Substance Use Therapists in West Saint Paul, MN

Photo of Daniel Paul Watts, BSW, LSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Daniel Paul Watts
Pre-Licensed Professional, BSW, LSW
Verified Verified
West Saint Paul, MN 55118
' I am dedicated to inventive ways to bond, address depression, anxiety, trauma, queer integrity, substance use, and the grief and loss associated with many stages in life.
I have five years of experience working with adults experiencing mental health and substance use concerns. Completing my Master of Social Work degree, I collaborate with those who are struggling in multiple stages of life. Let's bring fulfillment back to Your present Self. Trauma, depression, anxiety, coming out or gender-curious, loss of a loved one, of a dream, borderline personality responses... these all affect how we create our distinct identity, connect with others, and relish intimacy. Frequently daunting to navigate, together we will.
' I am dedicated to inventive ways to bond, address depression, anxiety, trauma, queer integrity, substance use, and the grief and loss associated with many stages in life.
I have five years of experience working with adults experiencing mental health and substance use concerns. Completing my Master of Social Work degree, I collaborate with those who are struggling in multiple stages of life. Let's bring fulfillment back to Your present Self. Trauma, depression, anxiety, coming out or gender-curious, loss of a loved one, of a dream, borderline personality responses... these all affect how we create our distinct identity, connect with others, and relish intimacy. Frequently daunting to navigate, together we will.
(651) 409-6102 View (651) 409-6102
Photo of Anton Evans, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Anton Evans
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Saint Paul, MN 55118
I enjoy working with clients that are fed up with constant feelings of dissatisfaction in life and are ready to discover new ways of thinking and being. The clients that I work with are from many different walks of life. They struggle with issues such as substance use, relationship problems, identity issues, depression, anxiety, life stressors and fears about the future. I enjoy working with clients to challenge beliefs about their reality and take control of their lives.
I enjoy working with clients that are fed up with constant feelings of dissatisfaction in life and are ready to discover new ways of thinking and being. The clients that I work with are from many different walks of life. They struggle with issues such as substance use, relationship problems, identity issues, depression, anxiety, life stressors and fears about the future. I enjoy working with clients to challenge beliefs about their reality and take control of their lives.
(651) 318-4688 View (651) 318-4688
Photo of Tara Marshall - NuVyb Consulting, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
NuVyb Consulting
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Saint Paul, MN 55118
Hurting? Feeling Alone? Stressed out? Uncertain about the future? Is the weight of day to day life feeling unbearable right now? Daily ongoing stress can have a negative impact on your health and well-being. It may be difficult to believe that life can be good again when we are facing so many unknowns. Let me hold it with you. . . traumatic events, losing people and connections, parenting challenges or simply questioning parts of life that don’t make sense. It is helpful to have a trusted person to openly talk to, sort out conflicting emotions, gain insight, and develop a plan to live your desired life again.
Hurting? Feeling Alone? Stressed out? Uncertain about the future? Is the weight of day to day life feeling unbearable right now? Daily ongoing stress can have a negative impact on your health and well-being. It may be difficult to believe that life can be good again when we are facing so many unknowns. Let me hold it with you. . . traumatic events, losing people and connections, parenting challenges or simply questioning parts of life that don’t make sense. It is helpful to have a trusted person to openly talk to, sort out conflicting emotions, gain insight, and develop a plan to live your desired life again.
