Substance Use Therapists in Matthews, NC

Photo of Glenda Vinson-Nnaji, MEd, LCMHCS, LCAS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Glenda Vinson-Nnaji
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LCMHCS, LCAS, LPC
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28105
Other specialty areas include Anxiety, depression, trauma, Substance Use, ADHD, and gender identity issues.
My specialty areas include Trauma Resolution, Anxiety and Depression management, and ADHD. I take pride in helping individuals find solutions to difficulties they encounter to live happy healthy lives. My therapeutic style is empathetic and warm while focused on building on clients' strengths to help them heal from the past and find solutions for the future. My overall goal in therapy is to help clients acknowledge their problems and then focus on positive solutions that allow them to feel better and do better.
Other specialty areas include Anxiety, depression, trauma, Substance Use, ADHD, and gender identity issues.
My specialty areas include Trauma Resolution, Anxiety and Depression management, and ADHD. I take pride in helping individuals find solutions to difficulties they encounter to live happy healthy lives. My therapeutic style is empathetic and warm while focused on building on clients' strengths to help them heal from the past and find solutions for the future. My overall goal in therapy is to help clients acknowledge their problems and then focus on positive solutions that allow them to feel better and do better.
(704) 769-2607 View (704) 769-2607
Photo of Lily Mudry, LCMHCS, LCAS, CCS, MAC, NCC
Lily Mudry
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, LCMHCS, LCAS, CCS, MAC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
I am a highly skilled and compassionate Trauma Therapist dedicated to providing exceptional care within a holistic framework. I have 30 years of professional counseling experience and have implemented effective treatment for adolescents and adults enduring a variety of mental health and/or substance use disorders. As a Counselor in the healing profession, my emphasis is on furthering your Wellness and Growth. At Eagle Eye Counseling the focus is on a Keeness for Excellence through Healing, Stability and Empowerment. I am also certified as a Master Addictions Counselor and provide Clinical Supervision for both Mental Health Counselors and Addiction Counselors who are seeking licensure.
I am a highly skilled and compassionate Trauma Therapist dedicated to providing exceptional care within a holistic framework. I have 30 years of professional counseling experience and have implemented effective treatment for adolescents and adults enduring a variety of mental health and/or substance use disorders. As a Counselor in the healing profession, my emphasis is on furthering your Wellness and Growth. At Eagle Eye Counseling the focus is on a Keeness for Excellence through Healing, Stability and Empowerment. I am also certified as a Master Addictions Counselor and provide Clinical Supervision for both Mental Health Counselors and Addiction Counselors who are seeking licensure.
(704) 594-8230 View (704) 594-8230
Photo of Joey Hess, LCSW, CSTIP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joey Hess
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSTIP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
My experience includes treating intersecting and standalone issues related to depression, anxiety, PTSD/Trauma, end of life, substance use, major life transitions, and chronic health conditions.
Are you struggling to find help that's right for you? Are you facing difficult life transitions and unsure of how to proceed? Are you dealing with the burden of shame or guilt alone? Do you want a non-judgmental space to examine your relationship to substances? Are there behaviors you would like to change but unsure of where to start? I provide radically compassionate and accepting care to people with all life experiences and stories. I believe that a collaborative, safe, and strong relational connection is the foundation for providing a therapeutic space for clients to experience empowered growth and change.
My experience includes treating intersecting and standalone issues related to depression, anxiety, PTSD/Trauma, end of life, substance use, major life transitions, and chronic health conditions.
Are you struggling to find help that's right for you? Are you facing difficult life transitions and unsure of how to proceed? Are you dealing with the burden of shame or guilt alone? Do you want a non-judgmental space to examine your relationship to substances? Are there behaviors you would like to change but unsure of where to start? I provide radically compassionate and accepting care to people with all life experiences and stories. I believe that a collaborative, safe, and strong relational connection is the foundation for providing a therapeutic space for clients to experience empowered growth and change.
