Substance Use Therapists in Huntersville, NC

Photo of Ruthie Schultz, MA, LCMHC-A, LCAS-A, Counselor
Ruthie Schultz
Counselor, MA, LCMHC-A, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28070  (Online Only)
I have a passion for working with adolescents and adults managing a variety of concerns including anxiety, substance use disorders, depression, self-esteem, relationship issues, grief, and life transitions.
Therapy is a great way to foster connection, self-discovery and healing when life's challenges become overwhelming. Whether you're struggling with setting boundaries with others, balancing everyday stressors, or engaging in self-medicating behaviors- I am here to support. In my practice, I integrate a range of evidence-based approaches, utilizing techniques from dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), person-centered therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). My approach is collaborative, so based on your specific goals, we will decide together on the best approach for you to meet your needs.
I have a passion for working with adolescents and adults managing a variety of concerns including anxiety, substance use disorders, depression, self-esteem, relationship issues, grief, and life transitions.
Therapy is a great way to foster connection, self-discovery and healing when life's challenges become overwhelming. Whether you're struggling with setting boundaries with others, balancing everyday stressors, or engaging in self-medicating behaviors- I am here to support. In my practice, I integrate a range of evidence-based approaches, utilizing techniques from dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), person-centered therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). My approach is collaborative, so based on your specific goals, we will decide together on the best approach for you to meet your needs.
(704) 703-8709 View (704) 703-8709
Photo of Gabby Milando, MA, LCMHC, LCAS-A, NCC, Counselor
Gabby Milando
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS-A, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28070  (Online Only)
I am passionate about helping individuals navigate life’s challenges. My goal as a therapist is to walk alongside you, process past experiences, shed light on patterns you are engaging in, and provide you with tools to improve your mental health. I aim to foster growth, introspection, and self-acceptance. I enjoy working with a range of ages and concerns, but I am particularly passionate about working with adults suffering from anxiety, depression, substance use disorders, and self-esteem issues
I am passionate about helping individuals navigate life’s challenges. My goal as a therapist is to walk alongside you, process past experiences, shed light on patterns you are engaging in, and provide you with tools to improve your mental health. I aim to foster growth, introspection, and self-acceptance. I enjoy working with a range of ages and concerns, but I am particularly passionate about working with adults suffering from anxiety, depression, substance use disorders, and self-esteem issues
(704) 937-2050 View (704) 937-2050
Photo of Brandon Ostwalt, MA, LCMHC, LCAS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brandon Ostwalt
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
Huntersville, NC 28070
I specialize in the treatment of adults and adolescents who are struggling with such issues as depression, anxiety, mood disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, and substance use disorders.
If you are reading this, just know that you have taken an important first step in your mental health recovery. It has been my privilege to work with a very diverse group of clients of varying races, ethnicities, nationalities, genders and gender identities, sexual orientations, religions, disabilities, etc. I have also worked with clients of all ages, but most of my work has been with those age 13 and older. I draw mainly from the evidence-based treatments of cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, cognitive processing therapy, and dialectical behavioral-informed therapeutic interventions.
I specialize in the treatment of adults and adolescents who are struggling with such issues as depression, anxiety, mood disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, and substance use disorders.
If you are reading this, just know that you have taken an important first step in your mental health recovery. It has been my privilege to work with a very diverse group of clients of varying races, ethnicities, nationalities, genders and gender identities, sexual orientations, religions, disabilities, etc. I have also worked with clients of all ages, but most of my work has been with those age 13 and older. I draw mainly from the evidence-based treatments of cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, cognitive processing therapy, and dialectical behavioral-informed therapeutic interventions.
(704) 270-6952 View (704) 270-6952
Photo of Katia Grace Hamdan, MSW, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katia Grace Hamdan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Huntersville, NC 28078
I have extensive experience addressing issues such as trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, substance use, and grief.
My goal as your therapist is to help create a safe space and establish a trusting foundation to help you develop skills for managing intense emotion and reduce emotional distress. I will assist you in achieving personal goals, promote self-awareness, self-acceptance, and personal development. I am dedicated to empowering my clients and working collaboratively with them to create a fulfilling life by fostering insight and mindful awareness of their emotional wounds and lived experiences.
I have extensive experience addressing issues such as trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, substance use, and grief.
