, repeated, or targets an individual’s self-worth. Self-compassion is the ability to forgo self-blame in order to forgive oneself for imperfections, as well as natural and honest reactions to traumatic events. Self-compassion has been shown to decrease mental health symptoms (e.g., anxiety, depression, shame) related to trauma, and increase positive psychological traits (happiness, joy). I utilize this approach alongside existential questions related to substance use, career choice, family issues, self-worth, and trauma.
With more than 10 years of experience, I have learned severe emotional trauma occurs if trauma is long-standing, repeated, or targets an individual’s self-worth. Self-compassion is the ability to forgo self-blame in order to forgive oneself for imperfections, as well as natural and honest reactions to traumatic events. Self-compassion has been shown to decrease mental health symptoms (e.g., anxiety, depression, shame) related to trauma, and increase positive psychological traits (happiness, joy). I utilize this approach alongside existential questions related to substance use, career choice, family issues, self-worth, and trauma.
(904) 395-4577 View (904) 395-4577
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.