Photo of Michelle Manne, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Manne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30328
I specialize in working with adolescents, young adults, and adults with anxiety, depression, and substance use disorders.
I see adolescents, young adults, and adults utilizing a variety of approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and mindfulness to facilitate growth and change. As your therapist, I will provide a safe space for personal growth and self exploration. I specialize in working with clients who are struggling with anxiety, depression, substance use disorders, ADHD, anger, self esteem, grief and loss, relationship issues, parental mental health, and life changes/transitions. Through our relationship, my goal is for you to gain a better understanding of yourself, achieve balance in your life, and be the best version of yourself.
I specialize in working with adolescents, young adults, and adults with anxiety, depression, and substance use disorders.
I see adolescents, young adults, and adults utilizing a variety of approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and mindfulness to facilitate growth and change. As your therapist, I will provide a safe space for personal growth and self exploration. I specialize in working with clients who are struggling with anxiety, depression, substance use disorders, ADHD, anger, self esteem, grief and loss, relationship issues, parental mental health, and life changes/transitions. Through our relationship, my goal is for you to gain a better understanding of yourself, achieve balance in your life, and be the best version of yourself.
(404) 586-4343 View (404) 586-4343
Photo of Kara Parker, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kara Parker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30308  (Online Only)
Hello! I'm Kara, a therapist with over a decade of treating substance use disorders and behavioral health concerns. I am passionate about working with anxiety, people-pleasing, body image, depression, codependence, and addiction. Having invested in my own therapeutic process over the years, I know firsthand how tough it can be to reach out to a therapist. However, I also know how deeply rewarding and life-changing it is to engage with a supportive, compassionate therapist.
Hello! I'm Kara, a therapist with over a decade of treating substance use disorders and behavioral health concerns. I am passionate about working with anxiety, people-pleasing, body image, depression, codependence, and addiction. Having invested in my own therapeutic process over the years, I know firsthand how tough it can be to reach out to a therapist. However, I also know how deeply rewarding and life-changing it is to engage with a supportive, compassionate therapist.
(706) 903-9262 View (706) 903-9262
Photo of Shantia Geralds - Open-Minded Therapy, LCSW, PLLC, LCSW, CASAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Open-Minded Therapy, LCSW, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CASAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30309  (Online Only)
Areas of expertise include the management of depression, anxiety, psychosis, mild substance use disorders, and/or individuals affected by love ones challenged by addiction.
Making the decision to take control over your mental health, can feel very empowering, yet, can bring forth many thoughts of uncertainty. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 10 + years’ experience in the field of Behavioral Health and Substance Use, I am here to assist you in beginning your journey to becoming your best self! Together, we will break down barriers that prevent you from achieving your desired goals, and identify strategies that will help you live life purposefully.
Areas of expertise include the management of depression, anxiety, psychosis, mild substance use disorders, and/or individuals affected by love ones challenged by addiction.
Making the decision to take control over your mental health, can feel very empowering, yet, can bring forth many thoughts of uncertainty. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 10 + years’ experience in the field of Behavioral Health and Substance Use, I am here to assist you in beginning your journey to becoming your best self! Together, we will break down barriers that prevent you from achieving your desired goals, and identify strategies that will help you live life purposefully.
(516) 884-9977 View (516) 884-9977
Photo of Lyresa McGriff - Forensic Evaluations | Board Certified, LPC, CCFMHE, CAMSII, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Forensic Evaluations | Board Certified
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCFMHE, CAMSII, NCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30339
We provide court approved Forensic Evaluations for substance use, anger management and psychological testing services. We are a trusted provider offering a comprehensive range of court mandated and employer mandated services. These services include alcohol and drug evaluations, anger management evaluations, SAP Evaluations, mental health evaluations, anger management classes, shoplifting prevention classes. MRT program is available as well.
We provide court approved Forensic Evaluations for substance use, anger management and psychological testing services. We are a trusted provider offering a comprehensive range of court mandated and employer mandated services. These services include alcohol and drug evaluations, anger management evaluations, SAP Evaluations, mental health evaluations, anger management classes, shoplifting prevention classes. MRT program is available as well.
(678) 971-2359 View (678) 971-2359
Photo of Misti Storie, MS, NCC, LPC, MAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Misti Storie
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC, MAC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30307
I specialize in counseling services concerning LGBTQIA+ clients, substance use, depression and despair, stress and anxiety, trauma, life adjustment/transition, grief and loss, couples/family dynamics.