(704) 253-8718 View (704) 253-8718
Photo of Ruthie Schultz, MA, LCMHC-A, LCAS-A, Counselor
Ruthie Schultz
Counselor, MA, LCMHC-A, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28104  (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 Alexis Miller, MSW, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexis Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
I work primarily with adults who have experienced trauma, anxiety, depression, or substance use issues.
Welcome! I’m so glad you’re here. Whether you’re starting therapy for the first time, finding a new therapist, or beginning again, taking this step can be challenging. No matter where you are in your journey, I’m here to support you.
I work primarily with adults who have experienced trauma, anxiety, depression, or substance use issues.
Welcome! I’m so glad you’re here. Whether you’re starting therapy for the first time, finding a new therapist, or beginning again, taking this step can be challenging. No matter where you are in your journey, I’m here to support you.
(980) 291-6549 View (980) 291-6549
Photo of Caroline Ann Cotto - Caroline Cotto/Progress to Peace, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, CCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caroline Cotto/Progress to Peace
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28105
I specialize in substance use disorder, depression and anxiety, trauma, occupational stress and conflict, aging, couples/partner counseling, adolescents, parenting and family therapy.
Seeking a counselor can be hard, even scary. I provide a welcoming place that is quiet, safe and relaxing. This is your time to decide what you most want, what changes you can make, and how to do it. At your initial visit you get to tell your story and discuss your goals. Within our first meeting we create a plan for how to make the changes you want. There's no rush and no pressure. I believe everyone has the power to get the life they want. It will take some work, and you now have a partner to guide you there.
I specialize in substance use disorder, depression and anxiety, trauma, occupational stress and conflict, aging, couples/partner counseling, adolescents, parenting and family therapy.
Seeking a counselor can be hard, even scary. I provide a welcoming place that is quiet, safe and relaxing. This is your time to decide what you most want, what changes you can make, and how to do it. At your initial visit you get to tell your story and discuss your goals. Within our first meeting we create a plan for how to make the changes you want. There's no rush and no pressure. I believe everyone has the power to get the life they want. It will take some work, and you now have a partner to guide you there.
(704) 594-8047 View (704) 594-8047
Photo of Kennedy Glass, MSW, LCSWA, LCASA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kennedy Glass
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA, LCASA
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28105
I encompass experience within various mental health, substance use, & social work settings.
Finding a good therapist is no easy task, particularly online where your options seem as endless as your local Chick-fil-A line. The search can be exhausting, especially when you’re just trying to find someone who will listen to you, see you, understand you, and most importantly get you. It’s important to know, you cannot pour from an empty cup. Life happens and we put ourselves on the backburner. Letting yourself be vulnerable with a stranger is terrifying and I am proud of you for taking the first step in finding someone. I have a drive and passion for helping people become their best selves.
I encompass experience within various mental health, substance use, & social work settings.
Finding a good therapist is no easy task, particularly online where your options seem as endless as your local Chick-fil-A line. The search can be exhausting, especially when you’re just trying to find someone who will listen to you, see you, understand you, and most importantly get you. It’s important to know, you cannot pour from an empty cup. Life happens and we put ourselves on the backburner. Letting yourself be vulnerable with a stranger is terrifying and I am proud of you for taking the first step in finding someone. I have a drive and passion for helping people become their best selves.
(980) 350-8435 View (980) 350-8435
Photo of Boyce L Smith, MA, LCMHCA, LCAS, CCS, NCC, Counselor
Boyce L Smith
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, LCAS, CCS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
Areas of expertise include: substance use, trauma, mood/anxiety concerns, relationship issues, life changes/adjustments, grief/loss, non-monogamous and polyamorous couples, gender and sexual identity, LGBTQI+ individuals, men's issues, anger management, depression, and working with individual, couples, families.
