Substance Use Therapists in Birmingham, MI

Photo of David Sklar, PhD, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
David Sklar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, ACSW
Verified Verified
Birmingham, MI 48009
Welcome. I have been at this almost forty years. Enjoy it now more then ever. Over the years I believe I have developed some skill working with Adolescent and families, and those experiencing problems with Substance Use and Abuse. I Started working with Adolescents and Families in residential treatment, schools and hospitals. Two years in a Methadone Clinic provided an early glimpse into Opiate addiction. A mid-life descent into Alcoholism provided a very personal understanding of addiction and recovery. I know that recovery can occur both within and outside the AA model.
Welcome. I have been at this almost forty years. Enjoy it now more then ever. Over the years I believe I have developed some skill working with Adolescent and families, and those experiencing problems with Substance Use and Abuse. I Started working with Adolescents and Families in residential treatment, schools and hospitals. Two years in a Methadone Clinic provided an early glimpse into Opiate addiction. A mid-life descent into Alcoholism provided a very personal understanding of addiction and recovery. I know that recovery can occur both within and outside the AA model.
(248) 466-3157 View (248) 466-3157
Photo of Sarah Kuretzky, MA, MEd, LLC, SCL, CHHC, Counselor
Sarah Kuretzky
Counselor, MA, MEd, LLC, SCL, CHHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, MI 48009
I specialize in individual and couples therapy working with adolescents and adults. Offering unique and healthy cognitive alternatives. I perform traditional talk therapy, but often supplement that with creative art modalities. I also do mindfulness meditation, imagery and yoga. I specialize in disordered eating, substance use, women's issues, self-esteem building, depression, anxiety, relationship concerns, parenting issues, grief and loss, and life transitions.
I specialize in individual and couples therapy working with adolescents and adults. Offering unique and healthy cognitive alternatives. I perform traditional talk therapy, but often supplement that with creative art modalities. I also do mindfulness meditation, imagery and yoga. I specialize in disordered eating, substance use, women's issues, self-esteem building, depression, anxiety, relationship concerns, parenting issues, grief and loss, and life transitions.
(248) 927-1200 View (248) 927-1200
Photo of Matthew Kramer, MA, LPCC, LLPC
Matthew Kramer
Limited License Counselor, MA, LPCC, LLPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Birmingham, MI 48009
Do you work in a high stress role? Are you extremely successful/advanced in certain areas, but struggling in others (home life, stress, anxiety, personal/professional challenges, substance use, etc.)? I get it. You are pressured to perform, succeed, and deliver, and it’s hard to let your guard down. I specialize in working with high-performing professionals and offer the utmost discretion and confidentiality as well as a concierge approach. I attend to the needs of extremely time-limited individuals and help you move from surviving to thriving in both the short and long term.
Do you work in a high stress role? Are you extremely successful/advanced in certain areas, but struggling in others (home life, stress, anxiety, personal/professional challenges, substance use, etc.)? I get it. You are pressured to perform, succeed, and deliver, and it’s hard to let your guard down. I specialize in working with high-performing professionals and offer the utmost discretion and confidentiality as well as a concierge approach. I attend to the needs of extremely time-limited individuals and help you move from surviving to thriving in both the short and long term.
(248) 600-4963 View (248) 600-4963
Photo of David J Garvelink, MA, LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
David J Garvelink
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Verified Verified
Birmingham, MI 48009
DAVID GARVELINK, MA, LLP, CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST; has been in practice as a MA Clinical Psychologist for +35 years treating adolescents and adults in respect to an array of diagnostic concerns. He is best known for his work with Substance Use Disorders (and as owner/facilitator of the Segue to Recovery Sober Living 3/4 House in Birmingham, MI) and also for his work treating ADHD, Anxiety, Depressive, ADHD, Adjustment and Explosive Disorders with an approach that is predominantly Cognitive/Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy (REBT) based. David is also an evaluator & provider for the Health Professionals Recovery Program (HPRP)
DAVID GARVELINK, MA, LLP, CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST; has been in practice as a MA Clinical Psychologist for +35 years treating adolescents and adults in respect to an array of diagnostic concerns. He is best known for his work with Substance Use Disorders (and as owner/facilitator of the Segue to Recovery Sober Living 3/4 House in Birmingham, MI) and also for his work treating ADHD, Anxiety, Depressive, ADHD, Adjustment and Explosive Disorders with an approach that is predominantly Cognitive/Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy (REBT) based. David is also an evaluator & provider for the Health Professionals Recovery Program (HPRP)
(248) 731-5875 View (248) 731-5875
Photo of Shoshana Katz, PhD, LP, Psychologist
Shoshana Katz
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Birmingham, MI 48009
I work with people who are experiencing symptoms of depression, generalized anxiety, social anxiety, panic attacks, post-traumatic stress, substance use, ADHD, insomnia, and chronic pain.