(612) 888-8056 View (612) 888-8056
Photo of Peter Jason Meilahn, MA, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Peter Jason Meilahn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
West Saint Paul, MN 55118
My clients can change anxiety, ADHD, autism, or pain with live heart and brain feedback called biofeedback or neurofeedback in online visits. Clients control music volume on their phones with their calm attention levels with free biofeedback equipment I provide. It is easy mindfulness therapy for kids and adults. It is proven to work as well as medication for anxiety, ADHD, and pain. I have years of experience as a therapist, and have taught clinicians at The University of MN Medical Center and elsewhere. Insurance covers this service. To schedule a 20 minute call, click here: https://neurotherapy.intakeq.com/booking
My clients can change anxiety, ADHD, autism, or pain with live heart and brain feedback called biofeedback or neurofeedback in online visits. Clients control music volume on their phones with their calm attention levels with free biofeedback equipment I provide. It is easy mindfulness therapy for kids and adults. It is proven to work as well as medication for anxiety, ADHD, and pain. I have years of experience as a therapist, and have taught clinicians at The University of MN Medical Center and elsewhere. Insurance covers this service. To schedule a 20 minute call, click here: https://neurotherapy.intakeq.com/booking
(651) 299-6579 View (651) 299-6579
Photo of Mike A Arieta, MSW, LICSW, LCSW, LISW, PACC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mike A Arieta
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW, LISW, PACC
Verified Verified
West Saint Paul, MN 55118
My partner Kristin Lindgren and I started New Path Counseling LLC to provide clinical social work services and educational assistance. I provide the clinical social work services focusing on work with adults, young adults, teens and others. I provide services based on a trauma informed approach and focus on adjustment disorder, depression, shame and guilt along with life transitions. I also provide Employee Assistance Program Services, Life Coaching and career counseling. You can also connect with me at: https://www.betterhelp.com/michael-arieta/
My partner Kristin Lindgren and I started New Path Counseling LLC to provide clinical social work services and educational assistance. I provide the clinical social work services focusing on work with adults, young adults, teens and others. I provide services based on a trauma informed approach and focus on adjustment disorder, depression, shame and guilt along with life transitions. I also provide Employee Assistance Program Services, Life Coaching and career counseling. You can also connect with me at: https://www.betterhelp.com/michael-arieta/
(612) 294-9896 View (612) 294-9896
Photo of Kristen Schmidt-Shay, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristen Schmidt-Shay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
West Saint Paul, MN 55118
I have a strong interest in working with people who have a history of trauma and mood disorders. I use a variety of techniques especially tailored to the individual including Dialectical Behavior Therapy, EMDR, and exposure therapy, as well as mindfulness and cognitive techniques (CBT). I am also certified by the Linehan Board for Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
I have a strong interest in working with people who have a history of trauma and mood disorders. I use a variety of techniques especially tailored to the individual including Dialectical Behavior Therapy, EMDR, and exposure therapy, as well as mindfulness and cognitive techniques (CBT). I am also certified by the Linehan Board for Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
(651) 450-0860 View (651) 450-0860

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Morgan Phillips,  MSW, LICSW, LADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Morgan Phillips
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LADC
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55105
I have experience working with individuals who are experiencing issues related to trauma, substance use, depression/anxiety, and life changes.
Thanks for visiting my profile. Are you struggling to feel connected to yourself and those around you? Feeling depressed, anxious, or lost? I would love to hold space with you while you explore the inner workings of all things related to you. I believe that as human beings, everything we do is relational, therefore, I believe therapy offers the opportunity to heal with another person being present. I have been working as a clinical social worker for the past 12 years. I currently offer telehealth services in Minnesota and Wisconsin to individuals 18 and older.
I have experience working with individuals who are experiencing issues related to trauma, substance use, depression/anxiety, and life changes.
Thanks for visiting my profile. Are you struggling to feel connected to yourself and those around you? Feeling depressed, anxious, or lost? I would love to hold space with you while you explore the inner workings of all things related to you. I believe that as human beings, everything we do is relational, therefore, I believe therapy offers the opportunity to heal with another person being present. I have been working as a clinical social worker for the past 12 years. I currently offer telehealth services in Minnesota and Wisconsin to individuals 18 and older.
(651) 565-6625 View (651) 565-6625
Photo of Adam Wick, MA, LPC, LADC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Adam Wick
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LADC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55101
Areas of Expertise: sex addiction, pornography addiction, substance use addiction, therapy for men in long-term recovery.
As men, therapy is often perceived as weak, emasculating, soft, or unnecessary. We often feel pressure from family and employers that continues to mount and build over time. We notice our behaviors changing while the latent emotions, pressure, and stress begin to build. Shame, fear, and anger build and become unmanageable. Substance use or compulsive behaviors begin to surface without us recognizing it and evolve in to a inescapable cycle.
Areas of Expertise: sex addiction, pornography addiction, substance use addiction, therapy for men in long-term recovery.
As men, therapy is often perceived as weak, emasculating, soft, or unnecessary. We often feel pressure from family and employers that continues to mount and build over time. We notice our behaviors changing while the latent emotions, pressure, and stress begin to build. Shame, fear, and anger build and become unmanageable. Substance use or compulsive behaviors begin to surface without us recognizing it and evolve in to a inescapable cycle.
(763) 297-2876 View (763) 297-2876
Photo of Pamela Graber, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Pamela Graber
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55101  (Online Only)
I work with individuals who have experienced all forms of trauma, struggle with anxiety, substance use disorders, and PTSD.