My goal as your therapist is to help create a safe space and establish a trusting foundation to help you develop skills for managing intense emotion and reduce emotional distress. I will assist you in achieving personal goals, promote self-awareness, self-acceptance, and personal development. I am dedicated to empowering my clients and working collaboratively with them to create a fulfilling life by fostering insight and mindful awareness of their emotional wounds and lived experiences.
(980) 983-0095 View (980) 983-0095
Photo of David Shein, MSW, LCSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
David Shein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28078
David specializes in individual, couples and group therapy related to: substance use disorders; corporate mental health and wellness; executive coaching; life goals/skills development and implementation; relationships (couples, family, workplace); anxiety; depression, anger; self-esteem; shame; grief and loss; and, crisis intervention.
David Shein uses a collaborative and strengths-based approach with each of his clients. When developing a treatment plan, David believes in leveraging a client’s self-knowledge, and will always meet clients where they are emotionally, cognitively, and physically. David incorporates humor, music, literature, media, and sports in his therapeutic work, and integrates a variety of evidenced-based treatment interventions to address behavioral health issues, including: Motivational Interviewing; CBT; EMDR; Twelve-Step Facilitation Therapy; and Acceptance Commitment Therapy.
David specializes in individual, couples and group therapy related to: substance use disorders; corporate mental health and wellness; executive coaching; life goals/skills development and implementation; relationships (couples, family, workplace); anxiety; depression, anger; self-esteem; shame; grief and loss; and, crisis intervention.
David Shein uses a collaborative and strengths-based approach with each of his clients. When developing a treatment plan, David believes in leveraging a client’s self-knowledge, and will always meet clients where they are emotionally, cognitively, and physically. David incorporates humor, music, literature, media, and sports in his therapeutic work, and integrates a variety of evidenced-based treatment interventions to address behavioral health issues, including: Motivational Interviewing; CBT; EMDR; Twelve-Step Facilitation Therapy; and Acceptance Commitment Therapy.
(704) 775-6948 View (704) 775-6948
Photo of Vanessa S Sampson-Schneider, MS, LCMHC
Vanessa S Sampson-Schneider
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Huntersville, NC 28078
Greetings and salutations! Thank you for taking the time to peruse my profile. I am a North Carolina licensed clinical mental health counselor. I am also licensed to provide telehealth counseling services for folx that reside in Florida and Georgia. I am a queer identified cisgender African American female. I have engaged in extensive training to effectively treat mental health concerns and substance use/abuse in black, indigenous, and other people of color, female identified persons, active-duty military, veterans, and LGBTQIA2S+ identified persons. I provide counseling services to individuals, couples, and families.
Greetings and salutations! Thank you for taking the time to peruse my profile. I am a North Carolina licensed clinical mental health counselor. I am also licensed to provide telehealth counseling services for folx that reside in Florida and Georgia. I am a queer identified cisgender African American female. I have engaged in extensive training to effectively treat mental health concerns and substance use/abuse in black, indigenous, and other people of color, female identified persons, active-duty military, veterans, and LGBTQIA2S+ identified persons. I provide counseling services to individuals, couples, and families.
(980) 372-8748 View (980) 372-8748
Photo of Jessica Nichole Crowe, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Nichole Crowe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28078
I thrive in working with individuals who are struggling with anxiety, substance use, life transitions, co-dependency, and low self-esteem.
I believe that therapy is the best gift you could ever give yourself. Anyone can benefit from taking the time to understand how their minds operate and what parts of their identity are challenging the peace, happiness, and love they deserve. As a person-centered therapist, I understand the value of meeting an individual where they are at with their lives and building off their strengths/resources. My goal as your therapist is to provide empowerment and the instillation of hope for whatever change you want to create in your life.
I thrive in working with individuals who are struggling with anxiety, substance use, life transitions, co-dependency, and low self-esteem.
I believe that therapy is the best gift you could ever give yourself. Anyone can benefit from taking the time to understand how their minds operate and what parts of their identity are challenging the peace, happiness, and love they deserve. As a person-centered therapist, I understand the value of meeting an individual where they are at with their lives and building off their strengths/resources. My goal as your therapist is to provide empowerment and the instillation of hope for whatever change you want to create in your life.
(704) 912-0692 View (704) 912-0692
Photo of Jennifer Kline, MA,  LCMHC, LCAS, NCC
Jennifer Kline
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS, NCC
Verified Verified
Huntersville, NC 28078
Waitlist for new clients
With years of experience in working at an intensive outpatient treatment program for addiction, I have a passion for helping those struggling with substance use and its related issues.