If sadness, worry, stress, chronic pain, insomnia, and/or difficulty concentrating is holding you back from getting what you want out of life, it is time to seek help. These symptoms can sometimes slow down, or even prevent, success in school, at work, and with relationships. I can help you understand how your thought and behavior patterns may be contributing to your symptoms, and how to change them so you can feel better. Your treatment plan and your goals are up to you; you decide what you want to change and how you'd like me to help you make those changes.
I work with people who are experiencing symptoms of depression, generalized anxiety, social anxiety, panic attacks, post-traumatic stress, substance use, ADHD, insomnia, and chronic pain.
If sadness, worry, stress, chronic pain, insomnia, and/or difficulty concentrating is holding you back from getting what you want out of life, it is time to seek help. These symptoms can sometimes slow down, or even prevent, success in school, at work, and with relationships. I can help you understand how your thought and behavior patterns may be contributing to your symptoms, and how to change them so you can feel better. Your treatment plan and your goals are up to you; you decide what you want to change and how you'd like me to help you make those changes.
(248) 487-9479 View (248) 487-9479
Photo of Paul Kowalski, MSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Paul Kowalski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Birmingham, MI 48009
I have extensive experience working with adults and youth involved in the foster care system, dealing with challenges related to abuse, loss, anger management, substance use, as well as communication and parenting issues.
Life presents all of us with challenges and difficulties. Some are obvious, some less so. Sometimes we only know that we're struggling without being able to put our finger on why that is. I don't believe you need all the answers to start your journey to overcome the obstacles that you face. The starting point is the desire to improve your relationships, family, and career. Therapy provides a supportive environment where you can learn to cope with existing distress and learn to address the needs that will help increase the quality of your life and relationships.
I have extensive experience working with adults and youth involved in the foster care system, dealing with challenges related to abuse, loss, anger management, substance use, as well as communication and parenting issues.
Life presents all of us with challenges and difficulties. Some are obvious, some less so. Sometimes we only know that we're struggling without being able to put our finger on why that is. I don't believe you need all the answers to start your journey to overcome the obstacles that you face. The starting point is the desire to improve your relationships, family, and career. Therapy provides a supportive environment where you can learn to cope with existing distress and learn to address the needs that will help increase the quality of your life and relationships.
(313) 327-3311 View (313) 327-3311
Photo of Amy Baker Dennis, PhD, LP, FAED, FACBT, Psychologist
Amy Baker Dennis
Psychologist, PhD, LP, FAED, FACBT
Verified Verified
Birmingham, MI 48009  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
See "Eating Disorders, Addictions and Substance Use Disorders:Research, Clinical and Treatment Perspectives" Springer (2014).
I have been a practicing clinical psychologist for over 40 years and have specialized in the treatment of eating disorders for the past 35 years. I have maintained a practice in the Detroit area since 1988. Although I maintain a generalized (mixed) practice, I find treating individuals that are struggling with eating disorders a challenging and rewarding endeavor. The behaviors of eating disordered individuals are very similar but the issues behind the disorder are unique to each person.
See "Eating Disorders, Addictions and Substance Use Disorders:Research, Clinical and Treatment Perspectives" Springer (2014).
I have been a practicing clinical psychologist for over 40 years and have specialized in the treatment of eating disorders for the past 35 years. I have maintained a practice in the Detroit area since 1988. Although I maintain a generalized (mixed) practice, I find treating individuals that are struggling with eating disorders a challenging and rewarding endeavor. The behaviors of eating disordered individuals are very similar but the issues behind the disorder are unique to each person.
(248) 277-5826 View (248) 277-5826
Photo of Wendy A Case - Wendy Case/Arrow Arts Psychotherapy, LLC, LPC, ATR-BC, CAADC, MAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Wendy Case/Arrow Arts Psychotherapy, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR-BC, CAADC, MAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, MI 48009
Waitlist for new clients
I am also an EMDR practitioner and carry state/national licenses in substance use disorder.
No one knows your life better than you. But when stress, anxiety and fear overwhelm the brain and body, we can become blocked from our own best solutions. When this happens, it can negatively impact our lives and relationships and compromise our ability to cope effectively. Taking the first step toward positive change often means trusting a professional to help guide you toward solutions that resonate with your personal strengths, goals and abilities. I use humor, compassion and comprehensive clinical understanding to bring focus to how our experiences have shaped us - and what we can do to adapt, change, and thrive.