My goal is to provide cost-effective, solution-focused treatment to help you feel better in the shortest amount of time. I recognize that whatever brings you to therapy has created pain or problems. That's why we will immediately begin work on how to gain short-term and long-term relief.
I specialize in counseling services concerning LGBTQIA+ clients, substance use, depression and despair, stress and anxiety, trauma, life adjustment/transition, grief and loss, couples/family dynamics.
My goal is to provide cost-effective, solution-focused treatment to help you feel better in the shortest amount of time. I recognize that whatever brings you to therapy has created pain or problems. That's why we will immediately begin work on how to gain short-term and long-term relief.
(404) 666-8437 View (404) 666-8437
Photo of Deirdre Morgan, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Deirdre Morgan
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Johns Creek, GA 30097
I am a retired Air Force Veteran, specializing in evidenced based trauma-focused therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, as well as in substance use issues and eating disorders.
Hello, have you experienced challenges in life and need someone to talk to? I have always had a love and desire to help others in their growth and healing, which lead to my desire to become a psychologist. I believe in meeting people where they are and offering a holistic and person-centered approach to therapy. Working together, we can get you on a path to recovery.
I am a retired Air Force Veteran, specializing in evidenced based trauma-focused therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, as well as in substance use issues and eating disorders.
Hello, have you experienced challenges in life and need someone to talk to? I have always had a love and desire to help others in their growth and healing, which lead to my desire to become a psychologist. I believe in meeting people where they are and offering a holistic and person-centered approach to therapy. Working together, we can get you on a path to recovery.
(404) 383-8036 View (404) 383-8036
Photo of Johanna Wendell, LPC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Johanna Wendell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30339
Do you feel like you are stuck in a vicious cycle and can't make it stop? This can happen to the best of us and lead to us feeling discouraged, hopeless, and helpless. I promise you, there is hope and help. If you're struggling with anxiety, depression, disordered eating, substance use, relationship issues or other problems and could use some help, I would love to help. Together, we can work to get to the root of the problem, resolve any unhealed wounds, learn healthy coping skills, and ultimately overcome the issues you've been battling. You deserve to live free of these burdens, and you absolutely can!
Do you feel like you are stuck in a vicious cycle and can't make it stop? This can happen to the best of us and lead to us feeling discouraged, hopeless, and helpless. I promise you, there is hope and help. If you're struggling with anxiety, depression, disordered eating, substance use, relationship issues or other problems and could use some help, I would love to help. Together, we can work to get to the root of the problem, resolve any unhealed wounds, learn healthy coping skills, and ultimately overcome the issues you've been battling. You deserve to live free of these burdens, and you absolutely can!
(678) 730-2653 View (678) 730-2653
Photo of Melissa Grasso (Formerly Macdonald), LCSW, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Grasso (Formerly Macdonald)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LLC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30324
I specialize in working with adults and couples with the following concerns: relationship distress, attachment, women’s issues, LGBTQ+ issues, anxiety, depression, body-image issues, stress management, substance use, self-awareness and personal growth.
Above all treatment modalities, the biggest predictor of success in therapy is a positive relationship between the client and the therapist. As a therapist, I work to create a safe, non-judgemental therapeutic environment in which clients can heal and grow. During our time in therapy together, we will work closely to analyze what struggles you are facing, their underlying causes, and try to change the behaviors and thought patterns that are keeping you from being the person you want to be.
I specialize in working with adults and couples with the following concerns: relationship distress, attachment, women’s issues, LGBTQ+ issues, anxiety, depression, body-image issues, stress management, substance use, self-awareness and personal growth.
Above all treatment modalities, the biggest predictor of success in therapy is a positive relationship between the client and the therapist. As a therapist, I work to create a safe, non-judgemental therapeutic environment in which clients can heal and grow. During our time in therapy together, we will work closely to analyze what struggles you are facing, their underlying causes, and try to change the behaviors and thought patterns that are keeping you from being the person you want to be.
(404) 738-9856 View (404) 738-9856
Photo of Ruskee Porterfield, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ruskee Porterfield
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30339
Starting therapy can feel like the most vulnerable experience you will encounter, especially with someone you have never met. You are not alone in these feelings. I seek to provide you with a safe space that allows you to find passion in your life and remove blocks that are keeping you from thriving. Whether you are working through a break-up that feels unbearable, an eating disorder that seems relentless, substance use dependency, dissociative identity, or trauma experiences that feel uprooting, you do not have to work through this challenging process alone.