Taking the step to seek out counseling takes tremendous courage and vulnerability. My approach in counseling is holistic and takes into account the whole body, mind, and spirit. As a therapist I treat individuals, couples, and families regardless of race, age, sexuality, gender, religion, or ethnicity. Both professionally and personally, I believe that we all have what is necessary for true growth and change. Join me on the journey of exploring your needs and goals to help you accomplish a desired outcome.
Areas of expertise include: substance use, trauma, mood/anxiety concerns, relationship issues, life changes/adjustments, grief/loss, non-monogamous and polyamorous couples, gender and sexual identity, LGBTQI+ individuals, men's issues, anger management, depression, and working with individual, couples, families.
Taking the step to seek out counseling takes tremendous courage and vulnerability. My approach in counseling is holistic and takes into account the whole body, mind, and spirit. As a therapist I treat individuals, couples, and families regardless of race, age, sexuality, gender, religion, or ethnicity. Both professionally and personally, I believe that we all have what is necessary for true growth and change. Join me on the journey of exploring your needs and goals to help you accomplish a desired outcome.
(704) 703-3298 View (704) 703-3298
Photo of Frank Marazzo, LCMHC-A
Frank Marazzo
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105  (Online Only)
I work especially well with people who have ADHD, depression, anxiety, and substance use / abuse, but am not limited to just those areas.
I enjoy working with people who are ready to make some necessary changes in life but are unsure of where to start. I am passionate about helping individuals find their strengths and increase their confidence in themselves. My philosophy is that we all have innate value and skills that often are overlooked, but, when fully utilized, can put us on a path to be our best and happiest selves. I use a combination of a few theories, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Existential Theory, & Solution Focused.
I work especially well with people who have ADHD, depression, anxiety, and substance use / abuse, but am not limited to just those areas.
I enjoy working with people who are ready to make some necessary changes in life but are unsure of where to start. I am passionate about helping individuals find their strengths and increase their confidence in themselves. My philosophy is that we all have innate value and skills that often are overlooked, but, when fully utilized, can put us on a path to be our best and happiest selves. I use a combination of a few theories, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Existential Theory, & Solution Focused.
(980) 983-0489 View (980) 983-0489
Photo of Steve Hanna - Steve Hanna Interventions, LCMHC, LCAS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Steve Hanna Interventions
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105  (Online Only)
Steve is a mature and seasoned professional with 26 years experience in both residential and outpatient therapy. He is both pragmatic and compassionate combining evidenced based practices, lifestyle changes,12 step recovery and experiential therapies to empower clients with Substance Use and Mental Health issues in their healing and wellness.
Steve is a mature and seasoned professional with 26 years experience in both residential and outpatient therapy. He is both pragmatic and compassionate combining evidenced based practices, lifestyle changes,12 step recovery and experiential therapies to empower clients with Substance Use and Mental Health issues in their healing and wellness.
(704) 966-7288 View (704) 966-7288
Photo of Connie Belcher, LMHC-FL, LCMHC, MBA, CCTP
Connie Belcher
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LMHC-FL, LCMHC, MBA, CCTP
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28105  (Online Only)
I started this journey of helping others in 2004 when I decided to make Mental Health a career choice. After earning a master's degree, I accepted my first paid position at Phoenix House of Brandon, FL and fell deeper in love with helping people emerge from whatever darkness they were experiencing in their lives. My passion is counseling those who struggle with various addictive behaviors ( substance use, problem gambling, etc.) and co-occurring lifestyle issues. I have found strength-based and empathic approaches encourage clients to discover their capabilities for living a healthy, positive lifestyle. I also enjoy creating programs and policies/procedures.
I started this journey of helping others in 2004 when I decided to make Mental Health a career choice. After earning a master's degree, I accepted my first paid position at Phoenix House of Brandon, FL and fell deeper in love with helping people emerge from whatever darkness they were experiencing in their lives. My passion is counseling those who struggle with various addictive behaviors ( substance use, problem gambling, etc.) and co-occurring lifestyle issues. I have found strength-based and empathic approaches encourage clients to discover their capabilities for living a healthy, positive lifestyle. I also enjoy creating programs and policies/procedures.