We have multiple clinicians with openings. I am currently offering teletherapy. I work with individuals, couples, and families to help identify goals, create a plan, and help access the client's own strengths to find solutions. If your relationship is in pain, you and all family members may feel the impact. Whether you wish to learn how to increase a positive connection or repair a serious tear in that relationship, I will create a safe environment for you to resolve your differences, look at underlying causes of difficulties, and learn healthier and less reactive ways of relating to one another.
I work with individuals who have experienced all forms of trauma, struggle with anxiety, substance use disorders, and PTSD.
We have multiple clinicians with openings. I am currently offering teletherapy. I work with individuals, couples, and families to help identify goals, create a plan, and help access the client's own strengths to find solutions. If your relationship is in pain, you and all family members may feel the impact. Whether you wish to learn how to increase a positive connection or repair a serious tear in that relationship, I will create a safe environment for you to resolve your differences, look at underlying causes of difficulties, and learn healthier and less reactive ways of relating to one another.
(651) 304-4421 View (651) 304-4421
Photo of Michaelene Colestock - ANEW Health and Wellness Clinic, MA, LPCC, LADC, Counselor
ANEW Health and Wellness Clinic
Counselor, MA, LPCC, LADC
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55106
I specialize in supporting adult individuals dealing with substance use disorders, relationship conflicts, stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, emotion dysregulation, and more.
“We believe that women can start their lives anew!” Our team of professionals have extensive knowledge in providing trauma-responsive and chemical health outpatient individual and group therapy. ANEW Chemical Health Services is proud to be serving women, children and their families! Although we specialize in serving women and children, we'd love to help any individual looking for help. Our brand new, inviting and calming, beautiful space is a great place to start ANEW!
I specialize in supporting adult individuals dealing with substance use disorders, relationship conflicts, stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, emotion dysregulation, and more.
“We believe that women can start their lives anew!” Our team of professionals have extensive knowledge in providing trauma-responsive and chemical health outpatient individual and group therapy. ANEW Chemical Health Services is proud to be serving women, children and their families! Although we specialize in serving women and children, we'd love to help any individual looking for help. Our brand new, inviting and calming, beautiful space is a great place to start ANEW!
(651) 401-6185 View (651) 401-6185
Photo of Jo Johnstone, LADC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jo Johnstone
Pre-Licensed Professional, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55101
I currently have openings for individuals and couples impacted by trauma, anxiety, neurodivergence, bipolar and schizophrenia spectrum disorders, and/or substance use. I prioritize intakes for members of the LGBTQIA+ community who are seeking a safe space to process trauma and explore identity. Trauma, anxiety, and the pressure of meeting societal expectations can impact every area of our lives. Left unaddressed, these impacts may leave us feeling exhausted, shameful, and hopeless. In our work together, you can expect a safe, nonjudgmental space to unpack, address, and develop skills to better manage these stressors.
I currently have openings for individuals and couples impacted by trauma, anxiety, neurodivergence, bipolar and schizophrenia spectrum disorders, and/or substance use. I prioritize intakes for members of the LGBTQIA+ community who are seeking a safe space to process trauma and explore identity. Trauma, anxiety, and the pressure of meeting societal expectations can impact every area of our lives. Left unaddressed, these impacts may leave us feeling exhausted, shameful, and hopeless. In our work together, you can expect a safe, nonjudgmental space to unpack, address, and develop skills to better manage these stressors.
(952) 522-3614 View (952) 522-3614
Photo of Scott Brownlee, LPCC, LADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Scott Brownlee
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55102
My clinical expertise is in helping people who have substance use and/or co-occurring mental health disorders.
Have you been wondering if you need to make a change to your drinking or substance use, but don’t feel like AA or rehab is a good fit? Have you been searching for alternatives, but keep running into programs that all sound the same? If so, I offer a fresh perspective on how to make lasting changes in these areas.
My clinical expertise is in helping people who have substance use and/or co-occurring mental health disorders.
Have you been wondering if you need to make a change to your drinking or substance use, but don’t feel like AA or rehab is a good fit? Have you been searching for alternatives, but keep running into programs that all sound the same? If so, I offer a fresh perspective on how to make lasting changes in these areas.
(651) 505-8259 View (651) 505-8259
Photo of Amili Spaeth, MSW, LGSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Amili Spaeth
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55103
Waitlist for new clients
I support individuals through grief, queer identity exploration, substance use, non-traditional relationships, anxiety, OCD, suicidality, and self-harm, with a focus on the social contexts and systemic oppression shaping their experiences.
