Substance Use Therapists in Shelbyville, IN
![Photo of Bonnie Spallinger, MA, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b75c007b-4dc6-460b-8efe-fe80f99dd45d/3/320x400.jpeg)
Bonnie is able assist individuals and families with depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, parenting issues, ADHD, self-harm, suicidal ideation, grief, substance use, and adjustment disorders.
Bonnie Spallinger is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Indiana. She completed her graduate program from Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia in 2015. Bonnie has served in community health for 4.5 years and has experience working with families, women, men, adolescents, and children. Her expertise is working with adolescents and emerging adults struggling with trauma, decision making, life issues, and behavioral issues. She enjoys assisting parents in finding helpful methods to parent their children.
Bonnie is able assist individuals and families with depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, parenting issues, ADHD, self-harm, suicidal ideation, grief, substance use, and adjustment disorders.
Bonnie Spallinger is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Indiana. She completed her graduate program from Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia in 2015. Bonnie has served in community health for 4.5 years and has experience working with families, women, men, adolescents, and children. Her expertise is working with adolescents and emerging adults struggling with trauma, decision making, life issues, and behavioral issues. She enjoys assisting parents in finding helpful methods to parent their children.
![Photo of Victoria A Harris, MSW, LCSW, LCAC, CTRTC, NCGC-, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5ff73d50-28e6-4c19-9e4c-9889fb2b4b41/1/320x400.jpeg)
Victoria A Harris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAC, CTRTC, NCGC-
Verified Verified
Shelbyville, IN 46176
The mission at ER Counseling LLC is dedicated to providing counseling services to empower individuals, couples, and families to improve their overall quality of life. Counseling is available for individuals, couples and families in a comfortable setting. Therapy focuses on the present not the past, on solutions not the problem utilizing a Client Centered and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy approach. Certified as a Reality Therapy and Choice Theory therapist practical and effective approaches in helping people change are used. Clients learn skills and gain information they can use immediately.
The mission at ER Counseling LLC is dedicated to providing counseling services to empower individuals, couples, and families to improve their overall quality of life. Counseling is available for individuals, couples and families in a comfortable setting. Therapy focuses on the present not the past, on solutions not the problem utilizing a Client Centered and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy approach. Certified as a Reality Therapy and Choice Theory therapist practical and effective approaches in helping people change are used. Clients learn skills and gain information they can use immediately.
![Photo of Motina F Herbert - Therapy's Peace Within Recovery Counseling, MPsych, LAC, CADACII, MS, Drug & Alcohol Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/861e057c-e6b2-4ee5-a1d8-8761323f5e07/1/320x400.jpeg)
Therapy's Peace Within Recovery Counseling
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MPsych, LAC, CADACII, MS
Verified Verified
Shelbyville, IN 46176
You Can Change Your Life and I can help! If you are looking for counseling to meet you where you are, a person who will listen without judgment in a confidential environment, I am your person. I can help you gain knowledge, understanding, and recovery abilities to build a sober life, achieve inner peace, and grow.
You Can Change Your Life and I can help! If you are looking for counseling to meet you where you are, a person who will listen without judgment in a confidential environment, I am your person. I can help you gain knowledge, understanding, and recovery abilities to build a sober life, achieve inner peace, and grow.
![Photo of Amy Pennington, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/34c66b2b-75d6-4b7e-8810-54234ce28f54/2/320x400.jpeg)
Do you struggle with using substances as a way to cope, and is it impacting your life in a negative way? Or is your teenager having trouble managing the anxiety and pressure of school and life? Are their grades lacking due to difficulty focusing, staying organized and on task? I often see adults and teens struggle with regulating emotions, navigating relationships, and managing the stressors of daily life? These struggles can wrecked self-esteem, leave you feeling stuck, and feel so overwhelming to face alone. If this sounds like you or your teen, I am here to help you in find balance, motivation, and change in your life.
Do you struggle with using substances as a way to cope, and is it impacting your life in a negative way? Or is your teenager having trouble managing the anxiety and pressure of school and life? Are their grades lacking due to difficulty focusing, staying organized and on task? I often see adults and teens struggle with regulating emotions, navigating relationships, and managing the stressors of daily life? These struggles can wrecked self-esteem, leave you feeling stuck, and feel so overwhelming to face alone. If this sounds like you or your teen, I am here to help you in find balance, motivation, and change in your life.
