Substance Use Therapists in Durham, NC

Photo of Candace Lightheart, LCSW, LCAS, CSI, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Candace Lightheart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, CSI
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27707
Many people tell me they feel their struggles aren't significant enough for therapy. The truth is, therapy can be helpful for a wide range of concerns, such as anxiety, relationship issues, or simply feeling stuck. Therapy is a safe space to address any concerns that are impacting your happiness and daily life, regardless of the size or complexity. I provide compassionate and individualized care for adults experiencing emotional distress related to career stress, trauma, and substance use concerns, including individuals in recovery. Let’s work together to build resilience, find healing, and create a healthier you!
Many people tell me they feel their struggles aren't significant enough for therapy. The truth is, therapy can be helpful for a wide range of concerns, such as anxiety, relationship issues, or simply feeling stuck. Therapy is a safe space to address any concerns that are impacting your happiness and daily life, regardless of the size or complexity. I provide compassionate and individualized care for adults experiencing emotional distress related to career stress, trauma, and substance use concerns, including individuals in recovery. Let’s work together to build resilience, find healing, and create a healthier you!
(919) 804-1124 View (919) 804-1124
Photo of Dharma Pantha - Dharma Counseling Services, LPCS, LCAS, CCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dharma Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCS, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707
Mental Health/ substance use assessment and counseling, EAP counseling, DWI/DUI evaluations and ADETS, short and long term treatment.
As a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) and Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist (LCAS) I provide individual psychotherapy, viewing each individual within the context of their environment & their inner sources. I have worked at all levels of care. I appreciate collaborating with other treatment providers to provide the best care possible. In the midst of a struggle, we can often lose sight of our strengths, and I work alongside clients to re-connect to their inherent resilience/resources. I meet clients where they are and strive to create a therapeutic environment that is affirming, accepting and inclusive
Mental Health/ substance use assessment and counseling, EAP counseling, DWI/DUI evaluations and ADETS, short and long term treatment.
As a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) and Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist (LCAS) I provide individual psychotherapy, viewing each individual within the context of their environment & their inner sources. I have worked at all levels of care. I appreciate collaborating with other treatment providers to provide the best care possible. In the midst of a struggle, we can often lose sight of our strengths, and I work alongside clients to re-connect to their inherent resilience/resources. I meet clients where they are and strive to create a therapeutic environment that is affirming, accepting and inclusive
(919) 629-0476 View (919) 629-0476
Photo of Dr. Catherine Paquette, PhD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Dr. Catherine Paquette
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27703  (Online Only)
I completed my PhD in clinical psychology with a focus on evidence-based treatment for substance use and addiction, including harm reduction strategies for people who want to develop a healthier approach to using substances.
I have current openings for individuals and couples, with three primary areas of specialty: 1) substance use, 2) trauma, and 3) relationship difficulties. I also help patients with other concerns such as depression and anxiety. My goal is to help you nonjudgmentally understand how you developed patterns that are not working for you now, and to use evidence-based strategies to help you meet your goals. I will help you feel safe and supported discussing sensitive topics while also giving you the structure and accountability needed to make meaningful changes. I use approaches that have been shown to be effective through research.
I completed my PhD in clinical psychology with a focus on evidence-based treatment for substance use and addiction, including harm reduction strategies for people who want to develop a healthier approach to using substances.
I have current openings for individuals and couples, with three primary areas of specialty: 1) substance use, 2) trauma, and 3) relationship difficulties. I also help patients with other concerns such as depression and anxiety. My goal is to help you nonjudgmentally understand how you developed patterns that are not working for you now, and to use evidence-based strategies to help you meet your goals. I will help you feel safe and supported discussing sensitive topics while also giving you the structure and accountability needed to make meaningful changes. I use approaches that have been shown to be effective through research.
(984) 224-7714 View (984) 224-7714
Photo of Katelyn Chapman - Katelyn Chapman, MA, LCASA, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Katelyn Chapman
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, LCASA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707
As a licensed clinical addiction specialist associate, my specialty allows me to treat substance use disorders along with co-occuring disorders, including trauma, depression and anxiety.
Hi there. I’m Katelyn, an addiction specialist and mental health counselor. I offer space for you to process the ways that substance use and misuse–whether by you or a loved one–might hinder you from living a flourishing life. People I meet with are typically seeking to break long term addictions, achieve a healthier lifestyle, and/or seeking help around a complex relationship with someone who is abusing substances. Others are in sobriety and may be seeking support or to process past trauma that led to their initial misuse. Some are seeking to use substances in moderation and others are seeking a sober lifestyle.
