Substance Use Therapists in Shalimar, FL
![Photo of Stephanie Butler, LMHC-S, NCC, MCAP, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a525fad6-0379-4aa2-83d6-e532b8c754f7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Do you often feel overwhelmed by anxiety and unsure how to move forward? Are you exhausted from trying to “have it all together”? Maybe you're used to being able to figure things out, but this time seems different. Are you wondering if this is your new normal? The things that used to come easily to you may now feel almost impossible. You’ve tried to get a handle on this—maybe even by going to therapy before, but nothing is changing. My mission is to help individuals who struggle with perfectionism, self-criticism, anxiety, and chronic self-doubt, especially those who feel stuck and like they've tried it all.
Do you often feel overwhelmed by anxiety and unsure how to move forward? Are you exhausted from trying to “have it all together”? Maybe you're used to being able to figure things out, but this time seems different. Are you wondering if this is your new normal? The things that used to come easily to you may now feel almost impossible. You’ve tried to get a handle on this—maybe even by going to therapy before, but nothing is changing. My mission is to help individuals who struggle with perfectionism, self-criticism, anxiety, and chronic self-doubt, especially those who feel stuck and like they've tried it all.
![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
Shalimar, FL 32579 (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 David I Copeland, PhD, LMHC S, BSP, CCTP, CtH, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f075295-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
STOP feeling "STRESSED OUT"! Is your life being driven by anxiety/depression? You can learn better ways to reduce anxiety/stress and experience inner peace. How? By using effective proven coping skills that work and can be used anytime! Taking a whole approach (heart, soul and mind) I help individuals gain a healthy and lasting balance. My experience includes PTSD issues, addiction issues, marital problems, life transitions, and premarital counseling. Stop losing life's energy and regain better resilience! Military? As a retired veteran, I understand the challenges faced in transitions.
STOP feeling "STRESSED OUT"! Is your life being driven by anxiety/depression? You can learn better ways to reduce anxiety/stress and experience inner peace. How? By using effective proven coping skills that work and can be used anytime! Taking a whole approach (heart, soul and mind) I help individuals gain a healthy and lasting balance. My experience includes PTSD issues, addiction issues, marital problems, life transitions, and premarital counseling. Stop losing life's energy and regain better resilience! Military? As a retired veteran, I understand the challenges faced in transitions.
![Photo of Pamela Lee Downey - Emerald Coast NeuroFeedback , MS, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b13dd0c-1f3e-4d58-8ac7-a58659a138c3/1/320x400.jpeg)
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 Amanda L. Brunson, LCSW, MCAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cce2cb87-8f37-4009-a9af-26a5f110dd98/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amanda L. Brunson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MCAP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Shalimar, FL 32579
Not accepting new clients
Have you ever responded to a situation that felt like it escalated too quickly or responded in a surprising way that wasn’t intended? Sometimes, the things we experience throughout life can impact the way that we respond to the situations we are currently going through. Opening up to someone can be challenging and leave you feeling vulnerable. Amanda focuses on building rapport to create a safe place for processing. Amanda is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She specializes in working with military families and veterans. Amanda helps patients to identify their goals and learn to cope through life’s challenges in a healthy way.
Have you ever responded to a situation that felt like it escalated too quickly or responded in a surprising way that wasn’t intended? Sometimes, the things we experience throughout life can impact the way that we respond to the situations we are currently going through. Opening up to someone can be challenging and leave you feeling vulnerable. Amanda focuses on building rapport to create a safe place for processing. Amanda is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She specializes in working with military families and veterans. Amanda helps patients to identify their goals and learn to cope through life’s challenges in a healthy way.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Becky Patterson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0be9bab8-ec36-4699-95e4-edd4e6b9165d/3/320x400.jpeg)
Becky Patterson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Niceville, FL 32578
I specialize in helping those struggling with substance use, offering a safe, non-judgmental space to heal.
I am here to help anyone who feels lost or overwhelmed, especially if they're struggling with substance use. They might be carrying guilt, shame, or a sense of isolation, and they’re looking for a space where they can be truly heard without judgment. I understand how tough their journey is, and I’m here to guide them with empathy and respect. Their goals are my goals—achieving sobriety, rebuilding self-esteem, and creating a healthier life. I believe in their ability to change, and I’m committed to walking with them every step of the way.
I specialize in helping those struggling with substance use, offering a safe, non-judgmental space to heal.
I am here to help anyone who feels lost or overwhelmed, especially if they're struggling with substance use. They might be carrying guilt, shame, or a sense of isolation, and they’re looking for a space where they can be truly heard without judgment. I understand how tough their journey is, and I’m here to guide them with empathy and respect. Their goals are my goals—achieving sobriety, rebuilding self-esteem, and creating a healthier life. I believe in their ability to change, and I’m committed to walking with them every step of the way.
![Photo of Krisztian R Vegvari, LMHC, LPC, CMHC, MAC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49638ee1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
With 12 years of experience treating anxiety, substance use, and PTSD/trauma related disorders I can offer effective and long term help even to those suffering from the most extreme of concerns.
I provide effective treatment for adults and couples using individual and group therapy formats. I have extensive experience in outpatient, intensive outpatient, and military settings. I am credentialed as a Master Addiction Counselor (MAC) as well as a National Board Certified Counselor (NCC) and I am extensively trained in treating those with substance misuse concerns. In addition to my expertise in substance abuse/addiction, I also specialize in trauma/anxiety and military related difficulties; U.S. military veteran of 25 years (Air Force) and a former federal civilian employee of 8 years with the U.S. Army.