Starting therapy can feel like the most vulnerable experience you will encounter, especially with someone you have never met. You are not alone in these feelings. I seek to provide you with a safe space that allows you to find passion in your life and remove blocks that are keeping you from thriving. Whether you are working through a break-up that feels unbearable, an eating disorder that seems relentless, substance use dependency, dissociative identity, or trauma experiences that feel uprooting, you do not have to work through this challenging process alone.
(404) 531-7483 View (404) 531-7483
Photo of Leah Farrell-Carnahan, PhD, LCP, Psychologist
Leah Farrell-Carnahan
Psychologist, PhD, LCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30307
I am a specialist offering cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) with mindfulness training for anxiety (generalized anxiety, phobias, social anxiety, health anxiety, etc.), obsessive compulsive or related disorders, perfectionism, insomnia, and post traumatic stress. I also help with depression, substance use, and chronic health conditions as well as difficulties adjusting to life changes, career, or relationships.
I am a specialist offering cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) with mindfulness training for anxiety (generalized anxiety, phobias, social anxiety, health anxiety, etc.), obsessive compulsive or related disorders, perfectionism, insomnia, and post traumatic stress. I also help with depression, substance use, and chronic health conditions as well as difficulties adjusting to life changes, career, or relationships.
(678) 820-4557 View (678) 820-4557
Photo of Tiffany Hill, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tiffany Hill
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Roswell, GA 30075
Tiffany Hill is a Licensed Professional Counselor, Certified Professional Counselor Supervisor, and National Certified Counselor with 11 years of experience in the mental health field. She is passionate about helping adults choose themselves, love themselves, free themselves, and heal themselves. Additionally, she seeks to aid individuals in becoming the best version of themselves, building upon their strengths, and creating an atmosphere of trust. Tiffany specializes in depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use, family systems, and co-occurring disorders.
Tiffany Hill is a Licensed Professional Counselor, Certified Professional Counselor Supervisor, and National Certified Counselor with 11 years of experience in the mental health field. She is passionate about helping adults choose themselves, love themselves, free themselves, and heal themselves. Additionally, she seeks to aid individuals in becoming the best version of themselves, building upon their strengths, and creating an atmosphere of trust. Tiffany specializes in depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use, family systems, and co-occurring disorders.
(678) 671-5096 View (678) 671-5096
Photo of Teresa Carter, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Teresa Carter
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30344
However, often there is no obvious explanation for the overwhelming feelings that can completely upset life balance and emotional wellbeing resulting in anxiety, depression, couple discord, and even substance use concerns.
Hello, my name is Teresa Carter and I go by Terri. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) licensed by the state of Georgia, where I live and provide therapy across the state via telehealth. I primarily work with adults 18 and older experiencing anxiety, depression, substance use, trauma, and relationship concerns. The modalities I most rely upon include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance Commitment Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy-Mindfulness to help my clients progressively regain their life balance.
However, often there is no obvious explanation for the overwhelming feelings that can completely upset life balance and emotional wellbeing resulting in anxiety, depression, couple discord, and even substance use concerns.
Hello, my name is Teresa Carter and I go by Terri. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) licensed by the state of Georgia, where I live and provide therapy across the state via telehealth. I primarily work with adults 18 and older experiencing anxiety, depression, substance use, trauma, and relationship concerns. The modalities I most rely upon include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance Commitment Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy-Mindfulness to help my clients progressively regain their life balance.
(470) 693-7908 View (470) 693-7908
Photo of Celia Webb, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Celia Webb
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30328
The decision to begin (or deepen) therapy is a big one. I imagine you’ve attempted to manage a lot of things as best as you possibly could and that led you here. I’m so happy you’re here. I help clients navigate life when there’s been a few (or many) wrong turns and bumps in the road. I am skilled at working with all parts of a client when they have a history of trauma (knowingly or not). This often takes the form of eating disorders, anxiety, emotional overwhelm or dysregulation, dissociation, self-esteem issues, relationship issues, or substance use.
The decision to begin (or deepen) therapy is a big one. I imagine you’ve attempted to manage a lot of things as best as you possibly could and that led you here. I’m so happy you’re here. I help clients navigate life when there’s been a few (or many) wrong turns and bumps in the road. I am skilled at working with all parts of a client when they have a history of trauma (knowingly or not). This often takes the form of eating disorders, anxiety, emotional overwhelm or dysregulation, dissociation, self-esteem issues, relationship issues, or substance use.