As a licensed clinical addiction specialist associate, my specialty allows me to treat substance use disorders along with co-occuring disorders, including trauma, depression and anxiety.
Hi there. I’m Katelyn, an addiction specialist and mental health counselor. I offer space for you to process the ways that substance use and misuse–whether by you or a loved one–might hinder you from living a flourishing life. People I meet with are typically seeking to break long term addictions, achieve a healthier lifestyle, and/or seeking help around a complex relationship with someone who is abusing substances. Others are in sobriety and may be seeking support or to process past trauma that led to their initial misuse. Some are seeking to use substances in moderation and others are seeking a sober lifestyle.
(919) 551-3320 View (919) 551-3320
Photo of Ben Morton, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ben Morton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27704
Waitlist for new clients
Currently full. Hello! I appreciate you being here. Working in diverse treatment settings have helped shaped my therapeutic framework as well as the people who I enjoy working with. My therapeutic framework is integrative and holistic where I incorporate mind, body, and spirit into our work. My client's will typically have experiences of or identify as: people who use drugs or have a history of substance use, members of the LBTQIA+ community, millennials, children of emotionally immature parents, high achievers, dysregulated nervous systems, spiritual, past trauma, new at therapy, and anticapitalist/social justice advocates.
Currently full. Hello! I appreciate you being here. Working in diverse treatment settings have helped shaped my therapeutic framework as well as the people who I enjoy working with. My therapeutic framework is integrative and holistic where I incorporate mind, body, and spirit into our work. My client's will typically have experiences of or identify as: people who use drugs or have a history of substance use, members of the LBTQIA+ community, millennials, children of emotionally immature parents, high achievers, dysregulated nervous systems, spiritual, past trauma, new at therapy, and anticapitalist/social justice advocates.
(919) 355-9820 View (919) 355-9820
Photo of Ashley Phelps - NC Center for Counseling & Psychological Services, LPA, HSP-PA, Psychological Associate
NC Center for Counseling & Psychological Services
Psychological Associate, LPA, HSP-PA
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27704
In our practice we work with children, adolescents, and adults dealing with a variety of issues. We have experience conducting a variety of comprehensive psychological, neuropsychological, cognitive, and substance use evaluations. We have experience conducting psychological testing of patients of all ages, including but are not limited to: Personality, Diagnostic Clarification, Intelligence, Achievement, Learning Disorders, Pervasive Developmental Disorders (e.g., Autism), and ADHD testing.
In our practice we work with children, adolescents, and adults dealing with a variety of issues. We have experience conducting a variety of comprehensive psychological, neuropsychological, cognitive, and substance use evaluations. We have experience conducting psychological testing of patients of all ages, including but are not limited to: Personality, Diagnostic Clarification, Intelligence, Achievement, Learning Disorders, Pervasive Developmental Disorders (e.g., Autism), and ADHD testing.
(919) 371-5878 View (919) 371-5878
Photo of Jen Kirkpatrick, MA, LCMHC, ATR, Counselor
Jen Kirkpatrick
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, ATR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707
Waitlist for new clients
The struggle in life can get real, sometimes more often than we like. Maybe you are struggling with feeling stressed, isolated, hopeless, anxious, lost or unmotivated. It could be that life has become misaligned and you are ready to address your substance use whether it be alcohol and/or other drugs. Maybe you are the primary caregiver for your aging parent or grandparent, and the physical and emotional challenges have become too overwhelming. You are the expert in your life. I will encourage you to be creatively brave as we navigate and discover ways to strengthen your self-esteem, relationships and coping skills.
The struggle in life can get real, sometimes more often than we like. Maybe you are struggling with feeling stressed, isolated, hopeless, anxious, lost or unmotivated. It could be that life has become misaligned and you are ready to address your substance use whether it be alcohol and/or other drugs. Maybe you are the primary caregiver for your aging parent or grandparent, and the physical and emotional challenges have become too overwhelming. You are the expert in your life. I will encourage you to be creatively brave as we navigate and discover ways to strengthen your self-esteem, relationships and coping skills.
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Photo of Dr. Mary Woodson, PhD, LCAS, LCMHC, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Dr. Mary Woodson
Counselor, PhD, LCAS, LCMHC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707  (Online Only)
I provide counseling services to families, adults, and adolescents (ages 12-19) with general mental health concerns and substance use disorders.