Guided by a belief in connection and collaboration, I work in partnership with individuals from a place of curiosity, presence, and compassion. Using a trauma- and attachment-informed, body-based approach, I tailor therapy to each client, drawing from Integrative Mindfulness, Internal Family Systems, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. By blending somatic techniques with cognitive and emotional frameworks, I aim to foster holistic awareness, strengthen mind-body-spirit connection, and create spaces where clients feel seen, heard, and empowered to heal.
I support individuals through grief, queer identity exploration, substance use, non-traditional relationships, anxiety, OCD, suicidality, and self-harm, with a focus on the social contexts and systemic oppression shaping their experiences.
Guided by a belief in connection and collaboration, I work in partnership with individuals from a place of curiosity, presence, and compassion. Using a trauma- and attachment-informed, body-based approach, I tailor therapy to each client, drawing from Integrative Mindfulness, Internal Family Systems, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. By blending somatic techniques with cognitive and emotional frameworks, I aim to foster holistic awareness, strengthen mind-body-spirit connection, and create spaces where clients feel seen, heard, and empowered to heal.
View
Photo of Jordan Kirsch, MS, LADC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Jordan Kirsch
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55102
Struggling with mental health concerns, relationship issues or substance use/addiction? Whether you are seeking therapy for yourself, your family or a coupled partnership, I use a person centered approach and empathetic understanding walking with you through the difficulty. An important aspect in my approach to change is motivational interviewing, exploring what your desired life might look like if things were different. Together we set goals and develop strategies to get you there.
Struggling with mental health concerns, relationship issues or substance use/addiction? Whether you are seeking therapy for yourself, your family or a coupled partnership, I use a person centered approach and empathetic understanding walking with you through the difficulty. An important aspect in my approach to change is motivational interviewing, exploring what your desired life might look like if things were different. Together we set goals and develop strategies to get you there.
(651) 424-1749 View (651) 424-1749
Photo of Talia Thompson, LADC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Talia Thompson
Pre-Licensed Professional, LADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55101
My special area of interest is trauma, PTSD, C-PTSD, and substance use.
I am Currently only accepting clients for Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy. Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) is the use of prescribed doses of ketamine, the drug, as an adjunct to psychotherapy sessions. KAP shows significant potential in treating mental disorders such as treatment-resistant depression (TRD), post-traumatic stress disorder, and other anxiety disorders.
My special area of interest is trauma, PTSD, C-PTSD, and substance use.
I am Currently only accepting clients for Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy. Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) is the use of prescribed doses of ketamine, the drug, as an adjunct to psychotherapy sessions. KAP shows significant potential in treating mental disorders such as treatment-resistant depression (TRD), post-traumatic stress disorder, and other anxiety disorders.
(651) 538-2938 View (651) 538-2938
Photo of Kirsten Robinette, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kirsten Robinette
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55101  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hi, I'm Kirsten and I'm a licensed social worker in Maryland! I appreciate you seeking support for yourself, and honored you came across my page. In my time in the mental health field, I have worked in crisis prevention/intervention and have substantial experience in suicide prevention and suicide loss. Alongside this experience, I have had years in providing therapeutic support to anyone seeking services in an outpatient mental health clinic and substance use agency, no matter their diagnosis or their reason for seeking support. This includes work with children, teens, and adults across the lifespan.
Hi, I'm Kirsten and I'm a licensed social worker in Maryland! I appreciate you seeking support for yourself, and honored you came across my page. In my time in the mental health field, I have worked in crisis prevention/intervention and have substantial experience in suicide prevention and suicide loss. Alongside this experience, I have had years in providing therapeutic support to anyone seeking services in an outpatient mental health clinic and substance use agency, no matter their diagnosis or their reason for seeking support. This includes work with children, teens, and adults across the lifespan.
(240) 255-9960 View (240) 255-9960
Photo of Elliot C Nuckols, MPS, LADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elliot C Nuckols
Licensed Professional Counselor, MPS, LADC
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55107
Waitlist for new clients
Much of my work is centered around gender – from issues surrounding identity exploration, to social/medical transition, to gender dysphoria, to gender-identity-related interpersonal challenges. Some of my favorite work is in helping to bridge the communication gaps between teens and their families after a teen has come out as trans/gender nonconforming! I also have experience with depression, anxiety, substance use, military families, sexuality and sexual health, emetophobia (phobia of vomit), phase-of-life challenges, uncertainty/anxiety about the future, kink/BDSM, and partner conflict/miscommunication.