(678) 325-2797 View (678) 325-2797
Photo of Ericka Stricklin-Parker - Powers Ferry Psychological Associates, PsyD, Psychologist
Powers Ferry Psychological Associates
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30339
I have dedicated my training to establishing expertise in the areas of mental illness, substance use problems, and multicultural issues so that I can offer clients an integrated approach.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who works with individuals seeking solutions to everyday life problems. People often ask me "do I have to be crazy to come for an appointment?" I say "No, you just have to be human!" I bring my educational background and experience in clinical psychology into the room to help people meet their goals. I have many years of experience assisting people with such problems as depression, anxiety, substance abuse, adjustment problems and relationship issues. My goal is to educate people on the benefits of counseling and to demystify the process. My website is www.dresponline.com
I have dedicated my training to establishing expertise in the areas of mental illness, substance use problems, and multicultural issues so that I can offer clients an integrated approach.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who works with individuals seeking solutions to everyday life problems. People often ask me "do I have to be crazy to come for an appointment?" I say "No, you just have to be human!" I bring my educational background and experience in clinical psychology into the room to help people meet their goals. I have many years of experience assisting people with such problems as depression, anxiety, substance abuse, adjustment problems and relationship issues. My goal is to educate people on the benefits of counseling and to demystify the process. My website is www.dresponline.com
(404) 609-1304 View (404) 609-1304
Photo of Cecelia Mack, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cecelia Mack
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Alpharetta, GA 30022
I am a licensed Professional Counselor with several years of experience working in clinical psychology settings, ranging from an inpatient psychiatric hospital to a women's residential substance use disorder treatment program.
Hey, I'm Cecelia. I specialize in assisting those who often feel overwhelmed, teaching them distress tolerance techniques and stress management skills. Let's work together to develop strategies for managing your emotions effectively. I understand that seeking therapy can be daunting, but you're taking a positive step forward. You deserve a nurturing environment to foster healing and personal growth.
I am a licensed Professional Counselor with several years of experience working in clinical psychology settings, ranging from an inpatient psychiatric hospital to a women's residential substance use disorder treatment program.
Hey, I'm Cecelia. I specialize in assisting those who often feel overwhelmed, teaching them distress tolerance techniques and stress management skills. Let's work together to develop strategies for managing your emotions effectively. I understand that seeking therapy can be daunting, but you're taking a positive step forward. You deserve a nurturing environment to foster healing and personal growth.
(678) 218-1476 View (678) 218-1476
Photo of Mara B. Collins, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mara B. Collins
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30344  (Online Only)
My approach to substance use management as well as other behavioral changes is called Harm Reduction.
Are you or a loved one: Dealing with issues of coming out or gender transition? A couple looking to adopt or blend a family? The parent of a child dealing with their sexuality? Coping with grief or trauma? Working through past or present abuse? Affected by substance use? I can help. For over 15 years, I have worked with individuals, couples and families seeking answers to questions like these. Your concerns are important. You deserve a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who understands them from day one.
My approach to substance use management as well as other behavioral changes is called Harm Reduction.
Are you or a loved one: Dealing with issues of coming out or gender transition? A couple looking to adopt or blend a family? The parent of a child dealing with their sexuality? Coping with grief or trauma? Working through past or present abuse? Affected by substance use? I can help. For over 15 years, I have worked with individuals, couples and families seeking answers to questions like these. Your concerns are important. You deserve a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who understands them from day one.
(678) 918-4118 View (678) 918-4118
Photo of Cecelia Mack, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cecelia Mack
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Alpharetta, GA 30022
I am a licensed Professional Counselor with several years of experience working in clinical psychology settings, ranging from an inpatient psychiatric hospital to a women's residential substance use disorder treatment program.
Hey, I'm Cecelia. I specialize in assisting those who often feel overwhelmed, teaching them distress tolerance techniques and stress management skills. Let's work together to develop strategies for managing your emotions effectively. I understand that seeking therapy can be daunting, but you're taking a positive step forward. You deserve a nurturing environment to foster healing and personal growth.
I am a licensed Professional Counselor with several years of experience working in clinical psychology settings, ranging from an inpatient psychiatric hospital to a women's residential substance use disorder treatment program.