If you or your teenager can answer yes to ANY of these questions, let's schedule a time to meet conveniently online: Feeling hopeless or like things aren't going to get better? Having difficulty speaking up for yourself or communicating with others?Is it hard adjusting to change? Do you wish you had a clear plan towards reaching your goals? Do you deal with stress? Are you in an open, poly, or non-monogamous relationship (ENM)? Do you have negative thoughts or struggle with low self-esteem? Are you starting to use alcohol or drugs to cope with your problems and worried it may be getting out of control?
I provide counseling services to families, adults, and adolescents (ages 12-19) with general mental health concerns and substance use disorders.
If you or your teenager can answer yes to ANY of these questions, let's schedule a time to meet conveniently online: Feeling hopeless or like things aren't going to get better? Having difficulty speaking up for yourself or communicating with others?Is it hard adjusting to change? Do you wish you had a clear plan towards reaching your goals? Do you deal with stress? Are you in an open, poly, or non-monogamous relationship (ENM)? Do you have negative thoughts or struggle with low self-esteem? Are you starting to use alcohol or drugs to cope with your problems and worried it may be getting out of control?
(919) 899-2841 View (919) 899-2841
Photo of Katie da Luz, MS, LCMHC, LCAS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katie da Luz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707
I have extensive experience working with adolescents and adults, persons experiencing substance use and addiction, dual-diagnosis, general life stressors, and anxiety and depression.
I believe the relationship between you and your therapist is fundamental to the therapeutic process. I focus on concepts of trust and creating a safe environment so you feel free to process thoughts, develop healthy coping skills, and focus on reducing, managing and eliminating symptoms. I emphasize open and honest communication while maintaining a non-judgmental approach throughout treatment. I will create and support an individualized experience for you and center the therapeutic process on your personal goals.
I have extensive experience working with adolescents and adults, persons experiencing substance use and addiction, dual-diagnosis, general life stressors, and anxiety and depression.
I believe the relationship between you and your therapist is fundamental to the therapeutic process. I focus on concepts of trust and creating a safe environment so you feel free to process thoughts, develop healthy coping skills, and focus on reducing, managing and eliminating symptoms. I emphasize open and honest communication while maintaining a non-judgmental approach throughout treatment. I will create and support an individualized experience for you and center the therapeutic process on your personal goals.
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Photo of Chelsi Allayne McDougal, MSW, LCSW-A, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chelsi Allayne McDougal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-A
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27713
Chelsi is a Licensed Clinical Social Work Associate. She has over 15 years of experience working within the field of mental health, substance use, I/DD and Autism. She has worked in various settings including school setting, specialized recreation, in home direct care, day program, community based and outpatient therapy. Chelsi has worked with populations including children, teens and adults. She prioritizes person centered care involving the goals of the individual and utilizing interventions to promote growth. She understands the importance of self-determination. Chelsi utilizes an unique, compassionate and collaborative approach
Chelsi is a Licensed Clinical Social Work Associate. She has over 15 years of experience working within the field of mental health, substance use, I/DD and Autism. She has worked in various settings including school setting, specialized recreation, in home direct care, day program, community based and outpatient therapy. Chelsi has worked with populations including children, teens and adults. She prioritizes person centered care involving the goals of the individual and utilizing interventions to promote growth. She understands the importance of self-determination. Chelsi utilizes an unique, compassionate and collaborative approach
(919) 626-4745 View (919) 626-4745
Photo of Ollie Walker, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ollie Walker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27701
I have extensive experience working with substance use and trauma- supporting the individual as well as the family and community impacted.
My work is grounded in compassion, affirmation and empathy. I believe that identifying and honoring one's strengths, especially in the context of struggle, is important to growth and healing. It's difficult to let go of old patterns that once helped you cope or survive but are now harmful. I can support you in finding your way through.
I have extensive experience working with substance use and trauma- supporting the individual as well as the family and community impacted.
My work is grounded in compassion, affirmation and empathy. I believe that identifying and honoring one's strengths, especially in the context of struggle, is important to growth and healing. It's difficult to let go of old patterns that once helped you cope or survive but are now harmful. I can support you in finding your way through.