Much of my work is centered around gender – from issues surrounding identity exploration, to social/medical transition, to gender dysphoria, to gender-identity-related interpersonal challenges. Some of my favorite work is in helping to bridge the communication gaps between teens and their families after a teen has come out as trans/gender nonconforming! I also have experience with depression, anxiety, substance use, military families, sexuality and sexual health, emetophobia (phobia of vomit), phase-of-life challenges, uncertainty/anxiety about the future, kink/BDSM, and partner conflict/miscommunication.
(612) 662-4116 View (612) 662-4116
Photo of Erin E Shobe (Leach) - Minnesota Counseling and Therapy Center, MA, LMFT, RPT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Minnesota Counseling and Therapy Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55101
Erin works with GLBT challenges, substance use disorders, loss, anger management, eating disorders, affective disorders (depression, anxiety, bipolar)utilizing traditional talk therapy as well as play therapy and art therapy techniques.
Erin is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Minnesota. She completed her undergraduate work at the University of North Dakota. While working as a Crisis Counselor, Erin earned a Masters Degree in Professional Counseling and Marriage and Family Therapy from the Minnesota School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University. Erin is also a Registered Play Therapist and a Certified PREPARE/ENRICH Counselor (Relationship Counseling). She is a member of the American Association for Play Therapy and American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy. Erin works with children, adolescents, adults, couples, families, and groups dealing with various life changes.
Erin works with GLBT challenges, substance use disorders, loss, anger management, eating disorders, affective disorders (depression, anxiety, bipolar)utilizing traditional talk therapy as well as play therapy and art therapy techniques.
Erin is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Minnesota. She completed her undergraduate work at the University of North Dakota. While working as a Crisis Counselor, Erin earned a Masters Degree in Professional Counseling and Marriage and Family Therapy from the Minnesota School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University. Erin is also a Registered Play Therapist and a Certified PREPARE/ENRICH Counselor (Relationship Counseling). She is a member of the American Association for Play Therapy and American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy. Erin works with children, adolescents, adults, couples, families, and groups dealing with various life changes.
(651) 447-5898 View (651) 447-5898
Photo of Melinda R Coscarelli, PhD, LPCC, LADC, Counselor
Melinda R Coscarelli
Counselor, PhD, LPCC, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55102
I am specialized in neuro-science based interventions which are the most effective for treating everything from trauma such as PTSD, depression, anxiety, self esteem issues, substance use disorders, anger issues and much more.
Are you ready for something better in your life but don't know where to start? Welcome to the next generation in Therapy and Treatment Programming! We are a group of specialized therapists who get right to the root of the issue, helping you feel better much quicker than some of the traditional therapies. We offer evidenced based neuro-science techniques that are effective for treating everything from trauma, PTSD, self-esteem, depression, anxiety, substance abuse and several other concerns. We are warm, welcoming, compassionate and highly skilled. We take good care of our clients, and we will take good care of YOU!
I am specialized in neuro-science based interventions which are the most effective for treating everything from trauma such as PTSD, depression, anxiety, self esteem issues, substance use disorders, anger issues and much more.
Are you ready for something better in your life but don't know where to start? Welcome to the next generation in Therapy and Treatment Programming! We are a group of specialized therapists who get right to the root of the issue, helping you feel better much quicker than some of the traditional therapies. We offer evidenced based neuro-science techniques that are effective for treating everything from trauma, PTSD, self-esteem, depression, anxiety, substance abuse and several other concerns. We are warm, welcoming, compassionate and highly skilled. We take good care of our clients, and we will take good care of YOU!
(651) 372-8567 View (651) 372-8567
Photo of Ian P McLoone, LPCC, LADC
Ian P McLoone
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55102
I am an experienced therapist who enjoys helping people address both substance use and mental health problems.
Are you or a loved one thinking about making a change to your drinking or substance use? I can help. Some of my clients have been in and out of rehab many times and were looking for an alternative-someone with deep expertise who can provide a new way of looking at their problem and identify a pathway out of their suffering. Still other clients came to me because they did not feel that they needed something as intensive as rehab and wanted to work on their substance use while still taking care of their career, family, home and other obligations. I would be honored to be of assistance.
I am an experienced therapist who enjoys helping people address both substance use and mental health problems.
Are you or a loved one thinking about making a change to your drinking or substance use? I can help. Some of my clients have been in and out of rehab many times and were looking for an alternative-someone with deep expertise who can provide a new way of looking at their problem and identify a pathway out of their suffering. Still other clients came to me because they did not feel that they needed something as intensive as rehab and wanted to work on their substance use while still taking care of their career, family, home and other obligations. I would be honored to be of assistance.
(651) 390-1238 View (651) 390-1238

See more therapy options for West Saint Paul

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.