Substance Use Therapists in Jacksonville, FL

Photo of Tiffany Moore, LMHC, Counselor
Tiffany Moore
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32246
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 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
Jacksonville, FL 32246
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 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 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 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 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 Samantha S Schams, PhD, LP, CSAC, Psychologist
Samantha S Schams
Psychologist, PhD, LP, CSAC
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32210  (Online Only)
Hello! I think the therapeutic process is the perfect place to understand yourself better and overcome the obstacles you experience to living the life you want to live. I've seen this magic happen so many times with so many different people and backgrounds. I primarily work with adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, substance use, relationship distress, social concerns, and life transitions. I am able to provide telehealth therapy in most states. For a full list, see psypact.org/mpage/psypactmap
Hello! I think the therapeutic process is the perfect place to understand yourself better and overcome the obstacles you experience to living the life you want to live. I've seen this magic happen so many times with so many different people and backgrounds. I primarily work with adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, substance use, relationship distress, social concerns, and life transitions. I am able to provide telehealth therapy in most states. For a full list, see psypact.org/mpage/psypactmap
(262) 235-7271 View (262) 235-7271
Photo of Taylor Neilly, MSW, RCSWI
Taylor Neilly
Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern, MSW, RCSWI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32223
I work with individuals and couples seeking positive changes and healing in their life. This includes addressing anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, and life transitions. I help clients who are overwhelmed by distressing emotions, feeling trapped, and experiencing conflicts internally and in relationships. I support, guide, and educate clients, and help them find relief, joy, and purpose in living. Together, we work to build awareness and emotional resilience. Clients develop tangible coping skills while assessing their values and learning to care for what is most important, with renewed interest and appreciation.
I work with individuals and couples seeking positive changes and healing in their life. This includes addressing anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, and life transitions. I help clients who are overwhelmed by distressing emotions, feeling trapped, and experiencing conflicts internally and in relationships. I support, guide, and educate clients, and help them find relief, joy, and purpose in living. Together, we work to build awareness and emotional resilience. Clients develop tangible coping skills while assessing their values and learning to care for what is most important, with renewed interest and appreciation.
(904) 478-0430 View (904) 478-0430
Photo of Vivien Morrison, LMHC, Counselor
Vivien Morrison
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32210
I have over 8 years of experience in the mental health field including helping clients who struggle with low self-esteem, identity issues, cultural concerns, depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use, criminal history, life changes, relationship, and adjustment issues.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor working in the Orlando area. My approach is supportive, compassionate, and empathetic. I believe in clients finding their own answers by utilizing positive psychology, cognitive-behavioral, and solution-focused techniques.
I have over 8 years of experience in the mental health field including helping clients who struggle with low self-esteem, identity issues, cultural concerns, depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use, criminal history, life changes, relationship, and adjustment issues.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor working in the Orlando area. My approach is supportive, compassionate, and empathetic. I believe in clients finding their own answers by utilizing positive psychology, cognitive-behavioral, and solution-focused techniques.
(904) 740-4573 View (904) 740-4573
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 Victoria Jacobs, LMHC, Counselor
Victoria Jacobs
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32211  (Online Only)
I predominately focus on anxiety, depression, adjustment to life transitions, stress management, college struggles, substance use, and relationships.
I am a dedicated mental health therapist with a passion for helping individuals navigate life's challenges with resilience and confidence. I specialize in working with adults over the age of 18 and college students. I believe that every person possesses the inner strength to overcome obstacles and achieve their full potential, and I am committed to being your guide on this transformative journey. I believe in the power of collaboration and empathy. I work to create a warm, non-judgmental space where clients can openly explore their thoughts, feelings, and concerns.
I predominately focus on anxiety, depression, adjustment to life transitions, stress management, college struggles, substance use, and relationships.
I am a dedicated mental health therapist with a passion for helping individuals navigate life's challenges with resilience and confidence. I specialize in working with adults over the age of 18 and college students. I believe that every person possesses the inner strength to overcome obstacles and achieve their full potential, and I am committed to being your guide on this transformative journey. I believe in the power of collaboration and empathy. I work to create a warm, non-judgmental space where clients can openly explore their thoughts, feelings, and concerns.