![Photo of Kimberly Hage, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42a07891-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kimberly Hage
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Shelbyville, IN 46176
Not accepting new clients
Not Taking New Clients. One of my first goals in therapy is to provide an atmosphere of privacy, safety and confidentiality. Have you ever felt overwhelmed, struggling with images of a traumatic event, never told someone about sexual abuse that still haunts you? Are you trying to get clean from alcohol and or drugs? Plagued by panic attacks or hopelessness? I would love to work with you so you can achieve your goals. I have a blended family of 7 children am a grandmother of 8 beautiful grandchildren. I love camping, hiking, fishing, gardening, puzzles and spending time with my cats.
Not Taking New Clients. One of my first goals in therapy is to provide an atmosphere of privacy, safety and confidentiality. Have you ever felt overwhelmed, struggling with images of a traumatic event, never told someone about sexual abuse that still haunts you? Are you trying to get clean from alcohol and or drugs? Plagued by panic attacks or hopelessness? I would love to work with you so you can achieve your goals. I have a blended family of 7 children am a grandmother of 8 beautiful grandchildren. I love camping, hiking, fishing, gardening, puzzles and spending time with my cats.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Teri Cardwell, LCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4e35dd48-8532-446c-8cf2-b98c8b228503/2/320x400.png)
I have worked with behavioral health (anxiety, substance use); mood disorders including depression, Bipolar, and dual diagnoses; trauma and PTSD; and personality disorders.
As a therapist, I am most excited to see clients motivated to explore their unknown strengths, widen their horizons, increase their abilities to make informed decisions and lead a life of meaning as they define it. Everyone I have worked with brings to therapy a foundation upon which to grow. Regardless of the problem, an enhanced sense of self is possible. Instilling hope of something better in life is one of my greatest motivations, and assisting others in achieving their goals drew me to this profession.
I have worked with behavioral health (anxiety, substance use); mood disorders including depression, Bipolar, and dual diagnoses; trauma and PTSD; and personality disorders.
As a therapist, I am most excited to see clients motivated to explore their unknown strengths, widen their horizons, increase their abilities to make informed decisions and lead a life of meaning as they define it. Everyone I have worked with brings to therapy a foundation upon which to grow. Regardless of the problem, an enhanced sense of self is possible. Instilling hope of something better in life is one of my greatest motivations, and assisting others in achieving their goals drew me to this profession.
![Photo of Jamye Miller, MSEd, LMHC, LCAC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/af900cec-f259-4cf2-b252-4563acdf286e/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have been working in the addictions/mental field for 4 years, with a focus on serving those recovering from substance use disorders. My goal is to support and empower individuals in active addiction and those in recovery to achieve their goals in life. Using a person-centered approach, I assist individuals in identifying and growing their unique characteristics into their biggest strengths. Reaching your recovery goals does not have to be lonely! I meet individuals where they are using harm-reduction approaches and by facilitating self-reflection to reduce the harm that substances are having on my clients’ lives.
I have been working in the addictions/mental field for 4 years, with a focus on serving those recovering from substance use disorders. My goal is to support and empower individuals in active addiction and those in recovery to achieve their goals in life. Using a person-centered approach, I assist individuals in identifying and growing their unique characteristics into their biggest strengths. Reaching your recovery goals does not have to be lonely! I meet individuals where they are using harm-reduction approaches and by facilitating self-reflection to reduce the harm that substances are having on my clients’ lives.
![Photo of Jessica Smith, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1ba2c264-d658-4de3-80e8-b44dbb1aff29/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46201 (Online Only)
I also have a lot of experience working with individuals with substance use disorders.
Hi! My name is Jessica and I am originally from Atlanta, GA and attended the University of Georgia (Go Dawgs!) where I received a bachelor’s degree in Communications. I worked for several years in the nonprofit development field before deciding that I wanted to return to school part time to pursue a Masters of Social Work degree. During this time, I lived and worked in inner city Philadelphia, Washington D.C. and then did some rural social service work in Central Pennsylvania. These different experiences have impacted the way I view therapy today. I believe in a person-centered approach to therapy and meeting clients where they are.
I also have a lot of experience working with individuals with substance use disorders.
Hi! My name is Jessica and I am originally from Atlanta, GA and attended the University of Georgia (Go Dawgs!) where I received a bachelor’s degree in Communications. I worked for several years in the nonprofit development field before deciding that I wanted to return to school part time to pursue a Masters of Social Work degree. During this time, I lived and worked in inner city Philadelphia, Washington D.C. and then did some rural social service work in Central Pennsylvania. These different experiences have impacted the way I view therapy today. I believe in a person-centered approach to therapy and meeting clients where they are.