(919) 739-2779 View (919) 739-2779
Photo of Whitley Grant-Goodman, LCMHCS, LCAS
Whitley Grant-Goodman
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHCS, LCAS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707  (Online Only)
I have specialties in helping folks manage anxiety, depression, life transitions, and mild substance use concerns.
You deserve optimal mental wellness and a space to have your concerns validated. Some of us are battling issues that others can see and some that are not so visible. My purpose as your therapist is to provide you with a safe space to process, help you better understand your emotions, identify your strengths and guide you on your journey to find the tools and techniques to deal with those battles. I specialize in working with women of color who struggle with these battles and are looking for tools to combat them.
I have specialties in helping folks manage anxiety, depression, life transitions, and mild substance use concerns.
You deserve optimal mental wellness and a space to have your concerns validated. Some of us are battling issues that others can see and some that are not so visible. My purpose as your therapist is to provide you with a safe space to process, help you better understand your emotions, identify your strengths and guide you on your journey to find the tools and techniques to deal with those battles. I specialize in working with women of color who struggle with these battles and are looking for tools to combat them.
(919) 351-6205 View (919) 351-6205
Photo of Samir Hanef, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samir Hanef
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707
I provide both outpatient mental health therapy and substance abuse/use assessments and therapy to all members of the community. Clients experiencing such issues as depression/anxiety, PTSD/trauma, life changes, gender identity concerns, and substance use will benefit from the services I offer. I utilize a person centered approach and work collaboratively with clients to address their needs. I meet clients 'where they are' and work with them to identify positive interventions and change. The comprehensive clinical assessments and substance abuse assessments I provide meet criteria for court ordered and school referred clients and can be completed in office or at your location.
I provide both outpatient mental health therapy and substance abuse/use assessments and therapy to all members of the community. Clients experiencing such issues as depression/anxiety, PTSD/trauma, life changes, gender identity concerns, and substance use will benefit from the services I offer. I utilize a person centered approach and work collaboratively with clients to address their needs. I meet clients 'where they are' and work with them to identify positive interventions and change. The comprehensive clinical assessments and substance abuse assessments I provide meet criteria for court ordered and school referred clients and can be completed in office or at your location.
(919) 289-4252 View (919) 289-4252
Photo of Charlotte Sime, LCMHC, LCASA, CIMHP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Charlotte Sime
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LCASA, CIMHP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27713  (Online Only)
The ideal client is one who is curious and willing to explore new and different options in their life. Their issues could be life stressors, poor relationships, self-esteem, family conflict, trauma, substance use, codependency, setting boundaries, mood disorders, anger management, bereavement, spiritual issues, depression, anxious, parenting issues, needing coping skills, ADHD, adjusting to life changes, poor sleep habits, help setting self-care goals, feeling stuck in life, sad or lost. The client may simply want someone to talk with, to feel heard, to know they're not alone and help take back control in their life.
The ideal client is one who is curious and willing to explore new and different options in their life. Their issues could be life stressors, poor relationships, self-esteem, family conflict, trauma, substance use, codependency, setting boundaries, mood disorders, anger management, bereavement, spiritual issues, depression, anxious, parenting issues, needing coping skills, ADHD, adjusting to life changes, poor sleep habits, help setting self-care goals, feeling stuck in life, sad or lost. The client may simply want someone to talk with, to feel heard, to know they're not alone and help take back control in their life.
(919) 348-2932 View (919) 348-2932
Photo of Jeff Georgi, MDiv, MAH, LCAS, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Jeff Georgi
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MDiv, MAH, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27705
I have been treating patients and training professionals in the mental health and substance use field for 40 years and have had the previous of working with many leaders in the field.
My philosophy: I work together with patients to identify their goals, discover underlying issues and create a treatment plan driven by the patient’s desired outcome. Whether you, or a loved one, is struggling with substance use, depression or a combination of mental health problems, we will work together to create a plan that will help you reach your full potential.
I have been treating patients and training professionals in the mental health and substance use field for 40 years and have had the previous of working with many leaders in the field.
My philosophy: I work together with patients to identify their goals, discover underlying issues and create a treatment plan driven by the patient’s desired outcome. Whether you, or a loved one, is struggling with substance use, depression or a combination of mental health problems, we will work together to create a plan that will help you reach your full potential.