I am also an EMDR practitioner and carry state/national licenses in substance use disorder.
No one knows your life better than you. But when stress, anxiety and fear overwhelm the brain and body, we can become blocked from our own best solutions. When this happens, it can negatively impact our lives and relationships and compromise our ability to cope effectively. Taking the first step toward positive change often means trusting a professional to help guide you toward solutions that resonate with your personal strengths, goals and abilities. I use humor, compassion and comprehensive clinical understanding to bring focus to how our experiences have shaped us - and what we can do to adapt, change, and thrive.
(248) 955-5576 View (248) 955-5576
Photo of Steven Nakisher, PsyD, Psychologist
Steven Nakisher
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Birmingham, MI 48009  (Online Only)
Nakisher's creative style helps him work well with people struggling with various issues including personal/relationship/work dissatisfaction, anxiety, depression, substance use concerns, ADHD, disordered eating and feeling stuck in life.
Dr. Steven Nakisher offers a practical approach in a supportive, yet challenging atmosphere to help clients gain insight, make lasting changes in life and "get out your own way". With over 25 years of experience, he works particularly well with people who have previously experienced therapy as unhelpful. Dr. Nakisher also works a business consultant to major corporations, improving business through human capital.
Nakisher's creative style helps him work well with people struggling with various issues including personal/relationship/work dissatisfaction, anxiety, depression, substance use concerns, ADHD, disordered eating and feeling stuck in life.
Dr. Steven Nakisher offers a practical approach in a supportive, yet challenging atmosphere to help clients gain insight, make lasting changes in life and "get out your own way". With over 25 years of experience, he works particularly well with people who have previously experienced therapy as unhelpful. Dr. Nakisher also works a business consultant to major corporations, improving business through human capital.
(312) 626-5648 View (312) 626-5648
Photo of Dr. Susie Gross, LP, ICAADC, Psychologist
Dr. Susie Gross
Psychologist, LP, ICAADC
Verified Verified
Birmingham, MI 48009
As a licensed clinical psychologist and interventionist, I specialize in high risk teens and adults struggling with anxiety, alcohol, substance abuse, and depression. I have extensive experience diagnosing and treating complex psychological disorders. For many, I am the "last stop" after failed attempts at therapy and treatment. I have helped to repair a multitude of families and rewrite stories of despair into stories of hope.
As a licensed clinical psychologist and interventionist, I specialize in high risk teens and adults struggling with anxiety, alcohol, substance abuse, and depression. I have extensive experience diagnosing and treating complex psychological disorders. For many, I am the "last stop" after failed attempts at therapy and treatment. I have helped to repair a multitude of families and rewrite stories of despair into stories of hope.
(248) 817-8325 View (248) 817-8325
Photo of Eric M Pihlgren - Aspen Behavioral Health, PC, PhD, LP, Psychologist
Aspen Behavioral Health, PC
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Birmingham, MI 48009
What do patients say about Eric Pihlgren, PhD, owner of Aspen Behavioral Health, PC? Here are some comments from online reviews: "Very dedicated and thorough. Effectively teaches the methods of DBT"..."He made me feel comfortable and knew so much about the issues I needed help with...best Psychologist in Oakland County!!!"..."He's really good at what he does." Dr. Pihlgren is a fully-licensed Clinical Psychologist specializing in the treatment of adolescents and adults with moderate to severe psychological disorders. Through his extensive educational, training and work experience, Dr. Pihlgren is uniquely qualified to provide psychotherapy to treat a broad range of problems.
What do patients say about Eric Pihlgren, PhD, owner of Aspen Behavioral Health, PC? Here are some comments from online reviews: "Very dedicated and thorough. Effectively teaches the methods of DBT"..."He made me feel comfortable and knew so much about the issues I needed help with...best Psychologist in Oakland County!!!"..."He's really good at what he does." Dr. Pihlgren is a fully-licensed Clinical Psychologist specializing in the treatment of adolescents and adults with moderate to severe psychological disorders. Through his extensive educational, training and work experience, Dr. Pihlgren is uniquely qualified to provide psychotherapy to treat a broad range of problems.
(248) 565-3198 View (248) 565-3198
Photo of Katie Dines, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katie Dines
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, MI 48009  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with dealing with the storms of life? Please know - you are not alone! Many of us experience challenges, yet oftentimes it's difficult to find a safe person and space to express these concerns without being judged. Life changes constantly! Every day events leave you feeling overwhelmed, drained and unmotivated. Even every day activities seem to be extremely difficult. Constant demands of family, work and relationships are stressful, and you know it’s time to make some changes. Losses of all kinds (the loss of a loved one, job, or relationship), can trigger a mirage of emotions or feelings of lack of control.