![Photo of Autumn Marie Meyer, LMHC-A, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e3a4f0e1-a02a-4cd8-b10c-a7bbe22ebd91/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have a strong belief that all individuals are resilient and cable of living full, authentic lives. I have worked in an outpatient clinic working in forensics as well as higher levels of care to the outpatient level for eating disorders with co-occurring diagnoses. If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, grief, relationship difficulties, substance-use, disordered eating/body image, and stress-related issues, I would be happy to assist you in a judgment-free, supportive environment.
I have a strong belief that all individuals are resilient and cable of living full, authentic lives. I have worked in an outpatient clinic working in forensics as well as higher levels of care to the outpatient level for eating disorders with co-occurring diagnoses. If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, grief, relationship difficulties, substance-use, disordered eating/body image, and stress-related issues, I would be happy to assist you in a judgment-free, supportive environment.
![Photo of Alexa Grossman, MSW, LSW, LCACA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b970312-c33b-4ab7-ba46-4660149430c8/3/320x400.jpeg)
Alexa Grossman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW, LCACA
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Fishers, IN 46037
Waitlist for new clients
I am dedicated to supporting adults struggling with trauma, anxiety, challenges with relationships, and alcohol or drug use. I'm here to guide you in breaking free from unhelpful patterns, helping you regain control and build a life aligned with your values. In my practice, I address challenges such as shame, guilt, low self-esteem, excessive worrying, unhelpful patterns of thinking, damaged relationships, isolation, work issues, substance use, impulsivity, and anger.
I am dedicated to supporting adults struggling with trauma, anxiety, challenges with relationships, and alcohol or drug use. I'm here to guide you in breaking free from unhelpful patterns, helping you regain control and build a life aligned with your values. In my practice, I address challenges such as shame, guilt, low self-esteem, excessive worrying, unhelpful patterns of thinking, damaged relationships, isolation, work issues, substance use, impulsivity, and anger.
![Photo of Amanda Shelton - Amanda Shelton , LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/67d0f30d-aa2a-4427-97b6-270d890a7bb0/1/320x400.jpeg)
I listen actively and offer structured feedback to help with issues like adapting to life changes, managing mental health, healing from trauma, and overcoming substance use.
Hi, I'm Amanda, a dedicated LMHC therapist in Indiana. With over 20 years of experience in mental health, I am passionate about providing individuals and families with the opportunity to rewrite their stories and transform their lives. My goal is to extend my services to a wider audience through private practice, where I can empower clients to tap into their creativity as a means of self-expression and healing.
I listen actively and offer structured feedback to help with issues like adapting to life changes, managing mental health, healing from trauma, and overcoming substance use.
Hi, I'm Amanda, a dedicated LMHC therapist in Indiana. With over 20 years of experience in mental health, I am passionate about providing individuals and families with the opportunity to rewrite their stories and transform their lives. My goal is to extend my services to a wider audience through private practice, where I can empower clients to tap into their creativity as a means of self-expression and healing.
![Photo of Teri Cardwell, LCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/17d73afb-183f-4bf9-9189-70162c5e26b6/2/320x400.png)
I have worked with behavioral health (anxiety, substance use); mood disorders including depression, Bipolar, and dual diagnoses; trauma and PTSD; and personality disorders.
As a therapist, I am most excited to see clients motivated to explore their unknown strengths, widen their horizons, increase their abilities to make informed decisions and lead a life of meaning as they define it. Everyone I have worked with brings to therapy a foundation upon which to grow. Regardless of the problem, an enhanced sense of self is possible. Instilling hope of something better in life is one of my greatest motivations, and assisting others in achieving their goals drew me to this profession.
I have worked with behavioral health (anxiety, substance use); mood disorders including depression, Bipolar, and dual diagnoses; trauma and PTSD; and personality disorders.
As a therapist, I am most excited to see clients motivated to explore their unknown strengths, widen their horizons, increase their abilities to make informed decisions and lead a life of meaning as they define it. Everyone I have worked with brings to therapy a foundation upon which to grow. Regardless of the problem, an enhanced sense of self is possible. Instilling hope of something better in life is one of my greatest motivations, and assisting others in achieving their goals drew me to this profession.