(813) 670-7234 View (813) 670-7234
Photo of Michael Clark-Borenstein - Bright View Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bright View Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
Our trained therapist can provide help with, but not limited to: ADHD, art therapy, athletes, anxiety, autism, depression, exposure therapy, grief, marriage and family, substance use, trauma, and women's health.
At Bright View Counseling we are breaking the traditional mold of talk therapy and counseling and bringing a new, brighter idea of what therapy could and should look like with our ‘Therapy With A Twist!’ approach. Our therapy approach is holistic, humanistic, and person-focused. We bring the power of the natural world into the therapeutic process. We take walks outside, participate in outdoor activities with clients, and integrate activities and games. We also get a helping paw from our office dog, Charlotte, who comes into sessions to provide a furry friend to hug, pet, and receive emotional support from.
Our trained therapist can provide help with, but not limited to: ADHD, art therapy, athletes, anxiety, autism, depression, exposure therapy, grief, marriage and family, substance use, trauma, and women's health.
At Bright View Counseling we are breaking the traditional mold of talk therapy and counseling and bringing a new, brighter idea of what therapy could and should look like with our ‘Therapy With A Twist!’ approach. Our therapy approach is holistic, humanistic, and person-focused. We bring the power of the natural world into the therapeutic process. We take walks outside, participate in outdoor activities with clients, and integrate activities and games. We also get a helping paw from our office dog, Charlotte, who comes into sessions to provide a furry friend to hug, pet, and receive emotional support from.
(980) 549-3989 View (980) 549-3989
Photo of Lauren Ivey, MA, LCAS, CCTP
Lauren Ivey
MA, LCAS, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
Waitlist for new clients
I have 6+ years of experience in treating substance use and concurrent mental health concerns including anxiety, depression, trauma, codependency, low self-esteem, internal conflict, stress management, and relapse prevention.
I am a Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist in NC with an additional specialization in the clinical treatment of trauma. I graduated from Liberty University with a Master’s degree in Applied and Developmental Psychology. I implement a strength-based and person-centered approach and firmly believe that every individual has the capacity for growth and change. I'm passionate about helping clients identify strengths, establish healthy coping strategies, increase self-awareness, and ultimately work toward long-term healing and recovery.
I have 6+ years of experience in treating substance use and concurrent mental health concerns including anxiety, depression, trauma, codependency, low self-esteem, internal conflict, stress management, and relapse prevention.
I am a Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist in NC with an additional specialization in the clinical treatment of trauma. I graduated from Liberty University with a Master’s degree in Applied and Developmental Psychology. I implement a strength-based and person-centered approach and firmly believe that every individual has the capacity for growth and change. I'm passionate about helping clients identify strengths, establish healthy coping strategies, increase self-awareness, and ultimately work toward long-term healing and recovery.
(704) 741-8281 View (704) 741-8281
Photo of Alisha Hall, LCMHCA, LCASA, Counselor
Alisha Hall
Counselor, LCMHCA, LCASA
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28105
I work in private practice setting focusing on mental health and substance use.
I use a collaborative approach of therapy. I find this method to be very effective in the treatment of my clients. My clients and I work together to achieve the desired goal, which has been proven to empower the individual. I ensure therapy is conducted in a supportive, safe, and non-judgmental environment. I believe everyone is capable of change and can overcome any life obstacle.
I work in private practice setting focusing on mental health and substance use.
I use a collaborative approach of therapy. I find this method to be very effective in the treatment of my clients. My clients and I work together to achieve the desired goal, which has been proven to empower the individual. I ensure therapy is conducted in a supportive, safe, and non-judgmental environment. I believe everyone is capable of change and can overcome any life obstacle.