Hey, I'm Cecelia. I specialize in assisting those who often feel overwhelmed, teaching them distress tolerance techniques and stress management skills. Let's work together to develop strategies for managing your emotions effectively. I understand that seeking therapy can be daunting, but you're taking a positive step forward. You deserve a nurturing environment to foster healing and personal growth.
(678) 347-1109 View (678) 347-1109
Photo of Jenise Clark, LPC, CMAC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jenise Clark
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CMAC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30303  (Online Only)
With a deep appreciation for diverse cultures and extensive expertise in assisting veterans and adults facing challenges in substance use, behavior management, and mental health, I bring a wealth of experience to our sessions. I firmly believe in the inherent value of every individual, recognizing their unique contributions to today's society. In our sessions, we'll delve into identifying the stressors impacting your life and explore your reactions to them. This exploration lays the foundation for a tailored treatment plan aimed at addressing your specific needs.
With a deep appreciation for diverse cultures and extensive expertise in assisting veterans and adults facing challenges in substance use, behavior management, and mental health, I bring a wealth of experience to our sessions. I firmly believe in the inherent value of every individual, recognizing their unique contributions to today's society. In our sessions, we'll delve into identifying the stressors impacting your life and explore your reactions to them. This exploration lays the foundation for a tailored treatment plan aimed at addressing your specific needs.
(404) 491-7926 View (404) 491-7926
Photo of Stefanie Speanburg, PhD, LCSW, FABP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stefanie Speanburg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, FABP
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30307
Should you contact me, you will find that I am an attentive, genuinely concerned, boundaried, and professional therapist with advanced training in the treatment of trauma related distress; personality disorders; inhibitions and self defeat in work, love, and creativity; and compulsions in the substance use, sexual behavior, and work performance.
Feeling down? Anxious? Exhausted? Doubting your self and your ability to make important changes in your life? Despite your best intentions, are you always getting in your own way? Maybe you take much better care of others than yourself. Perhaps "you have it all", but still feel empty or bored? Are your thoughts dominated by self criticisms, fear, and troublesome memories? Perhaps, you have read self help books and have tried trendy quick-fixes. Why continue to go at it alone? Therapy can help you recognize the patterns of relating to your self and others that contribute to your ongoing distress.
Should you contact me, you will find that I am an attentive, genuinely concerned, boundaried, and professional therapist with advanced training in the treatment of trauma related distress; personality disorders; inhibitions and self defeat in work, love, and creativity; and compulsions in the substance use, sexual behavior, and work performance.
Feeling down? Anxious? Exhausted? Doubting your self and your ability to make important changes in your life? Despite your best intentions, are you always getting in your own way? Maybe you take much better care of others than yourself. Perhaps "you have it all", but still feel empty or bored? Are your thoughts dominated by self criticisms, fear, and troublesome memories? Perhaps, you have read self help books and have tried trendy quick-fixes. Why continue to go at it alone? Therapy can help you recognize the patterns of relating to your self and others that contribute to your ongoing distress.
(404) 994-4480 View (404) 994-4480
Photo of Candace Dale Mckenzie, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Candace Dale Mckenzie
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30306  (Online Only)
In conjunction with CBT and when needed, I also specialize in Exposure Response Prevention for the reduction of compulsions and rituals with OCD, as well as grounding DBT skills with Eating and Substance Use Disorders driven by depression , trauma, and anxiety.
I currently offer only Telehealth if you reside in CA and GA, and can compassionately meet you where you are at by providing a safe and supportive space. Many come to therapy to learn new ways to manage anxiety, depression, stress, or find ways to create fulfillment and connection in life again. Together we can explore ineffective patterns, and work on strengthening coping , communication, problem solving skills, self compassion, as well as ways to deepen relationships for lasting change.
In conjunction with CBT and when needed, I also specialize in Exposure Response Prevention for the reduction of compulsions and rituals with OCD, as well as grounding DBT skills with Eating and Substance Use Disorders driven by depression , trauma, and anxiety.
I currently offer only Telehealth if you reside in CA and GA, and can compassionately meet you where you are at by providing a safe and supportive space. Many come to therapy to learn new ways to manage anxiety, depression, stress, or find ways to create fulfillment and connection in life again. Together we can explore ineffective patterns, and work on strengthening coping , communication, problem solving skills, self compassion, as well as ways to deepen relationships for lasting change.
(310) 774-0398 View (310) 774-0398
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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.