(984) 465-7511 View (984) 465-7511
Photo of LeeAnna Gill, LCSWA, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
LeeAnna Gill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA, LCAS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707
If you are struggling and looking for a space for your experiences and emotions to be validated and affirmed, a place free of judgment, and searching for some hope when it feels like there is none, then we may be a good fit. My therapy style allows me to work well with those who are experiencing interpersonal challenges, life transitions, general and social anxiety, depression, and patterns of substance use.
If you are struggling and looking for a space for your experiences and emotions to be validated and affirmed, a place free of judgment, and searching for some hope when it feels like there is none, then we may be a good fit. My therapy style allows me to work well with those who are experiencing interpersonal challenges, life transitions, general and social anxiety, depression, and patterns of substance use.
(919) 429-8802 View (919) 429-8802
Photo of Dr. Jeff Kulley, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Jeff Kulley
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27704  (Online Only)
I've been a psychotherapist for 30+ years and have deep experience in college counseling centers as well as private practice. I work well with undergraduate, graduate, and professional students, as well as working adults of all ages. I'm respectful and sincere with clients but have a calm, even-keeled disposition. Clients find me to be real and relatable as a person. I love to use humor and laughter to help build a therapeutic partnership that can also hold the heaviest emotions and struggles. I work well with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, stress and anger management, and alcohol and other substance use.
I've been a psychotherapist for 30+ years and have deep experience in college counseling centers as well as private practice. I work well with undergraduate, graduate, and professional students, as well as working adults of all ages. I'm respectful and sincere with clients but have a calm, even-keeled disposition. Clients find me to be real and relatable as a person. I love to use humor and laughter to help build a therapeutic partnership that can also hold the heaviest emotions and struggles. I work well with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, stress and anger management, and alcohol and other substance use.
(919) 891-2511 View (919) 891-2511
Photo of Micheale Collie, LCMHC, LCAS, CSI, Licensed Professional Counselor
Micheale Collie
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, CSI
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27705
Waitlist for new clients
I welcome clients to my practice who are struggling with many of life's challenges, including substance use and addiction, anxiety, grief and loss, life transitions, family and relationship stress, and trauma. I believe no problem is too big or too small for therapy. You may identify as a high achiever who is used to getting things done and possibly caring for others. Who holds space for you?
I welcome clients to my practice who are struggling with many of life's challenges, including substance use and addiction, anxiety, grief and loss, life transitions, family and relationship stress, and trauma. I believe no problem is too big or too small for therapy. You may identify as a high achiever who is used to getting things done and possibly caring for others. Who holds space for you?
(919) 815-6384 View (919) 815-6384
Photo of Alicia Freeman - Ascend Counseling, PLLC, LCMHC, LCAS-A, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ascend Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27713  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hey y'all! I am Alicia Freeman, LCMHC, LCAS-A. I support clients experiencing a range of mental health and/or substance use concerns. For example, I assist client's with manage symptoms of anxiety, depression, and disordered eating. I prioritize individuals who belong to historically marginalized groups. I enjoy working to enhance self-esteem, identity, and cultural awareness. I also focus on establishing healthy relationships skills including communication, boundaries, and conflict resolution. We will establish treatment goals together to improve quality of life.
Hey y'all! I am Alicia Freeman, LCMHC, LCAS-A. I support clients experiencing a range of mental health and/or substance use concerns. For example, I assist client's with manage symptoms of anxiety, depression, and disordered eating. I prioritize individuals who belong to historically marginalized groups. I enjoy working to enhance self-esteem, identity, and cultural awareness. I also focus on establishing healthy relationships skills including communication, boundaries, and conflict resolution. We will establish treatment goals together to improve quality of life.
(919) 849-5175 View (919) 849-5175
Photo of Tessa Permut, PhD, LPC, LCAS-A, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tessa Permut
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27705
Waitlist for new clients
My approach is relational and intensive. I see therapy as a chance to connect with another human in a protected way that allows for greater openness and honesty. In the safety of the therapeutic relationship, I challenge my clients so we get beneath the surface to gain insight, find greater meaning, grounding, and deeper connection. I specialize in work with men, those experiencing divorce, life transitions, and relationship issues, and struggling with substance use.
My approach is relational and intensive. I see therapy as a chance to connect with another human in a protected way that allows for greater openness and honesty. In the safety of the therapeutic relationship, I challenge my clients so we get beneath the surface to gain insight, find greater meaning, grounding, and deeper connection. I specialize in work with men, those experiencing divorce, life transitions, and relationship issues, and struggling with substance use.
(919) 299-2253 View (919) 299-2253
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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.