(704) 237-6632 View (704) 237-6632
Photo of Johanna Bennett, LCAS, LCMHC, LPC, CCS, Counselor
Johanna Bennett
Counselor, LCAS, LCMHC, LPC, CCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105  (Online Only)
I have worked for 10 years with people suffering from Substance Use Disorder and/or co-occurring mental health disorders.
How many times have you told yourself, 'this year it will be different' abut you might find yourself in the same loop of unhappiness and low motivation to change anything. You give and give, trying to make everyone happy around you, and it sometimes works and sometimes not. Now you feel drained, exhausted and a big depressing feeling has settled in your chest, making it hard to breathe. There is a way out! Whatever coping mechanism you have tried has not worked, and it might have become a problem of its own ( Substance Use). It is time to try something different! It is time to give yourself a chance on happiness!
I have worked for 10 years with people suffering from Substance Use Disorder and/or co-occurring mental health disorders.
How many times have you told yourself, 'this year it will be different' abut you might find yourself in the same loop of unhappiness and low motivation to change anything. You give and give, trying to make everyone happy around you, and it sometimes works and sometimes not. Now you feel drained, exhausted and a big depressing feeling has settled in your chest, making it hard to breathe. There is a way out! Whatever coping mechanism you have tried has not worked, and it might have become a problem of its own ( Substance Use). It is time to try something different! It is time to give yourself a chance on happiness!
(704) 275-6169 View (704) 275-6169
Photo of Kyle Gerard Slough - At Ease Therapy, LMHC, LCMHC, LCAS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
At Ease Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, LCMHC, LCAS, LPC
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28104
Waitlist for new clients
Are you feeling overwhelmed and stressed? I can help you sort through the issues causing your stress so you can have a calmer frame of mind. My mission is to enable you to find balance and peace in your life. I provide my clients the tools they need to overcome challenges with their careers, relationships and the transition from military to civilian life. I also have training working with people who have issues with attention difficulties and alcohol/ substance use.
Are you feeling overwhelmed and stressed? I can help you sort through the issues causing your stress so you can have a calmer frame of mind. My mission is to enable you to find balance and peace in your life. I provide my clients the tools they need to overcome challenges with their careers, relationships and the transition from military to civilian life. I also have training working with people who have issues with attention difficulties and alcohol/ substance use.
(215) 600-4825 View (215) 600-4825
Photo of Chelsea Brianne Carman, MA
Chelsea Brianne Carman
MA
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28105  (Online Only)
Throughout my career (so far) I have witnessed many individuals struggle and wrestle with their mental health and their faith. There is a stigma that rests within the church and mental health that is still present today so many Christians are faced with masking their mental health. I am here to say that this should not be. You can struggle with mental health concerns and remain a believer and child of God. I am here to meet you where you are at and work through your symptoms, one step at a time. I also have found that people forego their mental health due to financial strains. You don't have to do that with me. Give me a call.
Throughout my career (so far) I have witnessed many individuals struggle and wrestle with their mental health and their faith. There is a stigma that rests within the church and mental health that is still present today so many Christians are faced with masking their mental health. I am here to say that this should not be. You can struggle with mental health concerns and remain a believer and child of God. I am here to meet you where you are at and work through your symptoms, one step at a time. I also have found that people forego their mental health due to financial strains. You don't have to do that with me. Give me a call.
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Photo of Amy L Sanderson, MA, LPC, LCAS, CCS, NCC
Amy L Sanderson
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LPC, LCAS, CCS, NCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or sad? You are brave to reach out for help. I'm here to support you in moving forward. I truly believe in the therapeutic process and am continually inspired by the progress my clients achieve to create more fulfilling and joyful lives. In addition to office appointments, I offer video counseling, where we communicate through live video in the privacy of your own home. I also offer walk and talk counseling through peaceful, wooded trails. Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy is an additional modality I use.