Pause, and take a breath. You are where you need to be in this moment, present and safe. We often struggle with a void, a deep emptiness we often cannot explain. It leaves us feeling like we aren't good enough, unworthy, or alone. It’s time to quiet that voice. You no longer need to suffer alone. I am here to help you find serenity, strength, hope, and courage within yourself. Those demons you have kept inside deserve to be heard, processed, and understood. Let’s work together so you may find authenticity and peace within yourself.
With years of experience in working at an intensive outpatient treatment program for addiction, I have a passion for helping those struggling with substance use and its related issues.
Pause, and take a breath. You are where you need to be in this moment, present and safe. We often struggle with a void, a deep emptiness we often cannot explain. It leaves us feeling like we aren't good enough, unworthy, or alone. It’s time to quiet that voice. You no longer need to suffer alone. I am here to help you find serenity, strength, hope, and courage within yourself. Those demons you have kept inside deserve to be heard, processed, and understood. Let’s work together so you may find authenticity and peace within yourself.
(704) 946-8581 View (704) 946-8581
Photo of Chanel C. Bowen, LCMHC, LCAS, CCS, NCC
Chanel C. Bowen
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, CCS, NCC
Verified Verified
Huntersville, NC 28078
If you've been experiencing anxiety, depression or issues with substance use lately, I'd like to help. Today's stressors have been affecting home life, professional life, emotional stability and many other areas. It can help to have a positive therapeutic relationship to work on feeling more balanced and improving your quality of life. You can consider yourself starting a personal Inner Renovations project where you'll receive Faith-Forward Counseling & access Mindfulness-Based tools that support your treatment plan and help you restore balance in Mind/Body/Spirit. Add structure to your self-care and make your wellbeing priority.
If you've been experiencing anxiety, depression or issues with substance use lately, I'd like to help. Today's stressors have been affecting home life, professional life, emotional stability and many other areas. It can help to have a positive therapeutic relationship to work on feeling more balanced and improving your quality of life. You can consider yourself starting a personal Inner Renovations project where you'll receive Faith-Forward Counseling & access Mindfulness-Based tools that support your treatment plan and help you restore balance in Mind/Body/Spirit. Add structure to your self-care and make your wellbeing priority.
(980) 888-8284 View (980) 888-8284
Photo of Linda Ferguson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Linda Ferguson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Huntersville, NC 28078
Life is a journey that can consist of ups and downs, twists and turns, and sometimes even forks in the middle of the road. There is no crystal ball to predict the right path to travel to reach one's destination, but one can learn how to avoid pitfalls and arrive at one's destination safely. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker of 15 years, I have assisted children, adolescents, and adults with mental health and substance use disorders in acquiring new strategies to be successful within the military services, educational field, hospital, penal system, family violence, and HIV/AIDS non-profit.
Life is a journey that can consist of ups and downs, twists and turns, and sometimes even forks in the middle of the road. There is no crystal ball to predict the right path to travel to reach one's destination, but one can learn how to avoid pitfalls and arrive at one's destination safely. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker of 15 years, I have assisted children, adolescents, and adults with mental health and substance use disorders in acquiring new strategies to be successful within the military services, educational field, hospital, penal system, family violence, and HIV/AIDS non-profit.
(980) 294-6989 View (980) 294-6989
Photo of Cassiel Smith - Welltheology Counseling Center, LCAS, CCS
Welltheology Counseling Center
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28078  (Online Only)
I bring over 10 years of experience in youth leadership and development and the substance use disorder and mental health field.
Looking for help is not always the easiest thing to do, however, I am glad that you are looking and I'm glad that you've landed on my page. There may be many different reasons as to why you are looking for a therapist. Perhaps you're dealing with depression, fear or anxiety. These are actually some of the most common and uncomfortable emotions that we can experience at any point in our lives. Whatever the issue is for you, I want to help you build the skills to cope and unlock your potential to overcome your problems as you pursue your journey to becoming a better you.
I bring over 10 years of experience in youth leadership and development and the substance use disorder and mental health field.
Looking for help is not always the easiest thing to do, however, I am glad that you are looking and I'm glad that you've landed on my page. There may be many different reasons as to why you are looking for a therapist. Perhaps you're dealing with depression, fear or anxiety. These are actually some of the most common and uncomfortable emotions that we can experience at any point in our lives. Whatever the issue is for you, I want to help you build the skills to cope and unlock your potential to overcome your problems as you pursue your journey to becoming a better you.