![Photo of Rinkoo Sidhu](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b7acb16a-493d-42af-8034-9871e6cbd3c5/2/320x400.png)
Over the past decade, I have been focusing my attention on adults with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, alcohol use disorder, and other substance use disorders.
Hello, my name is Rinkoo Sidhu and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) currently licensed in the states of Indiana, Texas, and California. I specialize in psychiatry through a patient-centered approach.
Over the past decade, I have been focusing my attention on adults with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, alcohol use disorder, and other substance use disorders.
Hello, my name is Rinkoo Sidhu and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) currently licensed in the states of Indiana, Texas, and California. I specialize in psychiatry through a patient-centered approach.
![Photo of Dr. Elizabeth Jackson, PsyD, HSPP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/41c89885-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Areas of Interest : Anxiety, Autism Evaluations, ADHD, Family Therapy, Divorce, Relationship and Social Skills Building, Veterans, Parenting Development, Legal Issues and Court Ordered Evaluations or Counseling, Assessment Services, Substance Use, Personality and Intelligence, Depression, Bipolar Disorder.
I have been practicing psychology successfully for over 20 years. My story includes how I overcame my own struggles during a difficult divorce and the death of my father by using highly researched and validated techniques. As a result, I have mastered a clinically valid approach to overcoming life challenges. I believe my role is to serve as a facilitator to assist you in healing and realizing your true potential by developing the skill set to walk a uniquely determined path toward self-actualization.
Areas of Interest : Anxiety, Autism Evaluations, ADHD, Family Therapy, Divorce, Relationship and Social Skills Building, Veterans, Parenting Development, Legal Issues and Court Ordered Evaluations or Counseling, Assessment Services, Substance Use, Personality and Intelligence, Depression, Bipolar Disorder.
I have been practicing psychology successfully for over 20 years. My story includes how I overcame my own struggles during a difficult divorce and the death of my father by using highly researched and validated techniques. As a result, I have mastered a clinically valid approach to overcoming life challenges. I believe my role is to serve as a facilitator to assist you in healing and realizing your true potential by developing the skill set to walk a uniquely determined path toward self-actualization.
![Photo of Julia Aubrey Rhodes, LMHCA, ATR-P, MA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/11cc6b88-14c2-4df0-8c09-4a6ec60afa34/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have experience working work clients who struggle with substance use, anxiety, depression, and individuals in hospital settings providing medical art therapy services.
I work with a wide age range of clients, including children, adolescents, and adults who are seeking therapy services through the creative process of Art Therapy, as well as traditional psychotherapy. I'm currently under the supervision of Melissa McFall, LMHC, ATR-BC as I work toward obtaining full licensure in mental health counseling, as well as board certification as an art therapist.
I have experience working work clients who struggle with substance use, anxiety, depression, and individuals in hospital settings providing medical art therapy services.
I work with a wide age range of clients, including children, adolescents, and adults who are seeking therapy services through the creative process of Art Therapy, as well as traditional psychotherapy. I'm currently under the supervision of Melissa McFall, LMHC, ATR-BC as I work toward obtaining full licensure in mental health counseling, as well as board certification as an art therapist.
![Photo of Cagney Ryan Gladin, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d89cb225-9efd-4a8d-9499-102ef24344df/1/320x400.jpeg)
Cagney Ryan Gladin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46214 (Online Only)
I specialize in working with individuals who have experienced life changes, trauma, stressors, and/or struggled with substance use. I aim to partner with clients to understand what changes they are looking for, and walk along side them as they achieve their goals. I strongly believe that change is possible and that every human can grow to be the self they strive for. I look to provide support for those engaged in sex work, in the kink community, LGBTQI+ community, those who use substances, or have faced any discrimination or oppression. I am happy to support trans-individuals in gender affirming care and support.
I specialize in working with individuals who have experienced life changes, trauma, stressors, and/or struggled with substance use. I aim to partner with clients to understand what changes they are looking for, and walk along side them as they achieve their goals. I strongly believe that change is possible and that every human can grow to be the self they strive for. I look to provide support for those engaged in sex work, in the kink community, LGBTQI+ community, those who use substances, or have faced any discrimination or oppression. I am happy to support trans-individuals in gender affirming care and support.