Are you struggling with dealing with the storms of life? Please know - you are not alone! Many of us experience challenges, yet oftentimes it's difficult to find a safe person and space to express these concerns without being judged. Life changes constantly! Every day events leave you feeling overwhelmed, drained and unmotivated. Even every day activities seem to be extremely difficult. Constant demands of family, work and relationships are stressful, and you know it’s time to make some changes. Losses of all kinds (the loss of a loved one, job, or relationship), can trigger a mirage of emotions or feelings of lack of control.
(248) 780-1898 View (248) 780-1898
Photo of April Seay Brown, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
April Seay Brown
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, MI 48009  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
You hold yourself to a higher standard yet, lately seem to have lost focus and struggle to maintain your motivation. You find yourself starting to believe the small voice in the back of your head stating that you are not good enough. You go to lengths to take great care of others, however, do not extend the same love and care to yourself. You put on a happy face and pretend that all is well, however, often can feel very much alone and anxious. You may feel consumed by: sadness, fear, anger or hopelessness; and even the simplest of tasks seems overwhelming. You long to get back to your old self and find joy and meaning in life.
You hold yourself to a higher standard yet, lately seem to have lost focus and struggle to maintain your motivation. You find yourself starting to believe the small voice in the back of your head stating that you are not good enough. You go to lengths to take great care of others, however, do not extend the same love and care to yourself. You put on a happy face and pretend that all is well, however, often can feel very much alone and anxious. You may feel consumed by: sadness, fear, anger or hopelessness; and even the simplest of tasks seems overwhelming. You long to get back to your old self and find joy and meaning in life.
(313) 800-8791 View (313) 800-8791
Photo of Ilona L Tobin, EdD, LP, LMFT, Psychologist
Ilona L Tobin
Psychologist, EdD, LP, LMFT
Verified Verified
Birmingham, MI 48009
Are you suffering from sexual addiction(e.g porn, escort/prostitute addiction), sexual dysfunction (e.g. Impotence, premature ejaculation, low sexual desire), infidelity, or substance abuse? Don't let these problems rob ypu of the love and intimacy that you deserve. If you are feeling isolated and disconnected from those you love and care about, call me for an appointment so we can eliminate the loneliness and shame you are experiencing.
Are you suffering from sexual addiction(e.g porn, escort/prostitute addiction), sexual dysfunction (e.g. Impotence, premature ejaculation, low sexual desire), infidelity, or substance abuse? Don't let these problems rob ypu of the love and intimacy that you deserve. If you are feeling isolated and disconnected from those you love and care about, call me for an appointment so we can eliminate the loneliness and shame you are experiencing.
(248) 792-9298 View (248) 792-9298
Photo of Dr. Kelly Tatarelli-Mullins, LMSW , PsyD, LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Dr. Kelly Tatarelli-Mullins
Limited Licensed Psychologist, LMSW , PsyD, LLP
Not Verified Not Verified
Birmingham, MI 48009  (Online Only)
Welcome, I'm Dr. Kelly. I am a welcoming, approachable, and compassionate psychologist whose focus is to help individuals find their way to their healthiest version of self, no matter what the obstacles. I use a comprehensive/integrative therapeutic coaching approach to help individuals overcome barriers, change self-destructive behaviors, resolve painful emotions, find effective coping strategies, and improve relationships, most importantly with self.
Welcome, I'm Dr. Kelly. I am a welcoming, approachable, and compassionate psychologist whose focus is to help individuals find their way to their healthiest version of self, no matter what the obstacles. I use a comprehensive/integrative therapeutic coaching approach to help individuals overcome barriers, change self-destructive behaviors, resolve painful emotions, find effective coping strategies, and improve relationships, most importantly with self.
(810) 216-5156 View (810) 216-5156
Photo of Katherine Kezelian, LMSW, ACSW, CAADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katherine Kezelian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, ACSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Birmingham, MI 48009
Waitlist for new clients
It's hard to face all of life's challenges alone. Maybe you feel like there is no one you can talk to, or no one who would understand what you are going through. Maybe you’ve been dealing with this for a few weeks, or maybe it’s been years of struggle. Whatever your circumstances may be, I’m glad you are reaching out. I’m happy to help you. I truly believe that YOU can be your own superhero, and I can help you discover how to empower yourself.
It's hard to face all of life's challenges alone. Maybe you feel like there is no one you can talk to, or no one who would understand what you are going through. Maybe you’ve been dealing with this for a few weeks, or maybe it’s been years of struggle. Whatever your circumstances may be, I’m glad you are reaching out. I’m happy to help you. I truly believe that YOU can be your own superhero, and I can help you discover how to empower yourself.