(704) 389-2991 View (704) 389-2991
Photo of Mary Jane McGill, LCMHCS, LCAS, CCS
Mary Jane McGill
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, LCMHCS, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28070
My past experiences include working with adolescents, adults, and elderly with physical, substance use and mental health disorders.
Over the last 45+ years I have had family and friends ask why I stay in the counseling field. My usual answer is, “Because I love it”. I am grateful to have two areas of the counseling field that are important to me. One as a counselor and one as a consultant providing clinical supervision/training/administrative and quality assurance guidance. By having the ability to work in both counseling and management arenas I am able to provide counseling to my clients, facilitate trainings in North Carolina, assist new counselors with improving their knowledge and skills, and provide consultation to other agencies/
My past experiences include working with adolescents, adults, and elderly with physical, substance use and mental health disorders.
Over the last 45+ years I have had family and friends ask why I stay in the counseling field. My usual answer is, “Because I love it”. I am grateful to have two areas of the counseling field that are important to me. One as a counselor and one as a consultant providing clinical supervision/training/administrative and quality assurance guidance. By having the ability to work in both counseling and management arenas I am able to provide counseling to my clients, facilitate trainings in North Carolina, assist new counselors with improving their knowledge and skills, and provide consultation to other agencies/
(336) 203-8833 View (336) 203-8833
Photo of Kristin Matas, MS, LCMHCS, LCAS
Kristin Matas
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, MS, LCMHCS, LCAS
Verified Verified
Huntersville, NC 28070
Each person is unique with their own concerns and counseling needs. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, life adjustments, relationship issues, substance use issues, or unresolved trauma, learning therapeutic strategies can help you feel better. I will tailor my approach with you based on the information you provide and my clinical assessment. We will collaborate to establish your treatment goals. I understand that counseling is a very personal experience, and it is important that you feel comfortable discussing your thoughts and feelings with me in an environment that is safe, accepting and non-judgmental.
Each person is unique with their own concerns and counseling needs. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, life adjustments, relationship issues, substance use issues, or unresolved trauma, learning therapeutic strategies can help you feel better. I will tailor my approach with you based on the information you provide and my clinical assessment. We will collaborate to establish your treatment goals. I understand that counseling is a very personal experience, and it is important that you feel comfortable discussing your thoughts and feelings with me in an environment that is safe, accepting and non-judgmental.
(704) 850-6573 View (704) 850-6573
Photo of Aimee Campagna, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Aimee Campagna
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28078
Hi, I'm Aimee! First, I want to say I'm proud of you for taking this step. I believe therapy is a partnership and my goal is to create a safe and nurturing environment where you can find understanding and acceptance. My focus is centered on facilitating self-awareness, fostering positive change, and promoting healing in the lives of my clients. My area of expertise is working with adults that encompass a wide range of challenges, including substance use disorders, anxiety, depression, PTSD, relationship difficulties, self-sabotaging behaviors, health and wellness issues, and navigating life transitions.
Hi, I'm Aimee! First, I want to say I'm proud of you for taking this step. I believe therapy is a partnership and my goal is to create a safe and nurturing environment where you can find understanding and acceptance. My focus is centered on facilitating self-awareness, fostering positive change, and promoting healing in the lives of my clients. My area of expertise is working with adults that encompass a wide range of challenges, including substance use disorders, anxiety, depression, PTSD, relationship difficulties, self-sabotaging behaviors, health and wellness issues, and navigating life transitions.
(704) 908-6158 View (704) 908-6158
Photo of Julie G. Johnson, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Julie G. Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Huntersville, NC 28078
I have over 14 years of experience in the mental health field and specialize in treating depression, anxiety, trauma, and substance use issues. I also have extensive experience helping clients explore underlying core beliefs that impact both their self-esteem and many of their relationships. I am nationally certified in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (commonly referred to as CBT), which is extremely effective for individuals who need to quickly learn skills and techniques to reduce symptoms.
I have over 14 years of experience in the mental health field and specialize in treating depression, anxiety, trauma, and substance use issues. I also have extensive experience helping clients explore underlying core beliefs that impact both their self-esteem and many of their relationships. I am nationally certified in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (commonly referred to as CBT), which is extremely effective for individuals who need to quickly learn skills and techniques to reduce symptoms.