(904) 615-8985 View (904) 615-8985
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 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 Terry Kirton, MS
Terry Kirton
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MS
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32246
I have worked in a variety of settings including general outpatient mental health for adolescents and adults, and dual diagnosis (mental disorder and a substance use disorder) intensive outpatient and partial hospitalization programs.
At some time or other, many of us may experience a disconnect from ourselves, parts of ourselves and/or what is most important to us. This can be a result of trauma, circumstance, or unmet needs. A disconnect from self can manifest in unwanted feelings and symptoms including anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, relationship issues, and substance abuse. The reconnection process can elicit growing pains as we explore the root cause, identify and overcome barriers, and explore new ways of living in alignment with ourselves. I am passionate about creating a warm, safe space for clients to show up as themselves and do this work.
I have worked in a variety of settings including general outpatient mental health for adolescents and adults, and dual diagnosis (mental disorder and a substance use disorder) intensive outpatient and partial hospitalization programs.
At some time or other, many of us may experience a disconnect from ourselves, parts of ourselves and/or what is most important to us. This can be a result of trauma, circumstance, or unmet needs. A disconnect from self can manifest in unwanted feelings and symptoms including anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, relationship issues, and substance abuse. The reconnection process can elicit growing pains as we explore the root cause, identify and overcome barriers, and explore new ways of living in alignment with ourselves. I am passionate about creating a warm, safe space for clients to show up as themselves and do this work.
(904) 822-0961 View (904) 822-0961
Photo of Semir Karic, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Semir Karic
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32244  (Online Only)
Hi! My name is Semir. Are you looking for a way to develop skills to overcome anxiety, depression, and other issues in your life? Well, together we can work on creating a plan to achieve your goals. Therapy is a collaborative effort we will focus on catering it to your needs. Whether you have anxiety, depression, struggling with substance use, trauma, and mood disorders. We can develop strategies to empower you to be the best you. I have 3-years of experience working with those suffering from trauma, anxiety, depression, substance use, and other forms of issues.
Hi! My name is Semir. Are you looking for a way to develop skills to overcome anxiety, depression, and other issues in your life? Well, together we can work on creating a plan to achieve your goals. Therapy is a collaborative effort we will focus on catering it to your needs. Whether you have anxiety, depression, struggling with substance use, trauma, and mood disorders. We can develop strategies to empower you to be the best you. I have 3-years of experience working with those suffering from trauma, anxiety, depression, substance use, and other forms of issues.
(305) 363-7747 View (305) 363-7747
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 Nancy St Claire Rice, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Nancy St Claire Rice
Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32207  (Online Only)
Well-versed in co-occurring disorders (recovery - substance use).
I offer empathetic, non-judgmental support to help you achieve your goals. As a licensed counselor and cultural anthropologist with 25 years of experience, I bring a unique perspective to my work. My approach is rooted in evidence-based practices, cultural sensitivity, and a deep commitment to helping individuals heal and thrive. ※Telehealth in FL, TX, AZ ※ To learn more, visit my website at: www.stclairecounseling.com
Well-versed in co-occurring disorders (recovery - substance use).
I offer empathetic, non-judgmental support to help you achieve your goals. As a licensed counselor and cultural anthropologist with 25 years of experience, I bring a unique perspective to my work. My approach is rooted in evidence-based practices, cultural sensitivity, and a deep commitment to helping individuals heal and thrive. ※Telehealth in FL, TX, AZ ※ To learn more, visit my website at: www.stclairecounseling.com
(904) 822-7538 View (904) 822-7538
Photo of Linsey Mizic, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Linsey Mizic
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32246
Hi! I am Linsey Mizic, but you can call me Lin. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Clinical Director of an outpatient substance use facility, Sophros Recovery, in Jacksonville, FL. I have had the opportunity to exist in many amazing therapeutic spaces from crisis counseling and family therapy to residential and outpatient treatment centers. In 2019, I relocated to Florida where I began my career in the substance abuse field and discovered a passion for client-centered care through individual and group therapy. I have been able to continue to help others heal their lives and reclaim their own light.
Hi! I am Linsey Mizic, but you can call me Lin. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Clinical Director of an outpatient substance use facility, Sophros Recovery, in Jacksonville, FL. I have had the opportunity to exist in many amazing therapeutic spaces from crisis counseling and family therapy to residential and outpatient treatment centers. In 2019, I relocated to Florida where I began my career in the substance abuse field and discovered a passion for client-centered care through individual and group therapy. I have been able to continue to help others heal their lives and reclaim their own light.
(904) 579-2318 View (904) 579-2318

See more therapy options for Jacksonville

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.