![Photo of David Leap, LMHC, LCAC, MA, EMDR, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50cd98d7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sometimes we get stuck and feel trapped by our experiences related to substance use, addictive thinking, trauma, anxiety, depression and other addictive or high risk behaviors. If this sounds like you, I would like to help you manage these experiences and empower you to break through the challenges associated with your personal experience. I would like the opportunity to help you build up and enhance your strengths, minimize and plan for your limitations, and give you hope and opportunities to make the changes you desire.
Sometimes we get stuck and feel trapped by our experiences related to substance use, addictive thinking, trauma, anxiety, depression and other addictive or high risk behaviors. If this sounds like you, I would like to help you manage these experiences and empower you to break through the challenges associated with your personal experience. I would like the opportunity to help you build up and enhance your strengths, minimize and plan for your limitations, and give you hope and opportunities to make the changes you desire.
![Photo of Mary Jones - Insight Therapy, LMHC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3df7e6ae-a147-4856-aed4-6104a08c12a1/2/320x400.jpeg)
The most common struggles of the people I work with include Borderline Personality Disorder, PTSD, struggles with assertiveness, gray-area substance use, and anger outbursts.
Everyone deserves a safe place to explore their thoughts and feelings. One request I may ask of clients when we work together is that labels like “right” or “wrong” are strongly discouraged in sessions. I believe clients are the experts in themselves and I provide a safe space to explore thoughts and feelings without judgment. Letting go of those labels in session is an important part of creating that safe space.
The most common struggles of the people I work with include Borderline Personality Disorder, PTSD, struggles with assertiveness, gray-area substance use, and anger outbursts.
Everyone deserves a safe place to explore their thoughts and feelings. One request I may ask of clients when we work together is that labels like “right” or “wrong” are strongly discouraged in sessions. I believe clients are the experts in themselves and I provide a safe space to explore thoughts and feelings without judgment. Letting go of those labels in session is an important part of creating that safe space.
![Photo of Chelsea Chang, LCSW, LCADC, ICADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d7478404-2beb-4aa7-9059-4a7bd1700107/1/320x400.jpeg)
Chelsea Chang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC, ICADC
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46208 (Online Only)
I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker since 2019, and I have experience supporting young adults and adults with concerns such as addictions, substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, life transitions, relationship/ family issues, and anger management. My ideal client would like to resolve these issues by empowering themselves to learn how to counter negative thoughts, regulate emotions, tolerate moments of distress, communicate effectively, and mindfully stay within the present moment. My ideal client would like to learn these skills in order to manifest their ideal life and be the best version of themselves.
I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker since 2019, and I have experience supporting young adults and adults with concerns such as addictions, substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, life transitions, relationship/ family issues, and anger management. My ideal client would like to resolve these issues by empowering themselves to learn how to counter negative thoughts, regulate emotions, tolerate moments of distress, communicate effectively, and mindfully stay within the present moment. My ideal client would like to learn these skills in order to manifest their ideal life and be the best version of themselves.
![Photo of Kasandra Hogue - Transformation Life Counseling, LLC, MSSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a6bc2441-9a76-44f0-94f6-ffdb8573a68d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Transformation Life Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Jeffersonville, IN 47130
I provide thorough, empathetic, and professional therapeutic services with a specialization in anxiety, depression, childhood trauma, domestic violence, substance use and suicidal ideation.
Do you feel like life is overwhelming? Battling negative or intrusive thoughts rehearsing through your mind repeatedly? Dealing with complex relationship issues? Having uncontrollable feelings that cause a negative impact on your life or others around you? Unprocessed grief or loss? Looking for direction? Let me partner with you to navigate through life’s most difficult or challenging moments. We will begin the journey of healing together in a safe and supportive environment to transform your life!
I provide thorough, empathetic, and professional therapeutic services with a specialization in anxiety, depression, childhood trauma, domestic violence, substance use and suicidal ideation.
Do you feel like life is overwhelming? Battling negative or intrusive thoughts rehearsing through your mind repeatedly? Dealing with complex relationship issues? Having uncontrollable feelings that cause a negative impact on your life or others around you? Unprocessed grief or loss? Looking for direction? Let me partner with you to navigate through life’s most difficult or challenging moments. We will begin the journey of healing together in a safe and supportive environment to transform your life!
See more therapy options for Shelbyville
Nearby Substance Use Therapists Searches for Shelbyville
- Castleton
- Columbus
- Fishers
- Fortville
- Franklin
- Greenfield
- Greenwood
- Indianapolis
- McCordsville
- Mooresville
- Pendleton
- Rushville
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.