(704) 459-8603 View (704) 459-8603
Photo of Susette Ritenour, MA, LCMHC, Counselor
Susette Ritenour
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Huntersville, NC 28078
As an LCMHC, I treat clients with symptoms of anxiety, depression, substance use, grief/loss and trauma. My interventions with adult clients include boundary setting, healing childhood or adult trauma, and exploring new ways of thinking. Treatment modalities also include developing coping skills for managing stress and anxiety, reshaping negative thought patterns, and gaining insight into sources of behavior and feelings. I help clients grow by improving the parts of their life that are not working.
As an LCMHC, I treat clients with symptoms of anxiety, depression, substance use, grief/loss and trauma. My interventions with adult clients include boundary setting, healing childhood or adult trauma, and exploring new ways of thinking. Treatment modalities also include developing coping skills for managing stress and anxiety, reshaping negative thought patterns, and gaining insight into sources of behavior and feelings. I help clients grow by improving the parts of their life that are not working.
(704) 272-2384 View (704) 272-2384
Photo of Melissa Benson, LCAS, LCMHCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melissa Benson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCAS, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
Huntersville, NC 28078
Now accepting Blue Cross Blue Shield!! Do you ever feel at war with your thoughts, feelings and emotions? Wishing to find the peace and serenity you have always been looking for? My goal is to help guide and support you through these difficulties in order to find this tranquility. After working 25 years in the field of psychology, special education and counseling, I understand the trust and vulnerability it takes to open up and share your inner feelings and thoughts.
Now accepting Blue Cross Blue Shield!! Do you ever feel at war with your thoughts, feelings and emotions? Wishing to find the peace and serenity you have always been looking for? My goal is to help guide and support you through these difficulties in order to find this tranquility. After working 25 years in the field of psychology, special education and counseling, I understand the trust and vulnerability it takes to open up and share your inner feelings and thoughts.
(980) 321-0414 View (980) 321-0414
Photo of Justin J Barnes, MA, LCMHC, LCASA, NCC, Counselor
Justin J Barnes
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCASA, NCC
Verified Verified
Huntersville, NC 28078
I earned my graduate degree from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte in Counseling with a concentration in addictions. I obtained my undergraduate degree from Charlotte Christian College and Theological Seminary in Urban Christian Ministries, where I graduated Summa Cum Laude. Areas of treatment include anxiety, stress, addiction, depression, grief & loss, and life challenges. My treatment approaches are evidence-based and include Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Person-centered therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR). I have completed Level 1 Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy.
I earned my graduate degree from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte in Counseling with a concentration in addictions. I obtained my undergraduate degree from Charlotte Christian College and Theological Seminary in Urban Christian Ministries, where I graduated Summa Cum Laude. Areas of treatment include anxiety, stress, addiction, depression, grief & loss, and life challenges. My treatment approaches are evidence-based and include Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Person-centered therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR). I have completed Level 1 Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy.
(980) 291-4986 x704 View (980) 291-4986 x704
Photo of Sabrina Renee Johnson - Alter Ego Counseling & Consulting, PLLC, MA, CSAC, LCAS-A, LCMHC, NCC, Counselor
Alter Ego Counseling & Consulting, PLLC
Counselor, MA, CSAC, LCAS-A, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Huntersville, NC 28078  (Online Only)
Overwhelmed? Stressed? Depressed? Feeling a little anxious? Can we talk for a minute? I’m Sabrina, a Licensed Professional Counselor. I’m here, you don’t have to deal with this alone. There is Hope. I can help. Allow me to support you on your journey to better mental health. But first..... Breathe……
Overwhelmed? Stressed? Depressed? Feeling a little anxious? Can we talk for a minute? I’m Sabrina, a Licensed Professional Counselor. I’m here, you don’t have to deal with this alone. There is Hope. I can help. Allow me to support you on your journey to better mental health. But first..... Breathe……
(704) 703-4645 View (704) 703-4645
Photo of Travis Bobb - Huntersville Counseling Center, Licensed Professional Counselor
Huntersville Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Huntersville, NC 28078
Huntersville Counseling Center provides counseling and psychological services to individuals in the Charlotte area. We promote individual growth and psychological health. We understand that each client is a unique individual influenced by their culture, family, values, and personal identity.
Huntersville Counseling Center provides counseling and psychological services to individuals in the Charlotte area. We promote individual growth and psychological health. We understand that each client is a unique individual influenced by their culture, family, values, and personal identity.
(704) 276-6417 View (704) 276-6417
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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.