(248) 463-8263 View (248) 463-8263
Photo of Desiree Messina, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Desiree Messina
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Birmingham, MI 48009  (Online Only)
Perhaps you're down or anxious - maybe you're unsure about the future of a relationship, or just feel that you aren't living the life you were meant to lead. You could be struggling with food and body image or maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Whatever your needs may be, I am here to offer support. Therapy is a process of growth and self-discovery, and in my sessions I promote behavioral transformation by encouraging a positive and undefeated outlook and the adoption of new attitudes and reactions. I have the tools and professional experience to help you get back on track.
Perhaps you're down or anxious - maybe you're unsure about the future of a relationship, or just feel that you aren't living the life you were meant to lead. You could be struggling with food and body image or maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Whatever your needs may be, I am here to offer support. Therapy is a process of growth and self-discovery, and in my sessions I promote behavioral transformation by encouraging a positive and undefeated outlook and the adoption of new attitudes and reactions. I have the tools and professional experience to help you get back on track.
(989) 520-1100 View (989) 520-1100
Photo of Jaime Collins, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jaime Collins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Birmingham, MI 48009  (Online Only)
Depression can feel like living in a deep, dark hole. You may have no energy, no hope that things will improve. You may be hearing some of the lies that depression tells us; it will never get better, you've already tried everything, why bother, you're always going to feel this way. Depression may tell you that you aren't strong enough to make changes in your life. Depression can drain the joy out of a sunny day, leaving you feeling hopeless and exhausted. You may be wondering how everyone else has it all sorted, and believe that if you were just a better person, you'd be ok.
Depression can feel like living in a deep, dark hole. You may have no energy, no hope that things will improve. You may be hearing some of the lies that depression tells us; it will never get better, you've already tried everything, why bother, you're always going to feel this way. Depression may tell you that you aren't strong enough to make changes in your life. Depression can drain the joy out of a sunny day, leaving you feeling hopeless and exhausted. You may be wondering how everyone else has it all sorted, and believe that if you were just a better person, you'd be ok.
(248) 965-4790 View (248) 965-4790
Photo of Rick Mastroianni, LMSW, CAADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rick Mastroianni
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
Birmingham, MI 48009  (Online Only)
I specialize in couples counseling, substance abuse, court-ordered therapy, anxiety, depression, teen issues, life transitions, and self-esteem. We all have rough patches from time to time and can use an impartial person to help get us back on track, and that is what I can do for my clients. Committed relationships can be very challenging! Learn how to build a strong foundation of love, forgiveness, compromise, and understanding. I help couples who struggle with cyclical conflict, infidelity/damaged trust, miscommunication, parenting conflicts, life-stressors, disconnection, and other relationship issues.
I specialize in couples counseling, substance abuse, court-ordered therapy, anxiety, depression, teen issues, life transitions, and self-esteem. We all have rough patches from time to time and can use an impartial person to help get us back on track, and that is what I can do for my clients. Committed relationships can be very challenging! Learn how to build a strong foundation of love, forgiveness, compromise, and understanding. I help couples who struggle with cyclical conflict, infidelity/damaged trust, miscommunication, parenting conflicts, life-stressors, disconnection, and other relationship issues.
(248) 963-6114 View (248) 963-6114
Photo of Lori Bondalapati, MA, LPC, CAADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lori Bondalapati
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CAADC
Verified Verified
Birmingham, MI 48009
You're looking for better coping and fulfillment in your life. A safe space to process, heal and grow from what you go through. You want less anxiety. A balanced mind. A healthy lifestyle. I help people through the bumps on the road to “adulting”. From adapting to social life changes to new life skills. Tame chronic self-judgement, mood swings, & motivation issues. Learn how to cope with feeling overwhelmed and lost. Set boundaries and limit toxic relationships. Build true self-care. I also specialize in substance abuse and addiction. (Whether you are sober-curious, brand new to sobriety or in long-term recover.)
You're looking for better coping and fulfillment in your life. A safe space to process, heal and grow from what you go through. You want less anxiety. A balanced mind. A healthy lifestyle. I help people through the bumps on the road to “adulting”. From adapting to social life changes to new life skills. Tame chronic self-judgement, mood swings, & motivation issues. Learn how to cope with feeling overwhelmed and lost. Set boundaries and limit toxic relationships. Build true self-care. I also specialize in substance abuse and addiction. (Whether you are sober-curious, brand new to sobriety or in long-term recover.)
(734) 666-9685 View (734) 666-9685
1
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.