With 12 years of experience treating anxiety, substance use, and PTSD/trauma related disorders I can offer effective and long term help even to those suffering from the most extreme of concerns.
I provide effective treatment for adults and couples using individual and group therapy formats. I have extensive experience in outpatient, intensive outpatient, and military settings. I am credentialed as a Master Addiction Counselor (MAC) as well as a National Board Certified Counselor (NCC) and I am extensively trained in treating those with substance misuse concerns. In addition to my expertise in substance abuse/addiction, I also specialize in trauma/anxiety and military related difficulties; U.S. military veteran of 25 years (Air Force) and a former federal civilian employee of 8 years with the U.S. Army.
![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 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 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
Niceville, FL 32578
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 Joy Rhodes, LCMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2f169577-b8df-4fc1-b62d-e739f774f9ee/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, my name is Joy Rhodes, and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with 22 years of experience in the mental health and substance abuse field. I am here to support you in discovering new and healthy ways to manage and resolve the things that you feel are no longer serving you in a positive manner. I work with clients on a wide range of issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma-related behaviors, parenting problems, ADHD and substance use disorders.
Hello, my name is Joy Rhodes, and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with 22 years of experience in the mental health and substance abuse field. I am here to support you in discovering new and healthy ways to manage and resolve the things that you feel are no longer serving you in a positive manner. I work with clients on a wide range of issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma-related behaviors, parenting problems, ADHD and substance use disorders.
![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 Leslie Whitley - Navarre Sound Counseling , LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/486f8206-93d7-4334-adf1-bb6aac9c5169/1/320x400.jpeg)
As more needs have arisen, I have dedicated myself to providing treatment for those struggling with substance use and mental health issues.
My Ideal Client: Those who have struggled for years or even decades, with the inability to live their, “Best Life”. Those who are serious about obtaining their healing and or restoration, and will to do the required work. Those who struggle with, PTSD, CPTSD, Childhood Trauma, and or Addictions. Children and Teens with trauma. Those who are struggling with Mental Health issues, who are wanting stability and balance. Parents who struggles with traumatized, adoptive, foster, struggling children, who need help and guidance. Active duty military, veterans, and 1st responders.
As more needs have arisen, I have dedicated myself to providing treatment for those struggling with substance use and mental health issues.
My Ideal Client: Those who have struggled for years or even decades, with the inability to live their, “Best Life”. Those who are serious about obtaining their healing and or restoration, and will to do the required work. Those who struggle with, PTSD, CPTSD, Childhood Trauma, and or Addictions. Children and Teens with trauma. Those who are struggling with Mental Health issues, who are wanting stability and balance. Parents who struggles with traumatized, adoptive, foster, struggling children, who need help and guidance. Active duty military, veterans, and 1st responders.
![Photo of Joseph Robert Novak, CIP, NCIP, NCRIC-I, CCMI-I](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e9888b8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have over 22 years of experience with the 12 - Step approach to recovery. My life experience has given me empathy for those suffering with addiction. I have a passion to help others in recovery beyond the traditional methods. I realize that what may work well for some, may not work well for all. A veteran of the United States Air Force and spent 20 years serving my country. During that time I was deployed to support Operation Enduring Freedom. I am very passionate concerning Veteran's issues and I hope that I can continue to help those who struggle with addiction.
I have over 22 years of experience with the 12 - Step approach to recovery. My life experience has given me empathy for those suffering with addiction. I have a passion to help others in recovery beyond the traditional methods. I realize that what may work well for some, may not work well for all. A veteran of the United States Air Force and spent 20 years serving my country. During that time I was deployed to support Operation Enduring Freedom. I am very passionate concerning Veteran's issues and I hope that I can continue to help those who struggle with addiction.
![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 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 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 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.
![Photo of Leslie A Parham, RMHCI, MS](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5b8c6f9b-dbcf-469f-824d-f936a2905928/2/320x400.jpeg)
Leslie A Parham
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, RMHCI, MS
Verified Verified
Destin, FL 32541 (Online Only)
Do you feel emotionally disconnected from your family or life? Do you suffer from panic attacks that seem to come from nowhere? Feel like you are worrying all the time? There are times in our life that are problematic and we want to pursue gaining better perspectives on solutions. Overcoming challenges and evolve in goal setting with realistic expectations. Let's start together on finding conscientious paths to healing, easing anxiety, and finding happiness within ourselves and with others.
Do you feel emotionally disconnected from your family or life? Do you suffer from panic attacks that seem to come from nowhere? Feel like you are worrying all the time? There are times in our life that are problematic and we want to pursue gaining better perspectives on solutions. Overcoming challenges and evolve in goal setting with realistic expectations. Let's start together on finding conscientious paths to healing, easing anxiety, and finding happiness within ourselves and with others.
![Photo of Chris Carnley, MS, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43d2c3c4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Chris works with adults seeking help with mood, anxiety, and adjustment disorders. I have also worked with addictions and the myriad collateral of these issues.
Chris works with adults seeking help with mood, anxiety, and adjustment disorders. I have also worked with addictions and the myriad collateral of these issues.
See more therapy options for Shalimar
Nearby Substance Use Therapists Searches for Shalimar
- Baker
- Crestview
- Destin
- Fort Walton Beach
- Gulf Breeze
- Mary Esther
- Milton
- Miramar Beach
- Navarre
- Niceville
- Pensacola Beach
- Santa Rosa Beach
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.