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or sad? You are brave to reach out for help. I'm here to support you in moving forward. I truly believe in the therapeutic process and am continually inspired by the progress my clients achieve to create more fulfilling and joyful lives. In addition to office appointments, I offer video counseling, where we communicate through live video in the privacy of your own home. I also offer walk and talk counseling through peaceful, wooded trails. Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy is an additional modality I use.
(980) 400-9377 View (980) 400-9377
Photo of Jessica Beyer - La Vida Counseling, PLLC, LCMHCS, LCAS, Licensed Professional Counselor
La Vida Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHCS, LCAS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
Our team of therapists are ready to help for individual or couples counseling! We offer in person and virtual session! Specialties include but not limited to: trauma, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, behavioral problems and transitions into college. Please visit our website at www.lavidacounseling.com for more details about our therapists and services we offer. We offer counseling services and Immigration Evaluations to clients from age 5 years-Adult and video sessions and in person sessions. ¡Se habla Español!
Our team of therapists are ready to help for individual or couples counseling! We offer in person and virtual session! Specialties include but not limited to: trauma, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, behavioral problems and transitions into college. Please visit our website at www.lavidacounseling.com for more details about our therapists and services we offer. We offer counseling services and Immigration Evaluations to clients from age 5 years-Adult and video sessions and in person sessions. ¡Se habla Español!
(704) 935-4208 View (704) 935-4208
Photo of Celeste Schmidt, MS, LCMHC, LCAS, CCTP, Counselor
Celeste Schmidt
Counselor, MS, LCMHC, LCAS, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
Do you often feel overwhelmed by the world we currently live in? Do you have trouble regulating your emotions, feeling motivated, or feel "stuck" because of things that have happened to you in the past? I am trained in DBT and EMDR and work with individuals who are struggling with mood disorders, life transitions, and past trauma. I would love the opportunity to work alongside you on your healing journey. I want to give you the safe space needed to process what's going on and provide skills to help you become more adaptive.
Do you often feel overwhelmed by the world we currently live in? Do you have trouble regulating your emotions, feeling motivated, or feel "stuck" because of things that have happened to you in the past? I am trained in DBT and EMDR and work with individuals who are struggling with mood disorders, life transitions, and past trauma. I would love the opportunity to work alongside you on your healing journey. I want to give you the safe space needed to process what's going on and provide skills to help you become more adaptive.
(704) 327-0429 View (704) 327-0429
1
Substance Use Therapists

How do substance and drug recovery or rehabilitation programs work?

In inpatient programs, individuals live in a facility with other clients in recovery; in outpatient programs, individuals reside at home. These facilities are staffed with healthcare professionals including physicians, nurses, psychologists, counselors, and psychotherapists. Staff often also includes people who have recovered themselves, serving as mentors and guides. These programs may use abstinence, harm reduction, detoxification, psychotherapy, and other methods.

How do 12-step programs combined with psychotherapy work?

Members of 12-step programs help each other reach abstinence and work to maintain it. These programs promote complete change in the individual’s emotional, mental, physical, and even spiritual perspectives. Some programs require that new members attend 90 meetings in 90 days. Many people do attend these programs in conjunction with their work in psychotherapy; the combination of therapy along with 12-step can be extremely effective.

How does harm reduction combined with psychotherapy work?

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, harm reduction prevents death, injury, disease, overdose, and substance misuse. People who choose harm reduction for substance use reduce the amount of drugs they consume. It is not abstinence-based like a 12-step program, but combining harm reduction with psychotherapy proves to be effective for many people.

Are there specific medications for substance and drug use?

There are medications approved to treat substance use disorder—such as buprenorphine, methadone, naltrexone, and acamprosate. These medications do help people cope with substance use as well as avoid the problem of relapse. Naltrexone can help reduce cravings, methadone is an opioid medication used to treat severe pain, and acamprosate may help ease symptoms like poor sleep and anxious feelings.